Los Angeles Elder Abuse Lawyer
Elder abuse cases require swift, experienced legal representation. We advocate for victims seeking justice and defend those facing serious allegations under California law. Protect your rights, reputation, and future today.
Schedule a confidential consultation now.
What Is Elder Abuse Under California Law
Under California law, elder abuse refers to acts or omissions that cause harm or risk of harm to individuals aged 65 or older. These cases are governed primarily by the California Welfare and Institutions Code §§ 15600–15675 and may also involve criminal statutes under the Penal Code. Elder abuse can occur in private homes, nursing facilities, assisted living centers, or by caregivers, family members, medical professionals, or financial advisors.
Both intentional acts and negligent failures to act can qualify as elder abuse, and cases may be pursued through criminal charges, civil lawsuits, or both.
Types of Elder Abuse
- Physical abuse, including hitting, pushing, restraining, or improper use of medication
- Emotional or psychological abuse, such as threats, intimidation, humiliation, or isolation
- Sexual abuse involving non-consensual sexual contact or exploitation
- Financial elder abuse, including fraud, theft, coercion, or misuse of assets
- Neglect, including failure to provide food, hygiene, medical care, or safe living conditions
- Abandonment by a caregiver or responsible party
Penalties for Elder Abuse in California
Elder abuse penalties depend on the type of abuse, the severity of harm, and whether the conduct was intentional or negligent. Criminal elder abuse may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
Convictions can result in jail or prison time, substantial fines, probation, restraining orders, and mandatory restitution. In civil elder abuse cases, defendants may face compensatory damages, pain and suffering damages, attorney’s fees, and in severe cases, punitive damages. Allegations alone can lead to loss of employment, professional licenses, and long-term reputational harm.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Both Pursuit and Defense
Elder abuse cases require deep knowledge of overlapping civil and criminal laws, medical evidence, financial records, and witness testimony. For victims and families, an attorney ensures evidence is preserved, claims are properly filed, and responsible parties are held accountable. For those accused, immediate legal representation is critical to protect constitutional rights, prevent misstatements, and challenge exaggerated or false claims.
Many elder abuse cases involve misunderstandings, family disputes, or caregiving decisions that are mischaracterized as criminal conduct. Skilled legal counsel can make the difference between dismissal, settlement, or devastating penalties.
Common defense strategies may include:
- Lack of intent or absence of willful misconduct
- False or exaggerated allegations motivated by family conflict or financial disputes
- Insufficient evidence of harm or causation
- Consent or lawful authority over financial or medical decisions
Why You Should Choose Us
Our firm has extensive experience handling elder abuse cases from both sides, giving us a strategic advantage whether we are pursuing justice or mounting a defense. We approach every case with meticulous preparation, discretion, and respect for the sensitive nature of elder-related allegations.
Our attorneys work closely with medical experts, financial professionals, and investigators to build strong, fact-based cases. Clients choose us because we communicate clearly, act quickly, and fight relentlessly to achieve the best possible outcome.
Work with expert lawyers
Unlike many law offices that assign client cases to young associates, attorney Ardalon Fakhimi will personally handle all significant aspects of your case from start to finish, including all settlement discussions, negotiations, and the trial. He will personally answer all of your questions and navigate you through every stage of your case. We never use inexperienced associates who are just learning the practice of DUI law and criminal law. Similarly, we are NOT a high volume law office. Rather, we emphasize a very personalized attorney-client relationship where our clients are in continuous contact with their DUI and criminal lawyer; not their lawyer’s assistant. Finally, we are a detail-oriented law office that meticulously strategizes every case. That means no stone remains unturned during the course of our representation and through the final disposition of your case.
We serve clients from Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Torrance, for Domestic Violence, Petty Thefts, DUI Under-21 Cases.
Areas We Serve:
We defend our clients throughout California, including: Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Irvine, Inland Empire, Ventura, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can elder abuse be both a criminal and civil case?
Yes. A single incident can lead to criminal prosecution by the state and a separate civil lawsuit seeking financial compensation.
Who can report or file an elder abuse claim in California?
Elder abuse can be reported by the victim, family members, caregivers, medical professionals, or mandated reporters. Civil claims may be filed by the elder, a legal representative, or the estate.
What should I do if I’m falsely accused of elder abuse?
Do not speak to investigators or family members about the allegations without a lawyer. Early legal representation is essential to protect your rights and prevent escalation.
Final thought
Elder abuse cases move fast and carry life-changing consequences. Whether you are fighting for the protection of an elderly loved one or defending yourself against serious allegations, time matters. Our experienced elder abuse attorneys are ready to listen, evaluate your case, and take decisive legal action.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us protect what matters most.