Protecting the Rights and Dignity of Staten Island’s Elderly

When you trust a nursing home, assisted living facility, or caregiver in Staten Island with the care of a loved one, you expect them to be treated with compassion and dignity. Sadly, elder abuse is far too common in New York, and Staten Island is no exception. If you suspect harm, a Staten Island elder abuse lawyer at Menkes Law Firm can help protect your loved one’s rights and hold the responsible parties accountable.

For more than 30 years, our firm has fought for families across the New York metro area. We purposely keep our caseload small so every client receives the personal attention they deserve.

What Elder Abuse Looks Like

Elder abuse is not always obvious, but it can take many forms. In Staten Island facilities, whether larger nursing homes in areas like New Dorp or smaller assisted living centers in communities such as Tottenville, warning signs may appear as:

• Unexplained injuries such as bruises or broken bones;
• Rapid weight loss, dehydration, or malnutrition;
• Repeated infections or untreated bedsores;
• Overmedication or frequent medication errors;
• Intimidation, humiliation, or sudden withdrawal; 
• Missing personal property or suspicious financial activity.
  

If you recognize these indicators, consulting an experienced elder abuse attorney is an important step toward protecting your loved one.

Why Legal Action May Be Needed

Families can file complaints with the New York State Department of Health or the local Long Term Care Ombudsman Program. These agencies investigate, but they cannot secure compensation for harm already done. That is why pursuing a lawsuit with the help of a Staten Island elder law attorney may be necessary.

Through legal action, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to injuries or neglect;
• Pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life;
• Financial losses from exploitation; and
• Punitive damages to punish wrongdoing, in egregious cases.

Our team works diligently to investigate what happened, identify those responsible, and build a strong case on your behalf.

Why Local Knowledge Matters

Staten Island is unique within New York City. With fewer facilities than Manhattan or Queens, residents often rely on a smaller group of nursing homes and assisted living centers, many located in areas like West Brighton, Huguenot, and St. George. Hospitals such as Staten Island University Hospital and Richmond University Medical Center frequently treat seniors for injuries that may have originated in long-term care facilities.

Having a Staten Island elder abuse lawyer who understands local resources and court systems can help your family avoid delays in valuable evidence gathering and build the strongest possible case for accountability. 

Steps to Take If You Suspect Abuse

If you think your loved one is being mistreated, it is important to act quickly. You should:

• Ensure their immediate safety, including calling 911 or seeking care at a trusted Staten Island hospital in urgent cases;
• Document what you observe, including injuries, changes in behavior, or unsafe conditions;
• Keep copies of medical records and written communication with the facility;
• Report concerns to state regulators or ombudsman programs; and
• Contact an attorney to understand your legal rights and options.

By working with a Staten Island elder law attorney, you can take swift action to protect your loved one and hold negligent caregivers accountable.

Why Families Trust Menkes Law Firm

At Menkes Law Firm, we believe every client deserves direct attention and honest communication. We are not a large corporate practice where cases are handed off to junior staff. Instead, we limit the number of cases we accept so we can focus fully on each client’s needs. Families choose us because:

• We bring over 30 years of experience handling elder abuse and personal injury claims;
• We have secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements, including one of New York’s top ten verdicts in 2017;
• We listen to our clients, answer questions, and remain accessible throughout the case; and
• We approach every claim with the dedication and care it deserves.

Our mission is to help seniors receive the dignity and protection they deserve while seeking justice for their families.

Speak with a Staten Island Elder Abuse Lawyer Today

If you suspect abuse or neglect in a Staten Island nursing home, assisted living center, or through in-home care, do not wait to get help. Early action can protect your loved one and strengthen your case.

Contact Menkes Law Firm today to speak with a Staten Island elder abuse lawyer. We will listen to your concerns, explain your options, and provide the personal advocacy that defines our firm. We have secured some of New York’s most significant verdicts, and we personally manage every case so clients always receive direct attention and relentless representation.

About the Author

Sheryl Menkes

Attorney At Law

View Sheryl’s Bio