If you, a family member or a friend has been the victim of abuse in a nursing home or assisted living facility, finding the right elder abuse lawyer can sometimes be an overwhelming ordeal. When selecting an elder abuse lawyer, there are some important traits and characteristics to be on the lookout for. On this page, we will reveal what the 10 things to look for in an elder abuse lawyer are.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Experience
When thinking about hiring an elder abuse lawyer, experience should be one of the first things you consider. Physical and emotional abuse is a serious and sensitive matter. Hiring someone with previous dealings in these matters will help you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to. An experienced attorney can also help guide you through the recovery process.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Background and Education
Like with experience, an attorney possessing a background in handling elder abuse cases can be beneficial for many reasons. An attorney educated and well-versed in handling abuse-related cases is an invaluable weapon against the attorneys employed by nursing homes and other residential facilities.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Analytical Skills
A lawyer dealing with any subject matter needs to have superior analytical skills. Evidence, physical or otherwise, will be the backbone of an abuse case. The ability of an elder abuse lawyer to process the information will be critical to your chances of winning a case.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Perseverance
When selecting an elder abuse lawyer, you will want to find someone who will use all their resources to ensure that justice is served. Admitting that you were abused takes a great deal of strength and inner resolve. Your lawyer should have the same attitude, level of perseverance and determination.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Poise
An abuse lawyer needs to be able to think clearly and logically when dealing with sensitive, high-pressure cases. They aren’t just fighting for your rights; they are also fighting to protect patients from future incidents of abuse. Their ability to remain cool, calm, collected and poised is paramount.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Reading/Writing Skills
An elder abuse lawyer must possess top-notch reading and writing skills in order to be successful. Reviewing legal documents and other information, as well as preparing compelling briefs and arguments will go a long way in determining the outcome of a case.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Creativity
A competent and successful lawyer must have a certain level of creativity. Problems and situations will undoubtedly arise during any case, and the ability to work through these instances in a creative manner is imperative.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Confidence
You would never pick someone for a team who doesn’t think they could win a game, so why would you select an attorney who doesn’t believe you will win your case? An attorney’s confidence can not only instill a sense of assurance in you, but it can also instill a lack of confidence in your opponent.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Public Speaking Ability
When selecting an elder abuse lawyer, you want to find someone who will stand up and speak out on your behalf. Stellar public speaking skills are a must for an attorney because they will serve as your mouthpiece during the litigation process.
Elder Abuse Lawyer: Preparedness
A great elder abuse lawyer will do an extensive amount of research before any part of the litigation process gets underway. An attorney representing you should never be caught off guard and should be prepared to deal with anything that comes their way.