Elder Abuse Attorneys in Denver

What Is Elder Abuse?

Elder abuse is a pervasive issue that includes various forms of mistreatment against the elderly, such as physical abuse, emotional or psychological harm, financial exploitation, neglect, and more. Alarmingly, many instances of elder abuse go unreported, with perpetrators often being family members. About two-thirds of all elder abuse cases are committed by a spouse or adult children, highlighting the vulnerability of older individuals even within their closest relationships. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), nearly 5 million cases of elder abuse occur each year in the United States, making this an urgent and growing concern for elderly Americans.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of elder abuse in Denver, Colorado, the compassionate attorneys at Evans Case are here to provide the skilled legal support you need. Colorado law offers specific protections for victims aged 70 and older, addressing crimes such as criminal negligence, assault, robbery, theft, caretaker neglect, sexual assault, and financial exploitation. Our team understands the emotional toll these situations take and is dedicated to helping you seek justice and protection for your loved ones.

Elder abuse often intersects with other critical areas of legal support, such as Elder Law, Trust and Will disputes, and Asset Management. For instance, financial exploitation cases frequently involve unauthorized access to assets or misuse of trusts and wills. At Evans Case, our attorneys are experienced in navigating these complex legal issues, ensuring that victims’ rights are protected and that stolen or misused assets are recovered whenever possible.

In addition to addressing elder abuse, we also offer guidance on broader legal matters, such as creating trusts and wills to safeguard your loved one’s future or pursuing Personal Injury claims when physical harm has occurred. Let us help you take action to protect your family member’s rights and well-being. Contact Evans Case today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you in pursuing justice and creating a secure future for your loved ones.

Types of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse can come in many forms. Familiarizing yourself with the different types of elder abuse can help you identify and prevent any future instances and protect yourself from any potential harm.

Physical Abuse

Physical abuse involves the use of force to cause harm or injury to an elderly person. Any act that causes bodily injury or physical pain to an elderly person is considered physical elder abuse.

Psychological and Emotional Abuse

Psychological or emotional abuse is characterized as any behavior that causes emotional pain or distress to an elderly individual. This can be either verbal or nonverbal and includes behavior like yelling, screaming, threatening, humiliating, or socially isolating.

Sexual Abuse

Any nonconsensual sexual behavior against an elderly person is considered sexual abuse. This includes unwanted touching, sexual assault, and more.

Financial Exploitation

Financial exploitation is one of the most common forms of elder abuse and accounts for billions of dollars in losses every year. Financial abuse includes any unauthorized use of the elder’s funds, bank accounts, assets, property, and more. Common examples of financial exploitation and abuse are theft, fraud, and identity theft.

Neglect and Abandonment

When a caregiver neglects an elder or completely abandons them without the proper and adequate support, it is considered elder abuse. Caregivers are responsible for providing basic care and assistance for the elderly and failure to do so can result in serious harm to the elder.

About 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 60 have experienced some form of elder abuse. Emotional abuse and financial exploitation are the two most common forms of elder abuse in the United States, especially among vulnerable individuals who suffer from cognitive disabilities and impairments. Colorado has seen an increase in reported elder abuse cases in recent years, with most of the victims being women.

If you or a loved one have suffered abuse at the hands of a caregiver, family member, or another individual, we strongly urge you to reach out to the team of elder abuse attorneys at Evans Case. We have decades of experience offering legal assistance to victims of elder abuse and providing compassionate support along the way. Come see why the team of attorneys at Evans Case are trusted throughout Denver to help vulnerable individuals seek justice.

Signs of Elder Abuse

Identifying signs of elder abuse can be challenging at times. It is important to familiarize yourself with the signs of abuse to help prevent any future potential for harm against you or a loved one. Recognizing the signs of elder abuse early can help you take timely action. There are a number of different signs, depending on the type of abuse.

Physical Signs of Abuse

Some physical signs of abuse include:

Bruises
Abrasions
Cuts
Scars
Sprains
Broken Bones
Weight loss or malnourishment
Poor hygiene and lack of medical care

Signs of emotional abuse often include:

Depression
Anxiety
Social isolation
Sudden changes in behavior
Unusually quiet or fearful around others

If you notice any of these signs, it could be an indicator of elder abuse. If you suspect a caregiver or other individual is causing harm to you or a loved one, we strongly encourage you to call Evans Case to speak with one of our elder abuse attorneys.

Signs of financial exploitation may be harder to notice than physical indicators, but some things to keep an eye out for may include:

Unexplained bank withdrawals and transfers
Changes in wills or financial documents
Missing property
Unpaid bills

Serious financial abuse can have devastating effects on an elderly individual. The loss of valuable or sentimental personal items can also cause emotional distress. If you are noticing unusual activity with your bank accounts, or suspect that you may be the victim of any kind of financial exploitation, we strongly encourage you to reach out to Evans Case Today. Our trusted team of elder abuse attorneys are committed to keeping elderly individuals protected and seeking justice.

Exploitation

Elder abuse is any act that causes harm to an elderly person, and it is defined in Colorado statute as a variety of acts, including exploitation, which is any act or omission that involves the use of deception, harassment, intimidation, or undue influence to permanently or temporarily deprive an at-risk adult of anything of value.

This may also involve hiring a third party for the personal profit or gain of the individual or business to the detriment of the at-risk adult; forcing the adult to provide services against their will for another person's benefit; or misusing the property of an at-risk adult so that his ability to obtain healthcare, healthcare benefits, or pay for basic needs or obligations is impaired.

At-Risk Adult" means any person eighteen years of age or older who is susceptible to mistreatment or self-neglect because the person, due to physical or mental impairment, or because the person is incapacitated or disabled, is unable to perform or obtain necessary services for such person's health, safety, or welfare or lacks sufficient understanding or capacity to make or communicate responsible decisions concerning such person's person or affairs (C.R.S. 26-3.1-101(1.5)).

Likewise, an "At-Risk Elder" means any person seventy years of age or older, or any person eighteen years of age or older with a disability, as defined in the statute. An "At-Risk Adult with IDD" means any person eighteen years of age or older with an intellectual and developmental disability as defined in section 25.5–10–202(26)(a), C.R.S.

Collectively, an "At-Risk Person" includes at-risk adults, at-risk adults with IDD, at-risk elders, or at-risk juveniles (C.R.S. 18-6.5-102(2, 2.5, 3, 4.5)).

Understanding these definitions can help one begin to see the variety of ways in which elder abuse can manifest and can help ensure proper protection for the vulnerable members of our communities.

How Can You Report Elder Abuse?

If you or a loved one have been the victim of elder abuse, it is essential that you report it to the proper authorities. In Colorado, there are a number of different ways to report elder abuse.

Contact Local Authorities

You can contact the Denver Police Department or your local authorities and report suspected abuse. If you believe that you or a loved one are in immediate danger, it is recommended that you call 911 for immediate support.

Adult Protective Services

Denver’s Adult Protective Services is tasked with investigating reports of elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and more. To report a case of elder abuse and request an investigation, you can contact Adult Protective Services with all of your concerns.

Colorado Department of Human Services

Call the Colorado Department of Human Services hotline to report elder abuse: 1-844-CO-4-HELP (1-844-264-4357). This service is available 24/7.

If you suspect elder abuse, we recommend that you call the local authorities or Adult Protective Services, and consult with an attorney immediately. The sooner you are able to seek help, the sooner you will be able to prevent any risk of future harm. The elder abuse attorneys at Evans Case are here to help victims all over the city of Denver.

Legal Assistance

An experienced elder abuse attorney can assist in guiding you through the appropriate steps to take if you or a loved one have been the victim of elder abuse. The elder abuse attorneys at Evans Case can help you throughout the reporting process and keep you and your rights protected. Contact us today to see how we can offer invaluable legal support.

Legal Actions to Take Against Elder Abuse

There are many different steps that you can take if you have been the victim of elder abuse. Some actions that you can take to help keep yourself protected and hold the abuser accountable include:

Civil Lawsuits: A civil lawsuit can be filed against the abuser either by the victim or members of the victim’s family. Victims may be able to claim compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, or any other damages that may have arisen as a result of abuse.
Prosecution: In Colorado, elder abuse is a criminal offense. Local law enforcement is able to conduct an investigation and criminally prosecute perpetrators, leading to criminal charges and possibly even jail time. ,
Protective Orders: Victims of elder abuse are able to receive a protective order, or a restraining order, from their abuser. These protective orders offer protection for elders against their abusers and are enforced by law enforcement.
Guardianships: If an elderly individual is either incapacitated or cognitively impaired, the court can appoint a guardian to look after them and ensure their safety.

An elder abuse attorney will be able to help guide you through whichever route is best suited for you or your loved one. Whether that be a civil suit, filing for a protection order, or establishing guardianship, the elder abuse attorneys at Evans Case have the experience to help you seek justice and assist in finding the best option for you. Do not hesitate to contact the attorneys at Evans Case to set up a consultation and discuss your case. See why we are trusted to provide unwavering support and compassion throughout the Denver area.

Resources for Elder Abuse in Denver, Colorado

Denver offers various resources to support victims of elder abuse and their families. These resources include:

Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG)

DRCOG provides services and support for elderly residents in Denver, including advocacy, counseling, and assistance programs.

Denver Human Services

Denver Human Services offers programs to protect and support elderly residents, including Adult Protective Services and elder abuse prevention initiatives.

Colorado Coalition for Elder Rights and Abuse Prevention (CCERAP)

CCERAP works to prevent elder abuse through education, advocacy, and support services. They offer resources for victims and families to help navigate the legal and social services systems.

National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA)

NCEA provides comprehensive information on elder abuse, including prevention strategies, reporting resources, and support services. They offer a helpline and online resources for victims and families.

How an Elder Abuse Attorney Can Help

An experienced elder abuse attorney can provide you and your loved ones with different options to take if you have been the victim of elder abuse. We are prepared to guide you through the legal process, no matter which avenue you are interested in taking. Whether you are considering filing a civil lawsuit or filing for a protective order, Evans Case is prepared to speak with you about your case and assist you in finding the best solutions for you and your family.

From filing paperwork to going to court, the elder abuse attorneys at Evans Case are prepared to stand by your side through these troubling times and offer unwavering support to you and your loved ones. We can assist in finding you the help that you need and seeking the justice that you deserve.

If you suspect elder abuse or neglect, you should consult with an attorney immediately. In cases where there is an immediate risk of harm, you should contact:

Adult Protective Services:

Hotline: (720) 944-2994
Office: (720) 944-3666
Website: cdhs.colorado.gov/aps

As an act of public service, Keith Lapuyade frequently speaks to groups about Scams that target the elderly and other vulnerable persons. Please call if your group or organization would like to schedule a presentation. You can reach Keith at keith@evanscase.com.

Contact Evans Case Today to Speak With Our Elder Abuse Attorneys

Evans Case proudly serves the city of Denver and the surrounding metro area. Our attorneys are well equipped to take on your case and help you seek the justice you deserve for your elder abuse case. Learn more about our Elder Law Practice and meet our Elder Law Attorneys.

Don’t wait. If you or a loved one are suffering from elder abuse, we strongly encourage you to alert the proper authorities and seek legal counsel right away. Your safety is important, and protecting yourself should always come first. Whether you are suffering from physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, or financial exploitation, we are here to make sure that you and your rights are protected. Call Evans Case today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help you seek justice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of elder abuse that I should be aware of?

Elder abuse manifests in various forms, each with distinct indicators. Physical abuse may present as unexplained bruises, burns, cuts, or fractures. Emotional abuse can lead to sudden changes in behavior, such as withdrawal, depression, or anxiety. Financial exploitation might be evidenced by unusual banking activities, missing belongings, or unpaid bills despite sufficient resources. Neglect is often indicated by poor hygiene, malnutrition, dehydration, or unsafe living conditions.

How can an elder abuse attorney assist victims in Denver?

An elder abuse attorney in Denver can provide comprehensive legal support to victims by investigating allegations, gathering evidence, and representing them in civil or criminal proceedings. They can assist in obtaining protective orders to ensure the victim's safety and pursue compensation for damages suffered due to abuse or neglect. Attorneys also navigate the complexities of state laws and regulations pertinent to elder abuse, ensuring that victims' rights are upheld. Additionally, they can coordinate with Adult Protective Services and other agencies to facilitate comprehensive care and protection for the elderly individual. Their expertise is crucial in holding perpetrators accountable and securing justice for victims.

What steps should I take if I suspect elder abuse in Colorado?

If you suspect elder abuse in Colorado, it's imperative to act promptly. Begin by reporting your concerns to local law enforcement or Adult Protective Services (APS); in Colorado, certain professionals are mandated reporters and must report suspected abuse within 24 hours. Provide detailed information about the suspected abuse, including the elder's condition and any known history. Ensure the safety of the elder by removing them from harmful environments if possible. Consulting with an elder abuse attorney can guide you through the legal process and help protect the victim's rights. Remember, timely intervention is crucial to prevent further harm.

How does Evans Case, LLP approach elder abuse cases in Denver?

Evans Case, LLP approaches elder abuse cases in Denver with a commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of the elderly. Their experienced attorneys conduct thorough investigations to substantiate claims of abuse or neglect. They work diligently to hold responsible parties accountable through legal action, seeking compensation and justice for victims. The firm emphasizes compassionate client service, ensuring that victims and their families are supported throughout the legal process. By leveraging their extensive knowledge of Colorado laws, Evans Case, LLP strives to achieve favorable outcomes for those affected by elder abuse. If you or a loved one has been a victim of elder abuse, please contact us to discuss how we can assist you.

Additional Information in Denver, Colorado

U.S. Department of Justice – Elder Justice Initiative: Central resource dedicated to combating elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. It provides educational materials for victims, families, and professionals to recognize signs of abuse and understand reporting mechanisms. The site also offers information on federal laws, training materials for law enforcement, and resources to support prosecutors handling elder abuse cases. For those involved in elder abuse cases, the site is invaluable in understanding the legal framework and accessing tools to protect and advocate for elderly victims. Utilizing these resources enhances awareness, facilitates justice, and helps ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable seniors.

National Council on Aging – Get the Facts on Elder Abuse: Defines elder abuse as intentional acts or failures to act that cause harm or risk to individuals aged 60 or older. It identifies various forms of elder abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial exploitation, neglect, and abandonment. The article emphasizes the importance of recognizing these forms to protect older adults effectively. For those involved in elder abuse cases, this resource provides a foundational understanding of the issue, aiding in identifying abuse and informing appropriate interventions. Utilizing this information can enhance efforts to safeguard the well-being and dignity of older adults.

National Center on Elder Abuse – What is Elder Abuse?: Comprehensive resource dedicated to preventing elder mistreatment. It offers up-to-date information on research, training, policy, and best practices related to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The site provides educational materials to help individuals recognize signs of abuse and understand reporting mechanisms. For those involved in elder abuse cases, the NCEA website is invaluable in understanding the legal framework and accessing tools to protect and advocate for elderly victims. Utilizing these resources enhances awareness, facilitates justice, and helps ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable seniors.