Trusting a nursing home with your loved one’s care should never lead them to harm, but too often it does. When abuse or neglect happens, those responsible must be held accountable. A Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer at Distasio Law Firm is here to protect your family, guide your next steps, and help you seek justice.
Seniors living in long-term care often face health or memory challenges like dementia, making them especially vulnerable. They may not be able to speak up for themselves. When facilities fail to provide proper care, it’s critical to act swiftly and demand accountability.
If you suspect abuse, our firm can:
- Explain your legal options
- Investigate suspected mistreatment
- Handle your claim or lawsuit from start to finish
Call today to speak with a reputable nursing home abuse attorney in Tampa, our consultations are always free.
For a free legal consultation with a knowledgeable nursing home attorney, call Distasio Law Firm now.
What To Do If Your Loved One Is Abused or Neglected In A Nursing Home
Once your loved one’s immediate safety is addressed, your next step should be legal action. A skilled Tampa nursing home abuse attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf, pursue compensation, and help prevent future harm to other residents.
At Distasio Law Firm, we believe in holding wrongdoers accountable. Our elder abuse lawyers in Tampa fight for accountability, not quick settlements. Our approach includes thorough investigation, aggressive advocacy, and hands-on service.
Want proof? Read our testimonials to see how we’ve helped other families.
Why Hire a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer ?
Choosing legal representation is a critical decision. You deserve a firm that’s independently rated, trail-ready, and deeply experienced.
Scott Distasio is a board-certified civil trial lawyer with an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell. That means he’s recognized by his peers for both ethical standards and legal ability, and an important distinction.
While many abuse cases settle, some go to court. If that happens, you need a Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer who is prepared to present your case with confidence and precision.
Questions to Ask During Your Consultation
When meeting with a nursing home abuse attorney in Tampa, bring a list of questions, such as:
- How can we stop this from happening again? How do I make sure this does not happen to anyone else?
- Can I move my loved one to a safer facility?
- What types of compensation are available?
We’ll answer each question you have clearly and compassionately.
Types of Compensation You Can Recover
If your loved one suffered harm in a nursing home, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Personal property damages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Your Tampa nursing home abuse attorney will identify all eligible damages and pursue the full amount you deserve. No two cases are alike, so we tailor our strategy to your unique situation.
Nursing home abuse is a serious issue and recovering damages for the abuse is what our lawyers do best.
Sample Nursing Home Abuse Settlements
Every single case is different, but here are just a few examples of outcomes we’ve secured:
- $1.7M for choking death due to improper diet
- $750K for fatal dehydration and gangrene
- $450K for pressure sores and fall-related injuries
These results reflect our commitment to you and to accountability. Let us assess your case and provide realistic expectations based on the facts.
Timeline to Resolve a Nursing Home Abuse Case
On average, nursing home abuse cases take 18-24 months to resolve. However, timelines vary depending on:
- Complexity of the case
- Cooperation from the facility
- Whether the case goes to trail
Throughout the entire process, your Tampa nursing home abuse lawyer will manage all communications, explain each step, and keep you informed.
Florida’s Deadline to File Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuits
Per Florida Statutes 429.296, you generally have two years to file a claim. The clock starts from:
- The date the abuse or neglect occurred
- The date it was discovered
- Or when it should have been discovered
Some exceptions may apply. Our senior citizen abuse lawyers in Tampa can determine the statute of limitations that applies to your case.
Legal Fees and Payment Structure
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our firm only gets paid if we win compensation for you. That also means we’re fully invested in your case from start to finish.
Ask us any questions about costs during your free consultation.
What Constitutes Nursing Home Abuse?
Florida Statutes § 415.102(1) defines abuse as any willful act by a caregiver that causes, or is likely to cause, serious harm to a vulnerable adult. Common forms of abuse include:
- Physical harm (e.g., hitting or rough handling)
- Emotional Abuse (e.g., yelling, humiliation)
- Intentional neglect (e.g., ignoring their needs)
Let us, as your Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case to protect your loved one’s rights.
What Constitutes Nursing Home Neglect?
Nursing home neglect is another form of nursing home abuse. Florida Statutes § 415.102(16) defines neglect as the failure or omission on the part of a caregiver to provide the care, supervision, and services necessary to maintain the physical and mental health of a vulnerable adult. Some examples of nursing home neglect may include the following:
- Ignoring hygiene needs
- Failing to prevent falls
- Inadequate nutrition or hydration
- Poor medical attention
We’ve seen these heartbreaking cases before and know exactly how to prove them.
Common Types of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Recognize the signs of mistreatment. Common examples include:
- Falls and fractures
- Pressure ulcers
- Dehydration or malnutrition
- Sexual abuse
- Medication errors
- Elopement or wandering
If you notice any of these signs, immediately consult Distasio, a trusted senior citizen lawyer in Tampa specializing in nursing home abuse.
Why Abuse and Neglect Occur in Nursing Homes
While many facilities provide compassionate care, others prioritize profit over people. That often leads to:
Understaffing: Too few caregivers on duty means needs go unmet.
Underqualified staff: Employees without proper training can become overwhelmed, leading to neglect, or worse, abuse.
Both issues put residents at risk. Our lawyers will hold negligent facilities accountable for these systematic failures.
Spotting the Signs of Abuse
Abuse isn’t always blatant, especially if your loved one has trouble communicating or does not communicate at all. However, some warning signs to look for include:
- Sudden, unexplainable mood swings
- Unexplainable injuries
- Refusal to be alone with visitors
- Unhygienic conditions
- Rapid health decline
If any of this sounds familiar, don’t wait. If something feels off, contact us.
Who Can Be Held Liable ?
Many parties can be responsible for nursing home abuse, such as:
- The facility itself
- Individual staff members
- Outside vendors
- Equipment manufacturers.
If you need help conducting a comprehensive investigation, reach out to Scott Distasio immediately.
How to Prevent Nursing Home Abuse?
Stay vigilant. Ask questions. Visit often. And know the warning signs. Prevention starts with awareness and proactive communication.
If you ever suspect wrongdoing, document everything and contact our team right away.
Why Distasio Law Firm Is Different
Scott Distasio have served the community for over 28 years, handling elder abuse and neglect claims across Florida. His firm is known for:
- Compassionate, empathetic client service
- Aggressive, expert legal representation
- A relentless pursuit of accountability
We don’t just settle. We fight for what is right.
Speak with a Tampa Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today
Your loved one deserves dignity, respect, and safety. If those values were violated, let us help fight alongside you to make it right.
Call Distasio Law Firm or complete a Free Case Evaluation form now. Your consultation is free and it may be the first step toward holding those who harmed your loved one and broke your trust accountable.
