Are you a defendant facing charges for elder abuse in Lexington, KY? Allegations like these can quickly put your reputation, career, and freedom on the line, so getting skilled legal help right away is important. Call Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers at (859) 569-4014 for advice and support.
When you’re facing charges in Lexington, Kentucky, we’re here to help. Working with us means you have representation from a respected, determined team that knows what’s at stake. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington elder abuse defense lawyer.
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Why Hire Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers if You’re Arrested for Elder Abuse?
When you’re facing elder abuse charges in Lexington, KY, nothing matters more than who’s in your corner – your future, your reputation, and your peace of mind depend on it. Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers is built on advocacy that gives ordinary people a fighting chance against tough prosecutors.
Here is what sets us apart from the competition:
- We are recognized by the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and routinely included in the Super Lawyers list for our results and dedication.
- With a 10.0 Avvo rating reflecting our track record and client feedback, you know you’ll be heard and your story will be presented.
- Our goal is to resolve the case as favorably as possible, which may mean fighting for a dismissal or negotiating plea deals.
- We have over 100 years of combined experience, including former police officers and prosecutors on our team.
- We have handled nearly every kind of criminal charge in Lexington, Kentucky.
Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington elder abuse defense attorney.
Overview of Elder Abuse in Kentucky
Elder abuse in care facilities is a serious issue, and accusations can stem from a wide range of situations. Below are some of the most common types of elder abuse that can be prosecuted:
- Physical harm: Deliberate hitting, slapping, pinching, or overusing restraints. Ignoring a resident’s physical care and safety needs also falls into this category.
- Sexual misconduct: Any unwanted or non-consensual sexual contact or acts.
- Emotional abuse: Yelling, shaming, belittling, or other verbal attacks that cause severe anxiety or emotional distress for the resident.
- Financial abuse: Caregivers stealing money, forging checks, misusing bank accounts, or pressuring residents to alter wills or sign over property.
- Neglect: Not providing regular hygiene, adequate food or water, needed medications, or medical treatment.
If you’re dealing with elder abuse charges, it’s important to reach out to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
What Are the Penalties for Elder Abuse in Lexington, Kentucky?
Elder abuse charges in Kentucky carry serious legal consequences that depend on the type and intent of the act. They are generally as follows:
- Violating patient protection laws: If someone knowingly disobeys federal or state laws designed to protect patients or residents, they can be found guilty of a Class B misdemeanor. This crime may result in up to 90 days in jail, and each incident can be charged as a separate offense.
- Knowing abuse or neglect: Deliberately abusing or neglecting a patient is classified as a Class C felony. This conviction can mean a prison term ranging from 5 to 10 years.
- Purposeful abuse or neglect: When the abuse or neglect is deemed intentional, but not proven to the higher standard of “knowing,” the charge is a Class D felony. A conviction carries between 1 and 5 years in jail.
- Reckless abuse or neglect: Acts of recklessness, when someone fails to show proper caution in the care of an elderly person, result in a Class A misdemeanor. Those convicted could spend up to one year behind bars.
- Financial exploitation over $300: If someone exploits a patient and the financial loss surpasses $300, penalties can range quite a bit. This can be treated as a Class C or D felony, or in less severe cases, a Class A misdemeanor. Penalties will vary by the amount lost and the details of the exploitation.
The penalties for any kind of elder abuse are incredibly serious and shouldn’t be handled alone.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Elder Abuse?
If you’re arrested for elder abuse in Kentucky, there are several defenses that your attorney may be able to pursue, often including:
- False accusations: Sometimes accusations are made out of misunderstanding, family conflict, or even revenge. If there are inconsistencies in the story or a lack of reliable proof, your defense lawyer can challenge the credibility of the claim.
- Lack of intent: Certain elder abuse charges require prosecutors to prove that you acted knowingly or deliberately. If you were unaware of a situation or acted without harmful intent, your defense can point out the absence of this element.
- Insufficient evidence: To convict, the state must have evidence showing neglect, harm, or exploitation. If records, witness accounts, or photos do not prove abuse beyond a reasonable doubt, you could be acquitted.
- Accident or normal medical complications: Elderly patients can develop bruises, sores, or injuries for reasons unrelated to abuse, such as poor circulation or side effects from medication. Demonstrating this can help explain injuries without faulting the accused.
With the right legal support, you have the chance to protect yourself and clear your name.
Allegations of elder abuse in Lexington, KY, are extremely serious and can impact every area of your life. The laws in Kentucky carry tough penalties, and navigating these charges without the right support often leads to mistakes.
If you are facing an investigation or criminal charges, you deserve guidance from a team that truly understands the legal process and takes the time to look at every detail. Contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Lexington elder abuse defense lawyer.
