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There is a significant elder population in Florida, especially in Miami. Many of these residents rely on direct care from their loved ones or staff members at nursing homes. Since elder abuse has become one of the fastest-growing crimes in the state, it is not uncommon for caregivers and family members to be falsely charged with senior abuse.
If you have been accused of abusing the elderly or disabled, an elderly abuse attorney at Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A. can listen to your side of the story, collect evidence, and build a strong and personalized defense strategy on your behalf.
According to Florida law, elder abuse is defined as physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse or neglect inflicted on a person who is at least 60 years of age. A person can also be charged with elder abuse for encouraging another individual to commit elder abuse.
When elder abuse doesn’t result in great bodily injury or permanent disability, it is a third-degree felony, punishable by a maximum five-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $5,000. When the abuse involves great bodily injury or permanent disability, it is considered a first-degree felony, which carries a maximum 30-year prison term and a fine not exceeding $10,000.
Neglect that doesn’t involve great bodily injury or permanent disability is a third-degree felony. However, when neglect involves great bodily injury or permanent disability, it is a second-degree felony, which is punishable by a maximum 15-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $10,000.
When it comes to financial exploitation, if property that is valued at less than $10,000 is stolen, it is a third-degree felony. If the crime involves property valued between $10,000 and less than $50,000, it is a second-degree felony. Lastly, if the crime involves property valued at $50,000 or more, it is a first-degree felony.
Since elder abuse is considered a felony offense in Florida, having an experienced elderly abuse attorney in your corner from start to finish can help you get the best possible outcome. With more than 50 years of experience, our elderly abuse attorney has the skills necessary to defend your rights in a case like this.