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Harbor City Sexual Abuse of the Elderly Lawyers
Look to our Harbor City sexual abuse of the elderly attorneys for assistance today
Sexual abuse and assault is a crime. It’s an even more heinous crime when people prey upon the elderly. At Garcia & Artigliere, our Harbor City elder abuse lawyers help you hold the right people accountable and responsible when you or your loved one suffers sexual abuse at the hands of a more powerful person. Let us help you seek financial compensation for your injuries and losses – call us today.
Elder abuse attorney Stephen M. Garcia obtained $5.4 million dollars for an 87-year-old woman who was repeatedly sexually molested by the co-manager of a residential care facility. The co-manager had a long history of alleged sexual misconduct at the facility, but none of the incidents of elder abuse were reported to either Adult Protective Services or to the Department of Social Services. Upon discovery, the nursing home fired the co-manager and waited 8 days to report his actions to the police, giving him time to flee.
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What constitutes elder sexual abuse?
Elder sexual abuse refers to any non-consensual sexual activity or exploitation involving an elderly person. This form of abuse can take various forms, including but not limited to:
- Non-consensual sexual contact: Any unwanted touching, fondling, or sexual activity without the elder's consent.
- Sexual coercion: Forcing or pressuring an elderly person to engage in sexual activities against their will.
- Sexual exploitation: Taking advantage of an elder's vulnerability for sexual purposes, often involving financial or other forms of manipulation.
- Exposing an elder to pornography: Forcing an elder to view sexually explicit material without their consent.
- Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual comments, advances, or behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating environment for the elderly person.
- Rape or sexual assault: Any forced sexual penetration or assault on an elder.
It's important to note that elder sexual abuse is a serious violation of an individual's rights, and perpetrators can be held legally accountable. The Harbor City elder abuse attorneys at Garcia & Artigliere can help.
What are the signs of elder sexual abuse?
Identifying signs of elder sexual abuse can be challenging, as victims may be reluctant to report the abuse due to fear, shame, or cognitive impairments. However, some common signs that may indicate elder sexual abuse include:
- Unexplained injuries: Bruises, scratches, or other injuries in the genital or pelvic areas without a plausible explanation.
- Behavioral changes: Sudden changes in behavior, mood swings, withdrawal, or signs of depression and anxiety.
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Presence of STIs that cannot be explained by consensual sexual activity.
- Fear or avoidance: Fearfulness, agitation, or avoidance of specific individuals, especially caregivers or others in positions of trust.
- Changes in hygiene: Unexplained changes in personal hygiene, including refusal to bathe or groom.
- Trouble walking or sitting: Difficulty walking or sitting, particularly if there is no medical explanation.
- Sleep disturbances: Nightmares, insomnia, or other sleep disturbances.
- Unexplained financial transactions: Unexplained withdrawals, transfers, or changes in the elder's financial situation, which could be linked to sexual exploitation.
- Reluctance to be alone with caregiver: Expressing discomfort or fear of being alone with a specific caregiver or person.
- Changes in relationships: Changes in relationships with family members or friends, particularly if the elder becomes isolated or distant.
If you believe you or loved one has been sexually assaulted, it’s important to take action now. First, contact California’s Adult Protective Services, and then talk to a Harbor City lawyer experienced in elder sexual abuse.
Who is liable for my Harbor City elder sexual abuse claim?
Liability in elder sexual abuse cases can vary based on the specific circumstances and individuals involved. Potential parties that could be held liable for Harbor City elder sexual abuse may include:
- Caregivers or staff: If the abuse occurs in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or any other care institution, the caregivers, nurses, or staff responsible for the elder's well-being may be held liable.
- Facility owners or operators: The owners or operators of the facility where the abuse took place may be held responsible if they were aware of the abuse, or if there was negligence in preventing and addressing such incidents.
- Individual perpetrator: The person directly responsible for the sexual abuse, whether a caregiver, family member, or another individual, may be held personally liable for their actions.
- Third parties: In some cases, third parties, such as contractors, security personnel, or other residents, may be held liable if their actions or negligence contributed to the abuse.
- Employers: If the abuse was committed by an employee, the employer may be held vicariously liable for the actions of their employee, especially if the abuse occurred within the scope of employment.
It's important to consult with attorneys experienced in elder abuse cases to determine the specific parties liable for your claim. If you believe you or someone you know has been a victim of elder sexual abuse, consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and options for pursuing a claim.
What is the value of my Harbor City elder sexual abuse claim?
Determining the value of an elder sexual abuse claim can be complex and depends on various factors, including the extent of the abuse, the impact on the victim, and the circumstances surrounding the case. The following factors may all affect the value of your elder sexual abuse claim:
- Medical expenses: The cost of medical treatment, therapy, counseling, and other related healthcare expenses resulting from the abuse.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain, suffering, and trauma endured by your loved one.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Damages for the negative impact on the elder's quality of life and loss of enjoyment of daily activities.
- Loss of consortium: If applicable, compensation for the loss of companionship, support, or services provided by the abused elder.
- Punitive damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
- Duration and severity of abuse: The length and severity of the abuse may be considered when determining the overall value of the claim.
- Evidence and documentation: The strength of evidence, such as medical records, eyewitness accounts, and any other documentation supporting the abuse claim, can impact its value.
Talk to a skilled attorney with experience in elder abuse cases to assess the specific details of your situation and provide a more accurate estimate of the potential value of your claim. We can help you navigate the legal process and advocate for the compensation you deserve.
Do you have a Harbor City elder sexual abuse attorney near me?
Garcia & Artigliere has offices at 2029 Century Park East, Suite 400, in Los Angeles. We’re located between Constellation Boulevard and W. Olympic Boulevard. We can also arrange video calls or off-site visits if you are unable to travel due to your condition.
Harbor City elder sexual abuse lawyers with experience
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, it's essential to take action to protect the rights and well-being of the victim. At Garcia & Artigliere, our elder sexual abuse attorneys will act as strong advocates for your rights, seeking justice and compensation for the physical and emotional harm caused by the abuse. We will guide you through the legal process and represent your best interests. Call our offices or contact us today to set up a free consultation with a skilled lawyer. Garcia & Artigliere has offices in Long Beach and Los Angeles and serve clients throughout California.