How Can Giroux & Associates Help With Your Elder Abuse, Neglect or Exploitation Case?
Adult Protective Services is usually the agency responsible for handling reports of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. However, other agencies and non-profit organizations could be involved.
Adult Protective Services
Adult Protective Services is the public agency responsible for investigating reported cases of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. In Florida, Adult Protective Services is part of the Florida Department of Children and Families. This agency also provides victims with treatment and protective services. If you suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an elder or vulnerable adult, you should call Florida’s Abuse Hotline.
If you are unsure whether the circumstances you have observed require you to call the Hotline, our knowledgeable Sarasota Nursing Home Law Firm can assist you.
Florida’s Laws
Florida law (Section 943.17296) has a requirement that each certified law enforcement officer must successfully complete training on identifying and investigating elder abuse and neglect as a part of the basic recruit training of the officer. Therefore, your local police officers may be an additional avenue of help.
In cases involving more violent crimes, such as sexual abuse or assault, prosecuting attorneys are likely to be contacted.
Several of the toughest and most stringent laws and regulations regarding elder abuse have been enacted in Florida. Florida law makes it mandatory for people who suspect elder abuse to report their evidence.
Long Term Care Ombudsman
Florida has a Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, whose stated mission “is to improve the quality of life for all Florida long-term care residents by advocating for and protecting their health, safety, welfare and rights.”
It is a voluntary program, and the ombudsmen work to identify, investigate and resolve the concerns of residents and their loved ones, and performing annual assessments of every facility in Florida.
Get Help from a Top Sarasota Nursing Home Law Firm
Call Giroux & Associates today at (727) 895-5399 to schedule an initial consultation with a Sarasota nursing home law firm.