No Excuse for Elder Abuse

This segment of The Law and You features Eugene, Oregon personal injury trial lawyer Lara Johnson discussing a movement in Oregon that helps protect elderly citizens from abuse or neglect.

TRANSCRIPT

JOEL: This is Joel Block for The Law and You with Eugene attorney Lara Johnson. Lara, Oregon has laws to protect our senior citizens. Will you tell us what that means for the elderly and their families?

LARA: Yes, Joel. We are part of a movement called “No Excuse for Elder Abuse.” Elder abuse includes theft, misuse of legal documents, like a Power of Attorney, neglect by a caregiver and even physical abuse. As attorneys, we have represented many elderly people who have been neglected or abused. In Oregon the statute of limitations on many types of elder abuse was recently increased to 6 years. This is because perpetrators can hide the evidence, particularly if the victim has memory or communication issues. If you suspect abuse, you should report it immediately, so the case can be investigated, and that helps to prevent additional abuse from occurring.

JOEL: Thanks, Lara. You can find more about elder abuse laws and case examples in Lara’s video at CorsonJohnsonLaw.com. The Law and You is a part of Corson & Johnson’s work to Make Communities Safer.

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.