Port St. Lucie Nursing Home Abuse Attorney
Standing Up for the Rights of Vulnerable Seniors
When you place a loved one in a nursing home, you trust that the facility will provide safe, attentive, and compassionate care. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Elder abuse and neglect in long-term care facilities have become an alarming issue throughout Florida, including here in Port St. Lucie.
At Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA, we focus on helping families pursue justice when nursing homes betray that trust. Our attorneys are committed to holding negligent caregivers and institutions accountable and fighting for the compensation victims and their families deserve.
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What Is Considered Nursing Home Abuse?
Nursing home abuse comes in many forms—some obvious, others harder to detect. Our firm handles a wide range of abuse and neglect cases, including:
Physical Abuse
This includes any form of intentional physical harm or the improper use of restraints. Victims may suffer from bruises, broken bones, burns, or even internal injuries. Signs can include:
- Unexplained cuts, welts, or bruising
- Fractures or sprains with no clear cause
- Fear of staff members or flinching when touched
Emotional and Psychological Abuse
Verbal threats, humiliation, and isolation can severely impact a resident's mental health. Indicators of emotional abuse often include:
- Sudden withdrawal or depression
- Mood swings or emotional outbursts
- Refusal to speak or engage in social activities
Neglect and Poor Care
Neglect occurs when a facility fails to meet a resident’s basic needs. This could involve failing to provide food, water, medication, or hygiene assistance. Common red flags include:
- Bedsores (pressure ulcers)
- Weight loss or signs of dehydration
- Dirty clothing or unsanitary living conditions
Financial Exploitation
Elderly residents are particularly vulnerable to financial abuse. Caregivers or facility staff may:
- Steal cash, jewelry, or personal belongings
- Use credit or debit cards without authorization
- Coerce residents into changing wills or power of attorney
Sexual Abuse
One of the most disturbing types of abuse, sexual assault in nursing homes is often committed against residents who cannot defend themselves or speak up. Symptoms might include:
- Unexplained injuries around private areas
- Changes in demeanor around certain individuals
- Diagnosed sexually transmitted infections
What Compensation Can Be Recovered in a Nursing Home Abuse Case?
The amount of compensation depends on the extent of the harm, the evidence available, and whether the abuse was part of a pattern of negligence. Settlements for nursing home abuse cases in Port St. Lucie often range from $100,000 to over $1 million.
You may be able to recover damages for:
Medical treatment and future care
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Out-of-pocket expenses
Wrongful death and funeral costs (in fatal cases)
Punitive damages in cases of gross misconduct
Our team works with medical experts and financial professionals to assess the full impact of the abuse and build a case for the maximum compensation available under Florida law.
Why Choose Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA?
Our firm is dedicated to standing up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. With decades of combined experience, we’ve successfully represented victims of personal injury and elder abuse throughout Florida’s Treasure Coast.
Here’s why families in Port St. Lucie trust us:
- Local Experience – We understand the courts, judges, and nursing home regulations in our community.
- Results-Driven Approach – We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which often leads to stronger settlements.
- Compassionate Representation – We handle every case with the sensitivity and dedication it deserves.
- No Upfront Fees – You pay nothing unless we win compensation for your family.
What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse
If you notice signs of abuse or neglect, it’s important to act quickly. Your response can prevent further harm and may save a life.
Here are the steps to take immediately:
Step 1
Ensure your loved one is safe—remove them from the facility if necessary.
Step 2
Report the abuse to the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF).
Step 3
Document injuries, conversations, and conditions with photos and notes.
Step 4
Contact a trusted nursing home abuse attorney in Port St. Lucie for legal guidance and investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do I have to file a claim in Florida?
Florida law typically gives you two years from the date the abuse was discovered to file a nursing home abuse lawsuit. Exceptions may apply depending on the situation, so consult an attorney right away to avoid missing important deadlines.
Can I file a claim on behalf of my loved one?
Yes. If your loved one is mentally incapacitated or has passed away due to abuse, a legal guardian, power of attorney, or personal representative of their estate may file a claim on their behalf.
Will my case go to court?
Most cases settle out of court, but we are fully prepared to take your case to trial if the nursing home refuses to take responsibility. Our trial-readiness often results in stronger settlements.
How much does it cost to hire your firm?
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we recover compensation for you.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
If you suspect that your loved one has been harmed by abuse or neglect in a Port St. Lucie nursing home, Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA is ready to help. We offer free, confidential consultations and are here to guide you through every step of the legal process.
Your family deserves justice. Let our experienced legal team help you secure it.
Call us today or fill out our online form to speak with a trusted Port St. Lucie nursing home abuse attorney.