Top Gorham, ME Elder Abuse Lawyers Near You
220 Middle Street, PO Box 4600, Portland, ME 04112
261 US Route 1, Suite 201, Falmouth, ME 04105
144 Main Street, Saco, ME 04072
48 Free St, Suite 260, Portland, ME 04101
100 Middle Street, PO Box 9729, Portland, ME 04104-5029
56B Maine St., Brunswick, ME 04011
One Monument Way, Portland, ME 04101
53 Exchange Street, Suite 400, Portland, ME 04101
One Portland Square, Portland, ME 04112-0586
One City Center, Suite 11100, Portland, ME 04101
68 Main St, Suite 3, Kennebunk, ME 04043
41 Hutchins Drive, Portland, ME 04102
1 Union Street, Suite 501, Portland, ME 04101
10 Dana St, Suite 200, Portland, ME 04101
Gorham Elder Abuse Information
Lead Counsel Verified Attorneys in Gorham
Lead Counsel independently verifies Elder Abuse attorneys in Gorham and checks their standing with Maine bar associations.
Our Verification Process and Criteria
Ample Experience
Attorneys must meet stringent qualifications and prove they practice in the area of law they’re verified in.
Good Standing
Be in good standing with their bar associations and maintain a clean disciplinary record.
Annual Review
Submit to an annual review to retain their Lead Counsel Verified status.
Client Commitment
Pledge to follow the highest quality client service and ethical standards.
What Is Elder Abuse?
Older adults can be targets of physical abuse, neglect, isolation, and financial abuse. It can happen at the hands of nursing home or assisted living staff, neighbors, friends, and even family members. According to some stats, at least one in 10 older adults living in senior living is a victim of some type of abuse. Many victims are often afraid to ask for help, worrying that it will make their situations worse.
What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need an Elder Abuse Lawyer?
An elder law attorney can help protect your rights or the rights of your loved one if they are a victim of abuse. You should consider contacting an attorney if your loved one:
- Is showing signs of physical abuse
- Is making questionable financial transactions, which could be a sign of financial exploitation
- Has become withdrawn or depressed
- Is dehydrated or showing other signs of malnutrition
How Can a Lawyer Help Me With Elder Law?
An elder law lawyer helps ensure your or your loved one’s legal and financial affairs are in order and that rights are protected. An experienced elder law lawyer with experience that relates to your situation can provide essential knowledge, insight, and support, including:
- Identifying resources in Gorham and Maine for the elderly
- Reporting nursing home abuse or neglect to the authorities
- Investigating and gathering evidence
- Determining liability
- Evaluating damages
- Negotiation and mediation
- Litigation and trial representation
- Enforcement of court orders
- Filing legal motions
What Could Happen if I Don’t Hire an Elder Law Lawyer?
If you don’t hire an elder law lawyer, you might face difficulties managing legal and financial issues for yourself or an elderly loved one. Without proper guidance, you could make mistakes in estate planning, leading to family disputes or financial losses. You might struggle to navigate complex Medicaid rules or face challenges securing appropriate care. In cases of elder abuse or neglect, you may not know how to protect your loved one’s rights. A lawyer helps you address these issues effectively, ensuring your loved one’s well-being and securing their financial future.
What Questions Should I Ask When Trying To Find an Elder Law Lawyer in Gorham?
These questions can help you decide if you feel comfortable and confident that a lawyer has the qualifications, experience, and ability to manage your case well. Many lawyers offer free consultations that allow you to understand your options and get specific legal advice before hiring them. The top questions to ask include:
- How have you handled cases like mine?
- What are the potential outcomes of my case?
- What is the timeline for my case?
- Are there alternative dispute resolutions available, like mediation or arbitration?
- What is your billing and fee structure?
- How long have you been practicing in Maine?
- Do you have access to experts who can support my case?
- How do you approach evidence collection?
- What is your approach to negotiations and settlements?
- What will my involvement be during the process?
Tips for Hiring an Elder Law Lawyer
Finding a lawyer who is right for you and will represent your best interests is an essential first step in managing your case and protecting your rights. Find a lawyer who understands your case, knows your needs and goals, and has the experience to get the best outcome. Things to do:
- Ask for recommendations
- Research lawyers online
- Schedule consultations
- Review experience and expertise
- Talk about billing and fees
- Trust your instincts