How to Find the Best Attorney for Elder Abuse

As you age, you may become more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by those who are supposed to care for you. If you or a loved one has experienced elder abuse, it’s crucial to take action to protect your rights and seek justice. One of the first steps you should take is to find an attorney who specializes in elder abuse cases and has the experience and expertise to handle your case. This article will provide tips on finding the best attorney for your elder abuse case.

Referrals and Recommendations

One of the best ways to find an elder abuse attorney is through referrals and recommendations from trusted sources. You can start by asking friends, family members, financial advisors, accountants, and other attorneys for advice. 

Ask them if they know of a reliable lawyer who could represent you and your elderly loved one in a legal case involving elder abuse. If you cannot locate an attorney who focuses on elder abuse through these channels, you can also request a referral from a local bar association or legal aid office. 

These organizations often have lists of attorneys specializing in elder abuse cases and can provide you with the contact information of an attorney suitable for your case.

Directly Contact an Elder Abuse Attorney and Ask Questions

Another option is to directly contact or consult with an elder abuse attorney and ask about their experience and qualifications. You can find a list of attorneys specializing in elder abuse cases by online searching or checking with your local bar association. 

When contacting an attorney, also ask about their success rate. Try to find out if they have any awards or memberships in special committees related to elder abuse litigation. Find out if they belong to national organizations like Elder Counsel Inc. or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. 

Questions you could ask your prospective elder abuse attorney include:

• How many elder abuse cases have you handled in the past?

• What steps do you take to ensure the best outcome for your clients in elder abuse cases?

• Have you ever taken an elder abuse case to trial? If so, what was the outcome?

• How do you communicate with your clients during the legal process?

• Will you be the primary attorney handling my case, or will it be passed off to another member of your firm?

• How do you handle negotiations with the opposing party in an elder abuse case?

• Do you have any specialized training or certification in elder abuse law?

• How do you determine your fees for an elder abuse case?

• Are you a member of any professional organizations related to elder abuse law?

• Do you have any resources or connections that may be helpful in my elder abuse case, such as experts or investigators?

Check the status of their license to practice law

It’s crucial to ensure that the attorney you choose is licensed to practice law in your state. You can check the status of an attorney’s license by contacting your state bar association or checking the attorney’s online profile. A licensed attorney will have the knowledge and expertise to handle your case effectively.

Ask About Attorney’s Fees

Another vital factor to consider when choosing an attorney is their fees. Attorneys generally charge for their services in two ways: 

• By the hour.

• On a contingency basis.

If an attorney charges by the hour, you will be billed for the time they spend working on your case. The hourly rate for an attorney can vary widely, but it is typically between $100 and $500 per hour.

If an attorney works on a contingency basis, they will only receive a percentage of any settlement or judgment you receive. The percentage can range from 25% to 40% of the total amount recovered. For example, if you receive a $100,000 settlement, the attorney’s fee may be $30,000 to $40,000.

Understanding how an attorney charges for their services is essential, and discussing their fees upfront is vital.

How Much Does An Elder Abuse Attorney Cost?

The cost of hiring an elder abuse attorney will depend on various factors, including the attorney’s experience and reputation, the complexity of the case, and the location of the attorney’s practice. In general, attorneys who specialize in elder abuse cases may charge higher fees than attorneys who do not specialize in this area of law.

Years of Experience

Experience is another critical factor when choosing an attorney. Look for an attorney who has been practicing law for several years and has experience handling elder abuse cases. A more experienced attorney may better understand the law and be better equipped to handle your case.

Finding the best attorney for your elder abuse case is essential to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the justice you deserve. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can be confident that you are choosing an attorney who is qualified, experienced, and dedicated to helping you get the best possible outcome for your case.