How Long Does a Nursing Home Abuse Case Usually Take?

It's crucial to understand that while we strive for swift justice, the timeline for these cases can vary significantly depending on various factors. Uncovering nursing home abuse is a traumatic experience, and the legal aftermath can feel just as harrowing. One of the questions we often encounter at The Law Offices of John M. McCabe is: How long does a nursing home abuse case usually take?

How Long Does a Nursing Home Abuse Case Usually Take?

Nursing home abuse is a serious issue that affects thousands of elderly individuals every year. If you suspect that your loved one has been a victim of abuse, you may be wondering how long it will take to resolve the case and hold the responsible parties accountable.

The Initial Investigation and Filing of the Lawsuit

The first step in any nursing home abuse case is the initial investigation. This process involves collecting evidence, speaking with witnesses, and obtaining medical records, which can take a few weeks to several months.

Once enough evidence is gathered, a lawsuit can be filed. The nursing home and involved parties are served with the legal documents and given a specific timeframe to respond, generally within 20 to 30 days.

Discovery Phase

After the lawsuit is filed, the case enters the discovery phase. During this time, both sides can request documents, conduct depositions, and gather further evidence. This process is crucial to building a strong case but can be time-consuming. For complex cases, the discovery phase might last up to a year or longer. You nursing home abuse lawyer will communicate where your case is at in the discovery phase.

Negotiation and Settlement

In many instances, once discovery is completed and both sides have a clear understanding of the case, negotiations for a potential settlement may begin. This can range from weeks to several months depending on the willingness of both parties to negotiate and agree on a settlement amount.

Trial

If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will go to trial. The duration of the trial can greatly vary depending on the case's complexity, but it generally takes a few days to a few weeks. However, keep in mind that it may take several months to get a trial date due to court scheduling.

Appeals

If the losing party decides to appeal the verdict, this can extend the timeline even further, potentially adding another year or more to the process.

Contact The Law Offices of John M. McCabe

At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, we understand the emotional strain that nursing home abuse cases place on families, and we commit ourselves to navigate these proceedings as swiftly as justice allows. Our primary goal is to ensure a thorough representation of your case, no matter how long it takes. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or require legal assistance.