Sexual Abuse: Nursing Home Sexual Abuse Lawyer, California / Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes and Care Facilities 

Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes and Care Facilities

Sexual abuse of a resident must be reported within hours under California law; a nursing home sexual abuse lawyer holds the facility accountable for screening, supervision, and reporting.

Residents who cannot speak for themselves are the most vulnerable to sexual abuse by staff or other residents. Residents with dementia cannot consent and often cannot report. Unexplained bruising or bleeding in private areas, new fear of a particular person, torn clothing, withdrawal, or infections can be signs. Staff in licensed facilities are mandated reporters: suspected abuse with serious injury must be reported to law enforcement within two hours, and otherwise within 24 hours (Welfare and Institutions Code section 15630).

What We Investigate

• Staff background checks

• Whether and when the facility reported to licensing and law enforcement

• Supervision of residents with known behaviors

• Prior complaints against the same staff member

What Families Can Do

• Take any sign seriously

• Report to the administrator, the long-term care ombudsman, and law enforcement

• Ask for a medical examination

• Preserve clothing and photographs