San Diego Elder Abuse Lawyer

Elder abuse is a bigger problem than you realize.

Elder abuse happens more often than we might realize. In fact, only one in five cases is actually believed to be reported and more than two-thirds of elder abuse cases involve family members. If you suspect a case of elder abuse, please don’t hesitate to call an experienced San Diego elder abuse attorney at the Law Offices of Elliott N. Kanter. We’ll handle the case with respect, dignity, and a true desire to see that justice is served.

Protect your rights. Call the Law Offices of Elliott N. Kanter at 619-330-5881 for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.

Elder abuse can take many forms.

Elder abuse is the mistreatment of an elderly person. Because family members or close friends are often involved, elder abuse is often difficult to spot and prosecute. Elder abuse manifests in many forms:

Only one in five cases of elder abuse is actually believed to be reported.

• Financial abuse. Seniors may trust a family member or friend to oversee their assets. In turn, this trusted individual may abuse that trust and mismanage money, property, or other assets. Signs of financial abuse may include:
  • Unusual bank activity, such as large, unexplained withdrawals, frequent transfers between accounts, or frequent ATM withdrawals.
  • Unpaid bills, eviction notices, or discontinued utility services.
  • Improbable explanations given about an elder adult’s finances by a relative or caregiver.
  • A change in spending patterns (often with a new “best friend” in the background).

• Physical abuse. This can include bruises, lacerations, swelling, or other visual signs like limping. Signs of physical abuse may include:
  • Unexplained injuries.
  • Bruises, scratches, or other injuries.
  • Incorrect use of a physical restraint or medication.

• Emotional abuse. This can include verbal assaults, threats, humiliation, or isolation. Even if it’s carried out by a family member or friends, social services or the police should be called. Signs of emotional abuse may include:
  • The elderly person withdraws physically and/or emotionally.
  • The elderly person is suddenly restricted on whom they can see.
  • The elderly person becomes confused or extremely forgetful.

• Neglect. If a senior is lacking basic needs—food, shelter, medical care, personal hygiene products, or necessary medicine—the caretaker may be accused of neglect. Signs of physical neglect may include:
  • Poor hygiene, dirty, or torn clothes.
  • Lack of appropriate shelter, heating, or air-conditioning.
  • Untreated medical conditions.
  • Malnourishment or dehydration.

How to prevent elder abuse.

Knowing the warning signs of abuse is the first step towards protecting elders. Keep a close eye on family, friends, and neighbors. If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to speak up. It’s better to catch the situation early than fear being wrong.

When you need to call an experienced San Diego elder abuse lawyer.

If you have a concern about a loved one or family member, don’t hesitate in giving us a call. The Law Offices of Elliott N. Kanter have over 30 years of experience representing our clients’ best interests. We’ll do our best to rectify the situation. Give us a call today at 619-330-5881 for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. Tell us your story, and we’ll get started right away.