Florence Elder Abuse Attorney

Protecting the Rights and Dignity of Florence’s Elderly Population

When families place an elderly loved one in the care of a nursing home, assisted living facility, or in-home caregiver, they do so with trust. Unfortunately, that trust is sometimes broken. If you suspect that your elderly loved one has suffered abuse or neglect, a compassionate and experienced Florence elder abuse lawyer at Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC is ready to fight for justice on your behalf.

We represent victims and their families in Florence, SC, holding negligent caregivers, medical professionals, and facilities accountable for their harmful actions—or inaction. Elder abuse is not only morally wrong, but also a violation of both civil and criminal laws. Our legal team can help you uncover the truth, gather the necessary evidence, and pursue full compensation.

Call (803) 599-2207 or contact us online today to speak with our  Florence elder abuse attorneys. Your consultation is free, and there are no legal fees unless we win your case.

What is Considered Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse encompasses a range of harmful acts, from physical violence to emotional mistreatment and neglect. In South Carolina, elder abuse is defined as the intentional or negligent act by any individual or facility that causes harm—or creates a serious risk of harm—to a vulnerable older adult.

Some common examples of elder abuse include:

• Physical abuse – Hitting, slapping, pushing, or excessive physical restraint
• Emotional abuse – Verbal threats, humiliation, harassment, or isolation
• Sexual abuse – Any non-consensual sexual contact
• Financial exploitation – Theft of money, property, or manipulation of financial accounts
• Neglect – Failure to provide adequate food, water, hygiene, medication, or medical care

Elder neglect is one of the most common forms of abuse and is often difficult to detect. It may stem from understaffed facilities, undertrained caregivers, or outright disregard for a resident’s needs.

Who is Liable for Elder Abuse?

Liability in elder abuse cases can extend to a wide range of individuals and entities, depending on the circumstances. In many situations, the responsible party is:

• A nursing home or assisted living facility that fails to properly supervise or train staff
• An individual caregiver working in a private home or healthcare setting
• Medical professionals who ignore or fail to report signs of abuse
• A family member or legal guardian who misuses their authority or fails to provide care

State law mandates that certain professionals—like doctors, nurses, and social workers—must report any suspicions of elder abuse to the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS). Failure to do so can result in both civil and criminal penalties.

If abuse occurs in a long-term care facility, the business or institution itself can be held accountable under South Carolina’s adult protection laws and for breach of contract, negligence, or medical malpractice.

What to Do If Your Elderly Loved One is Being Abused

If you believe your loved one is being mistreated, it’s important to act quickly but thoughtfully. Here are steps you can take to ensure their safety and begin building your legal case:

1. Ensure immediate safety – If your loved one is in immediate danger, call 911 and remove them from the situation if possible.
2. Document everything – Take photos of visible injuries or poor conditions, write down incidents and dates, and save relevant communications.
3. Report the abuse – You can report elder abuse to the South Carolina DSS Adult Protective Services division or local law enforcement.
4. Consult a Florence elder abuse lawyer – An experienced attorney can help investigate the claim, protect your loved one’s rights, and file a civil lawsuit to recover compensation.

Elder Abuse Claim FAQs

How common is elder abuse in South Carolina?

Sadly, elder abuse is more common than many realize. According to national data, as many as 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 60 have experienced some form of abuse. Many of these cases go unreported due to fear, confusion, or cognitive impairment.

What are the signs of elder abuse or neglect?

Some warning signs include:

• Unexplained injuries (bruises, fractures, burns)
• Sudden weight loss or malnutrition
• Poor hygiene or bedsores
• Emotional withdrawal or depression
• Unusual banking activity or missing funds
• If something feels off, trust your instincts and take action.

How much time do I have to file an elder abuse lawsuit in Florence, SC?

South Carolina generally has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including elder abuse. However, there are exceptions depending on the facts of the case, so it’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I sue a nursing home for neglect?

Yes. Nursing homes have a legal duty to provide appropriate care. If they breach this duty and your loved one suffers harm, you may be able to file a lawsuit for damages including medical costs, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.

What compensation can be recovered?

In an elder abuse case, your family may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death damages (if the abuse results in death)

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Florence Elder Abuse Lawyer Today

Don’t wait to take action if you suspect elder abuse or neglect. The sooner you act, the better your chances of protecting your loved one and building a strong legal case.

We are committed to:

• Conducting thorough investigations
• Holding negligent parties fully accountable
• Securing fair and full compensation
• Treating your family with dignity, compassion, and respect
• Your loved one deserves justice, and we are here to help deliver it.

Reach out to us at (803) 599-2207 for support in this challenging time.