San Diego Nursing Home Sexual Abuse Attorney
Sexual abuse in nursing homes is one of the most horrific and heartbreaking violations of trust that a vulnerable person can experience. Elderly individuals who reside in nursing homes deserve respect, safety, and dignified care—not exploitation or mistreatment. When this trust is broken through acts of sexual assault or unwanted sexual contact, survivors and their families deserve justice.
At Greenberg Gross LLP, our dedicated team of attorneys stands up for survivors of nursing home abuse in San Diego. We represent elderly nursing home residents who have experienced sexual abuse, helping them seek accountability and compensation. With deep experience handling sensitive and complex elder abuse cases, our law firm provides compassionate, confidential support through every step of the legal process.
The Devastating Reality of Sexual Abuse in San Diego Nursing Homes
Sexual abuse in long term care facilities can take many different forms—from groping and exposure to coerced sexual acts or rape. In many instances, the perpetrator is a staff member, caregiver, or even another resident, taking advantage of a vulnerable nursing home resident who cannot defend themselves due to physical or mental limitations. Tragically, dementia patients and those with severe medical conditions are especially at risk.
This abuse often occurs in silence. Many survivors are afraid to speak up—or are unable to due to advanced age, fear, or cognitive impairment. It’s essential that family members stay alert to red flags and act immediately if they suspect something is wrong.
Warning Signs and Red Flags of Nursing Home Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse is not always visible, and survivors may feel ashamed or too frightened to disclose what happened. However, there are certain indicators families should look for, such as:
- Unexplained bruising around the genitals or thighs
- Sudden emotional withdrawal or fear of a particular staff member
- Torn or bloodied clothing or undergarments
- Newly diagnosed sexually transmitted infections
- Complaints of pain or discomfort during medical care
- Regression in behavior or sudden depression
- Resistance to being alone in a room with certain people
These signs require urgent attention. Abuse and neglect must never be tolerated—whether in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or other dependent adult care settings.
Legal Protections Under California Law
California law offers robust protections for elderly residents in nursing homes. Under the Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act, sexual abuse is considered a form of elder abuse, punishable by both civil and criminal penalties.
The state mandates that suspected abuse be reported to Adult Protective Services or the California Department of Public Health. In addition, survivors and their families have the right to pursue legal action against those responsible. Whether the abuse happened in a San Diego nursing home, assisted living setting, or another facility, survivors have the legal right to hold individuals and institutions accountable.
Our law firm works closely with survivors and their families to ensure every available path to justice is pursued.
Types of Abuse in San Diego Nursing Facilities
Sexual abuse is often accompanied by or linked to other forms of abuse and neglect. Greenberg Gross LLP handles a wide range of abuse cases in San Diego County facilities, including:
- Physical abuse—hitting, slapping, or excessive force
- Financial abuse—stealing money, manipulating wills, or exploiting residents financially
- Psychological abuse—threats, isolation, humiliation, or intimidation
- Emotional abuse—verbal insults or neglecting a resident’s emotional needs
- Improper care—failure to bathe, medicate, or monitor residents appropriately
- Abuse and neglect stemming from understaffing or lack of supervision
Each case is different, and our legal team takes the time to understand the specific circumstances and harm involved.
Who Can Be Held Accountable?
In sexual abuse cases, multiple individuals and entities can be held accountable for harm caused to a vulnerable resident. These may include:
- The staff member or caregiver who committed the abuse
- Supervisors who ignored or failed to respond to red flags
- Nursing home administrators who failed to perform proper background checks
- The facility itself, for lack of security, training, or oversight
- Corporate owners of Southern California nursing home chains
Our attorneys dig deep to uncover not only what happened, but why it happened—and who is responsible. We are relentless in seeking justice for our clients.
Seeking Justice and Compensation
Survivors of nursing home sexual abuse have the right to file a civil lawsuit for compensation. Legal damages may include:
- Medical care and counseling expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Relocation costs to a safer facility
- Loss of quality of life
- Punitive damages in egregious cases
- Compensation for wrongful death, if applicable
Every survivor deserves to have their voice heard. Filing a civil claim is not just about financial recovery—it’s about preventing future abuse and holding wrongdoers accountable.
Our Firm’s Approach to Nursing Home Abuse Cases
At Greenberg Gross LLP, our attorneys approach every case with sensitivity and determination. We know how difficult it is to come forward after abuse, especially when it involves an elderly loved one. That’s why we offer:
- A confidential consultation to discuss your situation safely
- Thorough investigation and evidence gathering
- Coordination with Adult Protective Services or state agencies
- Aggressive legal action against the responsible facility and staff
- A compassionate, survivor-focused approach
We handle every case in a way that respects the dignity and privacy of the survivor, while firmly pursuing justice under California law.
Why Greenberg Gross LLP?
Our firm has earned recognition throughout Southern California for our advocacy in sexual abuse cases. With a strong record of results and a personalized approach, we fight for the best interests of our clients in every case. Whether we are featured in the San Diego Attorney Journal or working quietly behind the scenes, our focus is always on achieving justice for those harmed by abuse and neglect.
We understand the unique challenges of holding facilities accountable and are prepared to navigate even the most complex abuse cases involving long term care facilities and dependent adults.
If You Suspect Sexual Abuse, Take Action Now
If your elderly loved one has experienced unwanted sexual contact or any other form of abuse at a San Diego facility, don’t wait. Contact Greenberg Gross LLP today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you understand your legal rights, explore your options, and begin the path toward healing and justice.
You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I suspect sexual abuse in a nursing home?
Immediately ensure the resident’s safety, report the incident to the facility, and file a report with Adult Protective Services or the California Department of Public Health. Then contact an experienced attorney.
Can a nursing home be sued for sexual abuse of a resident?
Yes. Nursing homes and their staff can be held accountable through civil lawsuits and criminal charges. A legal claim can help secure justice and prevent future abuse.
What kind of compensation is available for survivors of sexual abuse?
Survivors may be entitled to damages for medical treatment, emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and relocation costs. In cases of wrongful death, families may seek compensation as well.
How common is sexual abuse in nursing homes?
Sadly, more common than most people think. Many cases go unreported due to fear or cognitive decline. It’s essential to watch for red flags and act quickly.
Is there a time limit to file a sexual abuse lawsuit in California?
Yes, there are statutes of limitations. It’s best to consult with a San Diego nursing home sexual abuse attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
If you’re ready to speak with someone about what happened, our legal team is ready to listen. Reach out today for a free case evaluation.