Document everything. Take photos of injuries, keep a log of your conversations with staff, and contact an Oakland nursing home abuse lawyer to discuss your options.
Oakland Nursing Home Abuse
What if the facility is already being investigated by the state?
A state citation is a powerful piece of evidence, but it does not provide compensation for your family or pay for medical bills. Our firm uses those citations as a foundation to build a civil case for damages.
Will the facility retaliate against my loved one if I sue?
Retaliation is illegal. If you fear retaliation, we can assist in documenting these concerns and involving the appropriate regulatory agencies to ensure the resident’s safety while the legal process moves forward.
How long do I have to file a nursing home abuse lawsuit in Oakland?
The statutes of limitations vary depending on the facts of the case. It is best to consult an attorney as soon as you suspect harm to ensure your family's rights are protected.
What is the difference between medical malpractice and elder abuse?
Medical malpractice generally involves a professional error by a doctor or nurse. Elder abuse, specifically under California law, involves "neglect," which is the failure of those in charge of an elder to provide the basic care necessary to avoid physical harm or...
Does it cost anything to speak with an attorney?
No. Stebner, Gertler, & Guadagni provides initial consultations at no cost. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only receive payment if we successfully recover compensation for you.
The nursing home says the fall was “unavoidable.” Is that true?
This is a common defense. Nursing homes often claim bedsores or falls are inevitable. Our job is to prove that these events were preventable and occurred because the facility failed to follow its own care plans or state-mandated protocols.
Can I still file a case if my loved one has dementia?
Yes. In fact, many victims of elder abuse have cognitive impairments. We rely on physical evidence, medical records, and witness testimony to build a case even when the victim cannot testify about what happened to them.
How do I prove a facility was understaffed?
We obtain internal documents called "Cost Reports" and payroll data that facilities are required to submit to the government. By comparing these to the actual needs of the residents, we can demonstrate where the facility failed to provide enough hands to keep people...


