Back to What We DoCHICAGO NURSING HOME ABUSE ATTORNEYS
Ensuring each family’s rights are protected.
When families place a loved one in a nursing home or assisted living facility, it is with the expectation that person will receive compassionate and competent care in a safe environment. Sadly, that’s not always the case. Thousands of Americans suffer nursing home abuse each year due to negligent hiring practices, understaffing, inadequate training and poor medication management, among other mistreatment. Cavanagh Sorich Law Group holds abusers accountable through expert testimony, medical witnesses and meticulous research. The firm previously obtained a $900,000 settlement from Wheaton Care Center in Wheaton, Ill., after a resident died of salicylate toxicity in 2002. Our attorneys proved the defendants in the case were improperly storing and distributing medications.
Because residents at nursing homes and assisted living facilities aren’t always able to articulate their concerns, it’s important to know the signs of elder abuse and neglect. Physical abuse can take the form of sexual assault, battery, physical restraint or food or water deprivation. It is possible for staff to administer incorrect dosages of medication or the wrong medication all together. Many nursing home residents can also fall prey to financial abuse, or situations in which staff members or fellow residents misappropriate funds, forge signatures or trick someone into signing legal documents. Symptoms of neglect or abuse can include changes in a person’s mood or appetite, emotional withdrawal, bruises or physical discomfort, sudden financial difficulties or a reluctance to speak in the presence of nursing home employees.
About Cavanagh Sorich Law Group
Cavanagh Sorich Law Group has obtained more than $650 million in verdicts and settlements in Illinois and across the United States. Our veteran trial attorneys are aggressive advocates who practice every facet of personal injury law and take on cases of all sizes. We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win. At Cavanagh Sorich Law Group, we pride ourselves on attentive customer service and being there for families in their times of need. Our well respected, award-winning attorneys are available 24/7 for your questions and concerns. To schedule a free case evaluation, call 312-425-1900.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I was involved in a car accident?
Call the police immediately and file a police report. Even if the damage was minor, it is essential to document what happened with a law enforcement agency. Take photos at the scene.
Never admit fault. Your testimony could be used against you at a later date. While you are required to speak to police, there is no obligation to talk to another person’s attorney or insurance company. Avoid providing written or oral statements.
Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible — but don’t admit fault. Many insurance companies have rules requiring policyholders to report crashes within a certain timeframe. Check your policy to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Visit a doctor as soon as possible after the crash. Whether you’re filing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit, it is imperative that a medical professional documents your injuries.
Hire an attorney. Cavanagh Sorich Law Group’s team of veteran trial attorneys will help you obtain maximum benefits through meticulous research, proven strategy and expert testimony.
Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Illinois has comparative negligence laws, which allow injured parties to have some degree of fault in an accident and still recover reduced damages. The amount of money recovered may be proportional to the degree to which a person is at fault. Insurance companies make determinations following interviews with witnesses and involved parties and a thorough review of the accident report.
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit?
Under Illinois law, people have two years from the date of an accident to file a lawsuit in civil court. That timeframe drops to one year if the claim is against a municipal government, such as a city or county.