Skip to Content
Reach Out Today 803-599-2207
Top
Elder Abuse & Neglect

Columbia Elder Abuse Attorney

Helping Elderly Residents Suffering from Elder Abuse in Columbia, SC

When your elderly loved one has been mistreated, neglected, or abused—whether in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or private care setting—you need a trusted legal advocate on your side. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our experienced Columbia elder abuse lawyers are committed to holding wrongdoers accountable and securing justice for vulnerable seniors and their families.

Elder abuse is not only morally reprehensible—it is also a serious violation of South Carolina law. If you suspect mistreatment, don’t wait. Our team is here to investigate your concerns, protect your loved one, and pursue full compensation on their behalf.

Contact us today at (803) 599-2207 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our Columbia elder abuse attorneys.

What is Considered Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse refers to any intentional or negligent act that causes harm—or creates a risk of harm—to an older adult. This abuse can occur in various settings, including nursing homes, long-term care facilities, hospitals, or even in the victim's own home under the care of a family member or hired aide.

South Carolina law provides specific protections for elderly individuals, defined generally as persons aged 60 or older. Elder abuse can take many forms, and not all signs are immediately visible. Understanding what qualifies as abuse or neglect is crucial for identifying and stopping it.

Elder abuse may be:

  • Physical
  • Emotional or psychological
  • Financial exploitation
  • Sexual abuse
  • Neglect or abandonment

No elderly person should endure abuse. If you believe your loved one is a victim, a skilled Columbia elder abuse lawyer at Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC can help you take swift and appropriate legal action.

Who is Liable for Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse liability can extend to various individuals or entities, depending on the nature of the abuse. Those who may be held accountable include:

  • Nursing home or assisted living facility staff
  • Facility administrators or owners
  • Home health aides or caregivers
  • Family members or legal guardians
  • Financial advisors or fiduciaries
  • Third-party contractors or medical providers

South Carolina law allows victims and their families to pursue civil lawsuits against responsible parties for damages, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages.

What to Do If Your Elderly Loved One is Being Abused

If you suspect elder abuse, taking swift action is critical to protect your loved one and preserve evidence for a potential legal claim. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Ensure Immediate Safety: If your loved one is in immediate danger, call 911 or remove them from the unsafe environment.
  2. Document Everything: Take notes, photographs, and gather any evidence, such as medical records, financial statements, or witness contact information.
  3. Report the Abuse: Contact South Carolina’s Department of Social Services Adult Protective Services (APS) to file a formal complaint.
  4. Consult a Columbia Elder Abuse Attorney: An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help you file a civil claim, and advocate for your loved one’s rights.

At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we treat every case with compassion and urgency, ensuring your loved one is protected while aggressively pursuing justice.

Columbia Elder Abuse Claim FAQs

How do I prove elder abuse in South Carolina?

Proof often includes medical records, eyewitness testimony, photographs of injuries, financial documentation, and expert witness analysis. Your attorney will help gather and present the strongest evidence.

Can I sue a nursing home for elder neglect?

Yes. If a nursing home fails to meet the standard of care required by South Carolina law, it can be held liable for neglect or abuse that occurs on its premises.

What compensation is available for elder abuse victims?

Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and punitive damages if the abuse was especially egregious.

Is there a time limit for filing an elder abuse claim in Columbia?

Yes. South Carolina’s statute of limitations generally allows three years from the date of discovery to file a personal injury or abuse claim. Prompt action is essential to avoid losing your right to compensation.

What if my loved one passed away due to elder abuse?

You may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the responsible parties. A qualified elder abuse attorney can explain your options and guide you through the legal process.

Contact a Columbia Elder Abuse Lawyer Today

If you suspect your elderly loved one has been harmed, Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC is ready to stand with you. Our Columbia elder abuse attorneys have the experience, knowledge, and dedication to hold wrongdoers accountable and secure justice for the most vulnerable members of our community.

Don’t wait to take action. Call (803) 599-2207 today or contact us online for a free case evaluation, and let us help you protect your loved one’s rights and dignity.

Our Satisfied Clients

    “I’m glad that I had a great legal team to help with the transition. Thank you!!”
    “Being involved in a life-changing event is when you realize that we are really not in control of our lives and how we choose to handle it is where we find our character. Thank God for my legal team, Jacob and Erica, and everyone else involved.”
    - Former Client
    “I TOTALLY and HIGHLY recommend him and this firm. I’m VERY, VERY happy with my results.”
    “George kept me informed and gave loving advice all the way through. I could call him when I needed.  He recognized my personal, mental and physical struggles. You can trust in him. GOD knew EXACTLY what he was doing when he made him.”
    - Former Client
    “If you want an attorney who cares about you, your recovery, and the journey that lies ahead of you choose James (Jim) Sproat.”
    “He was patient, listened, considerate, explained things to me that my previous attorney did not, and broke every part of my case down so I was sure to understand every aspect of my case before leaving his office.”
    - Cassandra J.
    “Communication was timely and direction was good.”
    “Promises were kept and interactions were both personal and professional. I would highly recommend Mr. George and his firm to anyone in need of legal help.”
    - Former Client
    “Highly recommend his services!!!”
    “I had a workers compensation claim that my wonderful lawyer Lawton Harper was able to help me with. He was very attentive to detail and was able to get me the maximum claim I deserved!”
    - Former Client
    “They are professional and knowledgeable and I was always treated with respect.”
    “When my case took a hit from the doctor’s final impairment rating, Danny didn’t give up – he went full force and earned me a fair settlement!”
    - Former Client
    “He was easy to contact and responds very quickly.”
    “Lawton Harper has been amazing helping me with my works compensation case. He explained everything about what to expect throughout the case and was there for any questions or concerns I had.”
    - Kai P.
    “Highly recommend his services!!!”
    “He was very attentive to detail and was able to get me the maximum claim I deserved!”
    - Former Client

Contact Us Today!

We’re Ready to Help
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • No Fee Unless We Win

    We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay us a dime unless we successfully recover your compensation.

  • Client-Centered Approach

    We prioritize your needs and concerns, providing personalized legal advice tailored to your circumstances.

  • Proven Results

    Our lawyers have successfully secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes.

  • Extensive Experience

    Our team of skilled attorneys brings decades of combined experience in personal injury and workers’ compensation law, ensuring we can effectively represent you in a wide range of cases.