Elder Abuse Reporting

This segment of The Law and You features personal injury trial lawyer Lara Johnson encouraging reporting of abuse of elderly clients in care facilities or private homes.

TRANSCRIPT

JOEL: This is Joel Block for The Law and You with Eugene attorney Lara Johnson. Lara, when an elderly person is abused or neglected, what legal help is available?

LARA: Every year in Oregon, thousands of elderly people are reported as abused or neglected not only in care facilities, but also private homes. Many more go unreported. Elder abuse is a serious crime punishable by law. Oregon law requires individuals in many professions–law enforcement officers, medical providers, and clergy among others– to report any elder abuse. However, anyone can and should report it to the local Seniors and Disabled Services office. In Eugene, their phone number is 682 4038. Reporting can be made confidentially and anyone who makes a report in good faith has legal protection from criminal and civil liability.

JOEL: Thanks, Lara. If you would like to know more about reporting elder abuse, visit CorsonJohnsonLaw.com. The Law and You is a community service and does not replace the advice of an attorney.

The Corson & Johnson Law Firm, an Oregon personal injury trial law firm, produced and distributed The Law and You as a public service to help families and consumers answer questions about our legal system and how it works for them. The Law and You spots were aired on KKNU, KMGE, KEUG, and KODZ.  Please note that laws may have changed since a public service spot was aired.  If you have suggestions for legal questions or topics you would like addressed, please contact us.