When someone you care about is being harmed, staying silent is not an option. If you’re wondering what happens when you report someone for elder abuse, it means you’ve taken the first critical step in protecting a vulnerable senior. But making a report is just the beginning. At Moran Law, we understand how emotional, complex, and urgent these situations can be — and we’re here to guide you through the legal process every step of the way.
Elder abuse in California isn’t just wrong — it’s a serious legal violation. Whether the abuse occurs in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or by a caregiver at home, swift legal action can prevent further harm and hold the abuser accountable. This guide explains how elder abuse is defined, who you can report it to, what happens next, and when it’s time to speak with an experienced nursing home abuse lawyer.
Table of Contents
What Constitutes Elder Abuse?
Elder abuse refers to any intentional or negligent act by a caregiver, facility, or trusted individual that causes harm or risk of harm to an older adult. Abuse can be physical, emotional, financial, or involve neglect, and it may come from those responsible for providing care, including staff in nursing homes, home health aides, or even family members.
Physical, Emotional, Financial, and Neglect
- Physical abuse includes hitting, slapping, rough handling, or unnecessary restraints.
- Emotional abuse may involve verbal threats, humiliation, or isolation.
- Financial abuse occurs when someone misuses an elder’s money, benefits, or property.
- Neglect involves failure to provide basic needs such as food, hygiene, medication, or safety, often resulting in preventable injuries like falls, pressure sores, or dehydration.
At Moran Law, our elder abuse attorneys have handled countless cases where these forms of abuse were hidden beneath layers of silence or dismissed by negligent institutions. We believe that no elder should suffer in silence, and no abuser should escape accountability.
Who Can Commit Elder Abuse? (Family, Caregivers, Facilities)
Abuse can come from:
- Facility staff (nurses, aides, administrators)
- Home healthcare workers
- Family members or guardians
- Strangers targeting elders financially
Whether the abuse happens in a skilled nursing facility, an assisted living center, or a private residence, our nursing home neglect attorneys work tirelessly to uncover the truth and fight for justice.
When Poor Care Becomes Legal Abuse or Neglect
Not every accident or mistake rises to the level of abuse. However, when facilities fail to follow medical protocols, ignore safety standards, or cover up injuries, it may cross into legal neglect or even criminal wrongdoing. If you’re unsure whether what you’ve witnessed is abuse, speak to a qualified nursing home abuse attorney. We’ll evaluate your concerns and help you take the right next step — because protecting the elderly is not just our job, it’s our mission.
Who Can You Report Elder Abuse To?
If you suspect elder abuse, knowing who to report it to is essential. In California, several agencies are authorized to receive and investigate complaints of abuse or neglect against seniors, and each plays a critical role in protecting vulnerable elders. Whether the abuse occurs in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or private residence, prompt reporting can save lives and trigger legal consequences for the abuser.
Below are the primary reporting channels:
Adult Protective Services (APS)
Adult Protective Services (APS) is a government agency that investigates reports of elder abuse involving seniors living in private homes or non-institutional settings. APS professionals respond to reports of:
- Physical abuse
- Neglect or abandonment
- Financial exploitation
- Self-neglect
Once a report is filed, APS conducts a confidential investigation and works with law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and social workers to ensure the elder’s safety. If you’re unsure whether APS is the right agency, a nursing home abuse lawyer can guide you through the process and help ensure your report goes to the appropriate authority.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
When abuse or neglect occurs in a licensed nursing home or assisted living facility, the California Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is often the first line of defense. Ombudsmen are specially trained advocates who investigate complaints involving:
- Poor care
- Unsafe or unsanitary conditions
- Rights violations
- Emotional, verbal, or physical mistreatment
The Ombudsman can help resolve issues directly with the facility and escalate serious violations to state agencies or legal authorities. However, for cases involving severe injury or ongoing abuse, contacting a nursing home abuse attorney is critical to initiate formal legal action.
Local Law Enforcement
If the elder is in immediate danger or if you suspect criminal conduct such as assault or financial fraud, always call local police or 911. Law enforcement can:
- Intervene immediately
- File criminal charges against the abuser
- Involve detectives or specialized elder crime units
After police involvement, it’s essential to connect with lawyers for nursing home abuse who can help with the civil side of the case, including securing compensation for harm done.
Licensing Agencies or Health Departments
In cases involving medical negligence or unsafe facilities, you can file a complaint with:
- The California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
- The California Department of Social Services (DSS)
These agencies can investigate, cite, fine, or even revoke licenses of facilities that violate state and federal care standards. That said, administrative action alone often isn’t enough. A skilled elder abuse attorney can pursue civil litigation against the facility or individual responsible for the harm — ensuring that justice is both seen and felt.
What Happens After You Report Elder Abuse?
Understanding what happens when you report someone for elder abuse can ease uncertainty and help you prepare for the road ahead. Once your report is filed, whether with APS, a Long-Term Care Ombudsman, or local law enforcement, a formal process begins to assess the situation, determine the level of risk, and protect the elderly.
Here’s what typically happens next:
Intake and Initial Review of the Report
After receiving the report, the responsible agency conducts an intake review. They will:
- Determine whether the situation qualifies as elder abuse under California law
- Review the type of abuse alleged (physical, financial, neglect, etc.)
- Decide if the elder is in immediate danger
If the report meets the threshold, an investigation is initiated. If not, the agency may refer the case to a more appropriate resource, which is why it’s helpful to speak with a nursing home neglect lawyer to ensure your concerns are properly documented and escalated.
Investigation and Interviews (Victim, Accused, Witnesses)
Once the case is accepted, a trained investigator is assigned. The process may include:
- Interviewing the elderly victim (if they can speak or communicate)
- Interviewing staff, caregivers, or family members
- Reviewing medical records, incident reports, and facility logs
- Inspecting the elder’s living conditions
Agencies may work in tandem with law enforcement, particularly if criminal activity is suspected. Our nursing home abuse lawyers often support families during this stage by helping gather records, photographs, witness testimony, and other key evidence to support the investigation.
Possible Removal of the Victim from Harm
If the elder is found to be in immediate danger, steps may be taken to remove them from the abusive environment. This may involve:
- Emergency relocation to a safer facility
- Hospitalization
- Appointment of a new guardian or advocate
During this time, having an experienced elder abuse attorney on your side ensures the victim’s rights are protected, and that decisions are made in their best interest, not just what’s easiest for the agency or facility.
Agency Decision — Valid, Invalid, or Ongoing Concern
After the investigation, the agency issues a finding:
- Substantiated/Valid: Evidence supports the abuse claim
- Unsubstantiated/Invalid: Not enough evidence to prove abuse
- Inconclusive/Ongoing: More information is needed, or surveillance continues
Regardless of the outcome, families often find that administrative agencies can only go so far. That’s where Moran Law steps in. If your case involves serious injury, repeated neglect, or wrongful death, our team of elderly abuse attorneys can pursue civil action to hold the responsible parties fully accountable.
Legal Consequences for the Elder Abuse
When elder abuse is confirmed, the consequences can be severe, both criminally and civilly. California law holds abusers, caregivers, and negligent facilities accountable through legal penalties that reflect the harm done to vulnerable seniors. Knowing the full scope of what can happen to someone who commits elder abuse is essential, especially if you’re considering taking legal action.
At Moran Law, our seasoned nursing home abuse attorneys fight to ensure that abusers don’t just face administrative consequences — they face real justice.
Criminal Charges (Assault, Neglect, Financial Exploitation)
If the abuse involves intentional harm, severe neglect, or financial exploitation, prosecutors may pursue criminal charges, which can include:
- Assault and battery for physical abuse
- Elder neglect under California Penal Code §368
- Theft or fraud for financial abuse
- Sexual assault or harassment
Penalties can range from fines and probation to felony convictions and prison time, depending on the severity and circumstances. Law enforcement investigations often work alongside civil cases, and the evidence gathered can strengthen your lawsuit. Our team works closely with victims and families during this process to support prosecution efforts while building a civil claim for compensation.
Civil Liability (Injury, Medical Costs, Pain & Suffering)
In addition to criminal consequences, abusers and negligent facilities may be sued in civil court. A successful civil case can lead to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation or relocation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of dignity or quality of life
- Wrongful death, if abuse resulted in fatal harm
Our lawyers for nursing home abuse are experts in pursuing these claims, especially in cases involving long-term neglect, bedsores, falls, or understaffing. We use medical evidence, facility records, and expert testimony to fight for every dollar your loved one deserves.
Facility Sanctions or License Revocation
When abuse happens inside a licensed facility, such as a nursing home or assisted living center, regulatory agencies may:
- Issue citations or fines
- Place the facility on probation
- Revoke its license to operate
While these actions are important, they don’t compensate victims. That’s why you need a dedicated nursing home neglect lawyer who can hold the facility accountable in civil court, not just rely on state-imposed sanctions.
What to Do If Nothing Happens After You Report
Reporting elder abuse is a courageous step, but what if no one takes action? Unfortunately, some families file a report and never hear back. Others are told there isn’t “enough evidence,” even when obvious signs of neglect or injury are present. When agencies fail to act, it doesn’t mean the abuse didn’t occur. It means it’s time to take the next step: legal action.
When Agencies Fail to Act
Agencies like APS or the Ombudsman Program can be limited by resources, internal policies, or the cooperation of the facility in question. If you:
- Filed a report, but received no update
- Were told your case was closed without investigation
- Still see signs of neglect or harm
Even a dismissed or “unsubstantiated” report does not prevent you from filing a civil claim. Moran Law’s nursing home neglect attorneys investigate what others overlook and act when others don’t.
Why You Should Contact a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
When the government or facility fails to intervene, a skilled nursing home abuse attorney can:
- Launch an independent investigation
- Demand records from the facility
- Interview witnesses or staff
- Identify patterns of abuse or systemic neglect
You deserve more than a report number — you deserve action, answers, and accountability. Our team fights aggressively to get justice for seniors who are being ignored by the very agencies meant to protect them.
How Moran Law Can Help You Pursue Civil Action
Moran Law has successfully represented clients in cases where agencies failed to protect the elderly, and we’ve held facilities legally and financially responsible. With a proven record of elder abuse litigation, including top verdicts and settlements, we:
- Handle every aspect of the case, from investigation to trial
- Work with medical experts and in-house consultants
- Maximize your compensation for pain, suffering, and medical costs
If your report was ignored or dismissed, don’t give up. Our experienced elder abuse attorneys are here to take your case seriously and fight for justice when others won’t.
When to Contact an Elder Abuse Attorney
If you suspect abuse, have already filed a report, or feel that your loved one is in danger, it’s never too early to speak with an experienced elder abuse attorney. Legal guidance is especially critical when agencies are unresponsive, facilities are evasive, or you’re unsure of your rights. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better your chances of preserving evidence, protecting the elder, and building a strong case.
At Moran Law, our team of aggressive and compassionate nursing home abuse lawyers is here to support you through every step.
What Lawyers for Nursing Home Abuse Can Do
Unlike state agencies, a dedicated nursing home abuse attorney works for you. Their job is to:
- Explain your legal rights
- Evaluate the abuse or neglect
- Determine whether you have a valid civil claim
- Represent your loved one in settlement discussions or court proceedings
At Moran Law, our attorneys specialize exclusively in elder abuse and neglect. With years of experience in California courts and a deep understanding of elder law, we know how to hold negligent caregivers and facilities accountable.
Investigating the Abuse and Gathering Evidence
Effective legal action starts with a thorough investigation. Our nursing home neglect lawyers will:
- Review medical records and facility documentation
- Interview witnesses, caregivers, and family members
- Work with our in-house nurse consultant to evaluate care standards
- Collect photos, logs, and other evidence to support your claim
By using a team-based approach, we uncover what others miss — and we build powerful cases that demand attention and action.
Filing a Lawsuit for Compensation and Accountability
Once we’ve gathered evidence, our attorneys may recommend filing a civil lawsuit against the abuser, facility, or other responsible parties. These lawsuits can secure compensation for:
- Hospital bills and rehabilitation
- Emotional trauma and psychological suffering
- Ongoing care needs
- Wrongful death damages (when applicable)
As one of California’s most respected elder law firms, Moran Law has obtained record-setting jury verdicts and arbitration awards. Our results speak for themselves — and our mission is always the same: to protect vulnerable seniors and pursue justice without compromise.
Speak to Moran Law Today
You’ve taken the brave step of asking what happens when you report someone for elder abuse — now it’s time to ensure your loved one receives the protection and justice they deserve. At Moran Law, we don’t just handle elder abuse cases — we lead the fight against it across California.
With decades of experience, award-winning litigation results, and a compassionate, hands-on approach, our firm stands ready to support you and your family through one of the most difficult challenges you may ever face.
Protect Your Loved One’s Rights Now
Every moment matters when a senior is being harmed or neglected. Abuse can escalate quickly, and delays in action may cause further injury or emotional damage. Whether you’ve already filed a report or are unsure where to start, our nursing home abuse lawyers will:
- Listen carefully to your concerns
- Review available facts and evidence
- Guide you on the most effective path forward
We offer clarity, direction, and fierce legal advocacy — because every senior deserves safety, dignity, and respect.
Free Case Review by Elderly Abuse Attorneys
Your first consultation with Moran Law is completely free and confidential. Our skilled elderly abuse attorneys will evaluate your case, help you understand your rights, and explain whether you have a strong claim. We handle all types of abuse cases, including:
- Physical abuse and assault
- Nursing home neglect and injuries
- Financial exploitation
- Medication errors or chemical restraints
- Wrongful death of a senior
You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’re here to advocate for you, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.
Serving Families Throughout Southern California in Elder Abuse Cases
Moran Law proudly represents clients across Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Diego, San Bernardino, and San Francisco. No matter where your loved one resides or where the abuse occurred, our team is ready to help.
With a proven record of success and a reputation built on trust, Moran Law is your strongest ally in the fight to protect elderly Californians.
Conclusion: Take Action with Confidence — Moran Law Is Here to Help
Understanding what happens when you report someone for elder abuse is the first step toward protecting a vulnerable loved one and holding abusers accountable. Whether the abuse involves physical harm, neglect, emotional trauma, or financial exploitation, reporting it initiates a legal process, but true justice often requires more.
At Moran Law, we go beyond reporting. Our award-winning team of nursing home abuse attorneys has the experience, resources, and determination to investigate, litigate, and win elder abuse cases across California. From the moment you reach out, you’ll have powerful legal advocates by your side, fighting for the dignity, safety, and rights of your family member.
Don’t wait for the system to act. If your loved one has been harmed in a nursing home, assisted living facility, or by a caregiver, contact Moran Law today at (714) 549-0333 for a free, confidential consultation.
You are not alone. We are your advocates — every step of the way.
