How does elder abuse become a civil or criminal case?
Elder abuse can be a criminal or civil case depending on the nature of the abuse. When the abuse causes severe physical or emotional harm, criminal charges may be filed by the state of Florida. This is either done by the elder’s family or law enforcement. The criminal court system can then determine if the abuser should serve jail time or pay a fine or restitution. In some cases, criminal charges may not be an option if the abuse does not meet the criminal code’s definition of a crime. In this case, the elder or their family may file a civil lawsuit in order to seek justice for the elder. Civil courts have the power to order the abuser to pay monetary damages to the elder for the harm they have caused. This money can be used to cover medical expenses, counseling costs, and other costs associated with the abuse. Additionally, civil courts can order the abuser to cease their contact with the victim or discontinue the abusive behavior. Elder abuse can be a serious and traumatic experience, and the justice system is in place to ensure that the victims are protected and compensated for any harm that has been inflicted upon them. The decision to pursue a criminal or civil case should be discussed with an attorney who specializes in elder law. With their guidance, victims and families can determine the best legal action to take in order to ensure the safety of elderly individuals.
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