ATTORNEY NEWSLETTER
Federal Government Moves Against Elder Abuse
The federal government is taking new steps against the epidemic of elder abuse in this country. President Trump recently signed into law the Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act which establishes new requirements for the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate and prosecute elder abuse crimes and enforce elder abuse laws. The elder abuse attorneys at Evans Law Firm, represent elder abuse victims including those who have been financially abused by banks, family members, insurance agents, and others and those who have suffered physical elder abuse in nursing homes or other care facilities or from caregivers at home. If you or an elder you know may be the victim of financial or physical elder abuse in San Mateo County or elsewhere in California, call Evans Law Firm, Inc. today at 415-441-8669. We handle cases in California.
Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act
Under the new law, the DOJ must:
- Designate Elder Justice Coordinators in federal judicial districts and at DOJ
- Implement comprehensive training for FBI agents; and
- Establish a working group to provide policy advice.
It remains to be seen what effect this federal initiative will have on the elder abuse epidemic in this country. Fortunately, California leads the country in State law protections and remedies for victims of elder abuse. Elder Abuse attorneys at Evans Law Firm Inc. recommend you always notify law enforcement of suspected abuse but also pursue all civil remedies. Law enforcement agencies may obtain restitution for your loss but California law provides additional damages awards and mandatory attorney’s fees for victims. If you or a loved one is a victim of elder abuse here in San Mateo County or elsewhere in California call the Evans Law Firm elder abuse attorneys today at 415-441-8669.
The Bottom Line
Elder abuse comes in all forms, in all numbers, and from all corners. Truly, it can happen to anybody especially if they are isolated, trusting or naïve or if they suffer from cognitive impairment and dependency that often accompany old age. If you are an elder or have an elderly loved one, take the necessary steps for prevention. Check bank statements and be active in their lives. Do background checks on caregivers and advisors. Keep valuables, important papers and credit cards locked up. Keep an eye on expenditures and by all means don’t give anyone a Power of Attorney over your or the senior’s affairs unless you absolutely know you can trust the person appointed. Staying involved and proactive are the best ways to prevent financial elder abuse of someone you love.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one been the victim of financial elder abuse in San Mateo County, or in any California county, contact the Evans Law Firm financial elder abuse attorneys at (415) 441-8669. Our attorneys have experience with complex financial contracts and large insurance companies. We can help guide your case through a jury trial or toward an equitable settlement. We handle cases involving physical and financial elder abuse, qui tam and whistleblower law, nursing home abuse, whole life insurance and universal life insurance, and indexed, variable, and fixed annuities.
