New Law Will Limit Nursing Home Residents' Rights

The rights of residents of nursing homes are about to change because of a new law approved this year by the West Virginia Legislature. Under pressure from nursing homes, legislators passed Senate Bill 338, which will take effect in July.

The new law will limit the number of places where victims of nursing home abuse can file lawsuits. It also will require such lawsuits to be filed within one year of an incident of abuse, which is half the time now available.

As a result, anyone considering legal action in response to nursing home abuse should act soon.

Many things qualify as nursing home abuse. Among the problems that should be considered are: falls that result in disability, functional decline and reduced quality of life; bedsores, which can lead to more serious conditions; malnutrition; dehydration; and staffing shortages that contribute to the other problems mentioned here.

If you suspect that a loved one in a nursing home has been abused or mistreated, don't wait until July to seek justice. Seek legal help soon to preserve the rights you currently have. Consider calling leaders in the field, such as The Bell Law Firm of Charleston, which has successfully represented many families in cases against nursing homes on behalf of abused and neglected elderly residents and their families. The initial consultation is free, and The Bell Law Firm gets paid only if the case is won. Getting ready to place a loved one in a nursing home?

Call for a free document review. More information is available toll-free at 800-342-1701 or at: www.BellLaw.com.