Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers in Columbus

Understanding Ohio Laws & Residents’ Rights With Our Nursing Home Attorneys in Columbus

Ohio law provides significant protections for individuals residing in nursing homes, including those in Columbus. Every nursing facility in Ohio must abide by the state’s Nursing Home Resident Bill of Rights, which outlines the rights to privacy, dignity, and high-quality medical care for each resident. The Ohio Department of Health is responsible for licensing and routinely inspecting these facilities, responding to complaints, and investigating allegations of nursing home abuse or neglect. If a loved one resides in a Columbus-area nursing home, understanding this legal framework is crucial to recognizing both lawful and unlawful care standards. At Rourke & Blumenthal, our team draws on over 150 years of combined experience advocating for clients and maintains up-to-date knowledge of local and state regulations impacting nursing home safety.

As we age, we continually count on others to provide support and assistance to us. When elderly individuals are in need of constant care, they often start living in nursing homes. Many nursing homes provide compassionate, attentive, and caring support to their elderly residents. However, some instances occur were the caretakers fail in their duties, causing pain and suffering to the elderly. Not only that, but they may intentional and maliciously mistreat residents, abusing their rights and neglecting their needs.

With more than 150 years of combined legal experience, we know how to handle all types of nursing home neglect cases. Our Columbus nursing home neglect lawyers provide dedicated and compassionate legal counsel every step of the way for our clients. When you work with us, you can rest assured that we will keep you informed and aware of each advancement in your case.

If your loved one has been neglected or mistreated in their nursing home, you have the right to take action. Rourke & Blumenthal is committed to protecting the rights of the elderly. Call us at (614) 321-3212 

Identifying Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect

Our Columbus nursing home abuse lawyers know how stressful it can be to discover signs of mistreatment or neglect. That’s why we offer the guidance and support you need, starting with thorough, knowledgeable advice from the first phone call.

In Columbus and throughout Ohio, being able to recognize the signs of nursing home abuse, neglect, or mistreatment is crucial for safeguarding your loved one’s health and dignity. Residents of nursing homes in the area are entitled to attentive, dignified care under both Ohio and federal law. Unfortunately, abuse sometimes goes unnoticed or unreported because families are unfamiliar with the warning signs or unsure how to respond. Carefully monitor changes in your loved one's physical condition or emotional well-being to detect potential indications of neglect or abuse.

The following are common signs of neglect or abuse in nursing homes:

• Severe weight loss
• Poor hygiene
• Bed sores
• Improper medication
• Malnutrition and/or dehydration
• Injuries, such as fractures from falls
• Lack of sanitary conditions
• Medical negligence by medical staff

Other issues to look out for include theft, sexual assault, and physical abuse from medical staff, workers, or other individuals. It can also be helpful to understand what the different types of nursing home abuse are so you can be vigilant for them.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect in Columbus

Recognizing signs of nursing home abuse or neglect in a Columbus facility is only the first step; knowing how to act decisively is just as important. If you suspect mistreatment, thoroughly document all evidence, such as dates, times, and descriptions of injuries or behavioral changes. 

Whenever possible, take photographs of visible injuries or unsanitary conditions. Report your concerns immediately to the nursing home's administration and request that a formal, written report be completed. If the issue is not adequately addressed, you have the right to contact Ohio agencies—such as the Ohio Department of Health or the Long-Term Care Ombudsman—to seek outside investigation or intervention. Being thorough and proactive from the onset will help protect your loved one and provide crucial support if you pursue legal action with a nursing home negligence attorney in Columbus.

At Rourke & Blumenthal, our nursing home abuse attorneys in Columbus guide you through each phase of this process. We are well-versed in handling Columbus-area nursing home cases and appreciate the urgency and sensitivity families experience when abuse or neglect is suspected.

Contact Our Firm. We Don't Charge Any Upfront Fees!

Rourke & Blumenthal also works on a contingency fee basis, allowing you to get the legal representation you need without paying upfront. We only get paid if we win money damages for your situation.

The process of pursuing a nursing home abuse or neglect claim in Columbus can be overwhelming, especially when facing corporate defendants with substantial resources. Our nursing home abuse attorneys in Columbus and nursing home neglect lawyers are familiar with the procedures used by Franklin County courts and the protocols followed by agencies such as the Ohio Department of Health and Adult Protective Services in Central Ohio.

How Columbus Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Cases Are Investigated

When a report of nursing home abuse or neglect is filed in a Columbus facility, the case is investigated by the Ohio and local agencies. Most often, the Ohio Department of Health leads these investigations, assigning trained inspectors to examine records, interview staff and residents, and assess whether the nursing home is compliant with both state and federal laws. Agencies such as Adult Protective Services may also become involved to ensure the resident’s immediate safety. By Ohio law, all nursing facilities must cooperate fully with these investigations. 

The outcomes of these agency investigations can significantly impact your Columbus nursing home abuse case. Agencies may issue citations, fines, or penalties if they confirm deficiencies, and their documentation may become vital evidence during legal proceedings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If My Loved One Is in Immediate Danger at a Columbus Nursing Home?

If you believe your loved one faces an immediate threat at a nursing home in Columbus, call 911 immediately to alert emergency responders and law enforcement. Emergency authorities can respond quickly and take the necessary measures to remove the resident from a dangerous environment. 

Once the situation is stabilized, report the incident to the Ohio Department of Health or Adult Protective Services so an official investigation can begin. The legal team at Rourke & Blumenthal can assist you with urgent legal action, supporting your family as you cooperate with agencies and helping safeguard your loved one’s safety and legal rights.

How Long Do I Have to File a Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit in Ohio?

In Ohio, the statute of limitations for nursing home abuse or neglect cases is generally two years from the date the injury or harm was discovered. Certain circumstances may affect the statutory period, such as when injuries are not obvious or the victim cannot communicate the harm. To meet Ohio’s legal requirements and maximize your chances for a successful claim, consult a nursing home abuse attorney in Columbus as soon as possible. At Rourke & Blumenthal, we promptly assess your case, preserve evidence, and offer step-by-step guidance on all timing issues relevant to Franklin County and Central Ohio claims.

What Types of Damages Can Be Recovered in a Columbus Nursing Home Abuse Case?

In a successful nursing home abuse or neglect lawsuit in Columbus, damages may include compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and, when warranted, punitive damages intended to deter similar misconduct. Columbus courts may consider both short-term injuries and long-term impacts, such as loss of quality of life or ongoing care needs. 

Each case is unique, so a thorough review of medical records, agency investigation reports, and all pertinent evidence is necessary. The nursing home abuse attorneys at Rourke & Blumenthal are dedicated to pursuing comprehensive compensation for the full range of harm suffered by your loved one—addressing every factor that contributes to your family’s recovery and well-being.

Contact us and let us start working on your case today.