Georgia Elder Abuse Attorney

What is Considered Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse refers to any intentional or negligent act that causes harm—or poses a risk of harm—to an older adult. Abuse can occur in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, memory care units, private homes, or anywhere a senior relies on another person for care.

Common Forms of Elder Abuse in Georgia

• Physical Abuse: Hitting, pushing, restraining, improper handling, or unnecessary roughness
• Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Yelling, threats, humiliation, isolation, or intimidation
• Neglect: Failure to provide adequate food, water, hygiene, medication, medical care, or supervision
• Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact, exposure, or exploitation
• Financial Exploitation: Stealing money, forging checks, unauthorized use of accounts, or coercing financial decisions
• Abandonment: Leaving a senior without necessary care or supervision
• Medication Mismanagement: Overmedicating, under-medicating, or administering drugs incorrectly

Warning Signs of Elder Abuse

• Unexplained bruises, fractures, or injuries
• Sudden changes in behavior, fearfulness, or withdrawal
• Poor hygiene, weight loss, or dehydration
• Bedsores (pressure ulcers)
• Unpaid bills or missing financial documents
• STDs or genital injuries (in cases of sexual abuse)
• Staff refusing to allow private visits

If you notice any of these signs, it is critical to take them seriously. Early intervention can protect your loved one from further harm.

Who is Liable for Elder Abuse?

In Georgia, multiple parties may be held legally responsible for elder abuse or neglect, depending on how the harm occurred.

Potentially Liable Parties Include:

• Nursing Homes & Assisted Living Facilities
• Doctors, Nurses, and Medical Staff
• Caretakers and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)
• Home Health Agencies
• Care Facility Administrators
• Other Residents or Third Parties (in cases of assault)
• Facility Owners or Parent Corporations

Facilities can be held liable when abuse occurs due to:

• Understaffing
• Inadequate training
• Failure to supervise residents
• Medication mistakes
• Poor hiring practices
• Unsanitary or unsafe conditions
• Lack of security or monitoring

Our Georgia elder abuse attorney at McHugh Fuller Law Group can investigate the circumstances, identify the responsible parties, and pursue full compensation on your family’s behalf.

Georgia Elder Abuse Laws

Georgia has strong state and federal laws designed to protect elderly residents from mistreatment.

Key Georgia Laws Include:

• Georgia Protection of Elder Persons Act (O.C.G.A. § 30-5-1): Defines elder abuse and outlines mandatory reporting requirements.
• Georgia Long-Term Care Facility Regulations: Establish standards for nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
• Adult Protective Services (APS) Guidelines: Govern the investigation of suspected abuse.
• Federal Nursing Home Reform Act (NHRA): Protects residents’ rights to proper care and safety.

Under Georgia law, elder abuse is a crime—and victims and families may also pursue civil claims for compensation. Civil lawsuits can help cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, relocation costs, wrongful death damages, and more.

What to Do If Your Elderly Loved One is Being Abused

If you suspect elder abuse, taking quick and intentional steps can help protect your loved one and preserve important evidence.

1. Ensure Immediate Safety

If the situation is dangerous, call 911. Otherwise, remove your loved one from the harmful environment if possible.

2. Document Everything

Collect:

• Photos of injuries or unsafe conditions
• Medical records
• Medication logs
• Billing or financial documents
• Witness statements

3. Report the Abuse

In Georgia, you can report abuse to:

• Adult Protective Services (APS)
• Local law enforcement
• Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH)

4. Contact a Georgia Elder Abuse Lawyer

An attorney can help investigate the facility, gather evidence, and build a strong legal case. At McHugh Fuller Law Group, we handle all communication with the facility, insurance companies, and investigators—so you can focus on your loved one’s well-being.

Elder Abuse Claim FAQs

How do I prove elder abuse?

Evidence may include medical records, photographs, witness testimony, facility logs, surveillance footage, and expert evaluations. Our attorneys gather and preserve all available evidence.

How long do I have to file an elder abuse claim in Georgia?

Georgia’s statute of limitations for elder abuse varies depending on the type of claim, but many cases must be filed within two years. It’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I file a claim if my loved one has passed away?

Yes. If abuse or neglect contributed to their death, you may pursue a wrongful death claim against the facility or caregivers.

What compensation is available?

Victims and families may recover damages for:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disability or disfigurement
• Relocation or caregiving costs
• Wrongful death damages (if applicable)

Do I have to pay up front for an attorney?

No. McHugh Fuller Law Group handles elder abuse cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win.

Call a Georgia Elder Abuse Lawyer Today

Your loved one deserves to feel safe, respected, and cared for. If you suspect abuse or neglect, you don’t have to face this alone. The compassionate legal team at McHugh Fuller Law Group is ready to fight for justice and accountability.

Contact us today for a free consultation.