Only 31% of sexually-based assaults are reported to law enforcement, and of those, most are not reported immediately. Although Virginia does not impose a deadline for filing police reports for sexual assault, state laws do set filing deadlines for both the criminal and civil prosecution of sexual abuse cases. The statutes of limitations do, however,…
Parents spend their entire lives caring for their children. As parents grow older, family roles often reverse, and children gradually become the caregivers, offering their parents the same attention and support they once received. While most adult children do not have a problem assisting their elderly parents, some senior citizens need more than just occasional…
When pursuing legal action, sexual assault survivors commonly face enormous emotional hurdles. Sadly, the legal process itself can be retraumatizing and intimidating if not handled sensitively. At Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Alexandria sexual abuse lawyers handle sexual abuse cases with a trauma-informed approach, compassion, and extensive experience. Working with a trauma-informed attorney can make a…
Medical negligence is an issue affecting many people in Virginia. Patients who have been injured by medical negligence in Virginia can seek compensation, however state law determines and sometimes limits how much money can be awarded by a jury or a judge. Virginia’s cap on medical malpractice is set by statute, and it applies even…
Placing a loved one in a nursing home is an act of trust. Families expect that their parent, grandparent, or spouse will be safe, cared for, and treated with dignity. But when neglect or abuse happens, that trust is shattered. For many families, the first question is not only “how could this happen?” but “what…
Mike Hollingsworth is Co-Chair of the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association (VTLA) Amicus Curiae Committee, and served as counsel in Lee v. Manson (Record No. 0306-24-2), where the Court of Appeals issued an important published decision reversing a defense verdict and remanding for a new trial. The case is here: https://www.vacourts.gov/static/opinions/opncavwp/0306242.pdf. In medical malpractice cases, providers often…
When you go to a doctor, you expect answers. You trust that your concerns will be taken seriously and that you’ll receive the proper tests, diagnosis, and treatment. But what if something goes wrong? What if a condition is missed entirely or diagnosed far too late? Can you sue for misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis in…
If you’re considering a sexual abuse lawsuit in Virginia, remember that no one should have to face this alone. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or uncertain about what lies ahead. Taking legal action is a deeply personal and often emotional decision. But knowing what to expect can help you regain a sense of control and…
Financial abuse of the elderly is one of the most common and underreported forms of elder abuse. It can happen slowly over time or in a single, devastating act. In either case, the consequences are serious: lost savings, unpaid bills, and emotional harm. At Hollingsworth PLLC, we help families across Virginia understand and respond to…
Choosing a nursing home for yourself or a loved one is never easy. You want peace of mind that the facility will provide a safe, respectful, and dignified environment. While many nursing homes deliver excellent care, others fall short, leading to legal concerns that families must understand and be prepared to address. At Hollingsworth PLLC,…
Bringing a child into the world should be a joyful experience. But when a preventable mistake during labor or delivery causes a birth injury, that joy can quickly turn into fear and uncertainty. Fortunately, in Virginia, families in this situation may have legal options for holding medical providers accountable. Understanding how birth injury lawsuits work…
Survivors of sexual abuse often face an incredibly difficult journey toward justice. For many, the decision to come forward can take years, sometimes decades. Unfortunately, legal deadlines known as statutes of limitations can pose a significant barrier to filing civil lawsuits in Virginia. Understanding how these time limits work is essential for survivors and their…
Under Virginia law, a power of attorney, conservatorship, and guardianship serve distinct—but sometimes overlapping—functions in managing the affairs of adults who are, or may become, incapacitated. Understanding the legal and practical differences among them is essential for families navigating elder care, progressive illness, or unexpected medical crises. Power of Attorney: A Preventive Tool Everyone Should…
Whether minor or complex, undergoing surgery is a significant event in anyone’s life. You trust that the surgical team will perform their duties skillfully, cautiously, and professionally. Unfortunately, that trust is sometimes broken. Surgical errors are among the most serious forms of medical malpractice and can lead to lasting harm or even death. In Virginia,…
Caring for an aging loved one is never easy, and when families entrust a nursing home or caregiver with that responsibility, they expect compassionate, professional care. Sadly, elder neglect is a growing concern across Virginia, and when that trust is broken, families are often left wondering what legal options they have. What Is Elder Neglect?…
In Virginia medical malpractice cases, expert witnesses often play a pivotal role in determining the outcome. These professionals help the court assess whether a healthcare provider’s actions met—or fell below—the accepted standard of care. Without their testimony, many cases would not stand a chance. In this blog, we’ll explore why expert witnesses are so crucial,…
Most law firms will reject your medical malpractice, nursing home, or sexual abuse case right off the bat unless the victim (you or a loved one) is dead or severely and permanently injured–not because your experience doesn’t matter, but because they’re focused on high-dollar outcomes that justify their overhead. This law firm takes a more…
The American healthcare system has significantly evolved over the past few decades, with an increasing number of hospitals and healthcare facilities transitioning to a for-profit model. While every healthcare provider should strive to deliver high-quality care, the growth of profit-driven medical institutions has sparked serious concerns about patient safety and the prioritization of financial gain…
Filing a lawsuit for sexual abuse can feel both overwhelming and empowering. However, these claims are more than just pursuing compensation. They represent a courageous and resolute effort to reclaim your rights and dignity. By standing up and taking legal action, you advocate for yourself while also confronting the systemic injustices that too often silence…
During surgical procedures, the administration of anesthesia is a critical component that ensures the comfort and safety of patients. Anesthesia relieves pain and keeps patients unconscious and immobile during surgery, enabling surgeons to operate with precision. However, when errors occur in the anesthesia process—whether due to dosage miscalculations, improper monitoring, or equipment failure—the consequences can…
Childhood sexual abuse is a crime that inflicts lifelong harm. Survivors of abuse often carry the weight of trauma for decades before they are able to confront what happened to them. If you were sexually abused as a child in Virginia—whether by a father, coach, mentor, teacher, clergy member, or any other adult—you have the…
If you’re expecting a baby, you may hear about Pitocin, a drug used to start or speed up labor. While it can help in some situations, it also carries risks. One major concern is that improper use of Pitocin can lead to oxygen deprivation, which may cause cerebral palsy (CP). Knowing the risks and what to watch…
Medical malpractice cases occur when patients suffer injuries due to the negligence of a healthcare provider. This negligence can manifest in various ways, such as misdiagnoses, surgical mistakes, and substandard treatment. When a medical malpractice case goes to court, the judge’s or jury’s decision can greatly influence the injured party’s financial circumstances. Compensation amounts can…
Breast cancer screening is an essential part of early detection, and mammograms play a crucial role. However, many women don’t realize that breast density can affect how well a mammogram detects cancer. This is why understanding breast density and its impact on screening is important. What is Breast Density? Breast density refers to the amount…
Medical malpractice cases are among the most challenging legal claims. They require patience, thorough investigation, dedication, and expert testimony. We are here to guide you through every step of the process. This is how we handle our medical malpractice cases. Each case is unique, but this will give you a general understanding of the process….
Early detection is crucial for improving cancer outcomes and survival rates. Unfortunately, even with regular health check-ups, cancer can sometimes be missed during routine screenings and exams, which can lead to serious consequences. If you recently learned from a healthcare provider that a cancer diagnosis was overlooked, you may be feeling confused, frustrated, and anxious…
A new piece of legislation, dubbed the ‘Sexual Assault Employer Accountability Act’ (HB 1730), could fundamentally reshape employer liability in Virginia when it comes to sexual assault committed by employees or agents. Historically, under Virginia common law, employers were rarely held responsible for an employee’s intentional criminal acts unless those acts were committed within the course and…
If you’ve experienced sexual abuse, you may wonder whether you can still seek justice, especially if the abuse happened years ago. A recent case, Jurnigan v. Byrum from the Virginia Court of Appeals, sheds light on how courts handle claims involving sexual abuse and the statutes of limitations that apply. In this case, the plaintiff was…
When a family suffers from harm or a tragic loss due to abuse or neglect in a Virginia nursing facility, they can seek legal action to hold those responsible accountable. A nursing home lawsuit in Virginia can help secure compensation to cover various costs, such as medical treatment for injuries, expenses related to moving to…
When your loved one enters a nursing home or long-term care facility in Virginia, they do not lose any basic civil or legal rights. In truth, they acquire additional rights protected by both state and federal legislation. These rights are designed to ensure residents receive quality care and enhance their overall quality of life. Understanding…
As our family members age, prioritizing their safety and well-being becomes crucial, particularly due to threats like elder fraud. This form of financial exploitation can severely impact their finances and emotional well-being. To safeguard older relatives effectively, it is important to adopt proactive strategies and remain vigilant about scams they might encounter. In the guide…
Financial exploitation is a serious issue involving the illegal or fraudulent use of an adult’s financial resources. Activities can include stealing money, manipulating individuals for their assets, or misusing property without consent. Perpetrators may include trusted individuals like family or caregivers, as well as scammers targeting the vulnerable. However, the consequences can be devastating. Victims…
Recent studies have highlighted a concerning issue: financial exploitation is emerging as the most prevalent form of elder abuse in the United States. This type of exploitation refers to the illegal or inappropriate use of an older American’s financial resources, including their funds, property, or other valuable assets, often for the personal gain of another…
Crime Victim Rights Litigation is a specialized area of law focused on advocating for individuals harmed by criminal activities. This field covers a wide range of offenses, including assault, sexual assault, domestic violence, and crimes against children. It also addresses the complexities surrounding protective or restraining orders that victims may seek to ensure their safety….
A Virginia Protective Order is a crucial legal measure to safeguard individuals and their families from potential harm. If you have experienced threats, violence, force, or abuse from anyone, including a spouse, family member, co-worker, significant other, or even a stranger, you have the legal right to request a Protective Order. In the below guide,…
Crime victims in Virginia are afforded certain legal rights, including the right to be informed about the progress of their case, the right to be present at court proceedings, and the right to provide input during the sentencing phase. Unfortunately, these rights are not always clearly communicated to victims. That is why victims must have…
When facing the unexpected and challenging situation of dealing with medical malpractice, it is important to be prepared for your initial consultation with a lawyer. Your doctor’s negligence may have significantly impacted your health and career, and the upcoming meeting with an attorney is a crucial step toward seeking justice. In the article below, we…
Most people are aware that parents have a legal responsibility to provide for their children. However, it may come as a surprise that some states also have laws requiring adult children to support their impoverished parents. These laws, known as “filial duties,” are in place in more than half of the states in the United…
The majority of states in the United States, Virginia included, have comprehensive regulations and penalties in place to address the abuse and victimization of older adults. These laws in Virginia specifically outline and enforce rigorous criminal consequences for individuals found guilty of mistreating senior citizens. Elder Abuse Laws in Virginia Elder abuse refers to any…
Elderly individuals have unique legal needs that differ from those of younger adults. Concerns such as health care, caregiving costs, retirement, disability, guardianship, and long-term care are generally more relevant to older adults. That is why many older individuals and their loved ones turn to elder law attorneys who specialize in these legal issues to…
The decision to move a loved one into a nursing home or assisted living facility can be difficult for the whole family. As a result, when individuals learn that injuries, illnesses, infections, and even death can occur in a nursing home due to a failure to provide the legally mandated level of care, the situation…
Many states have taken proactive steps to address nursing home neglect and abuse, and Virginia is no exception. Virginia is particularly unique in its seriousness in addressing nursing home abuse and neglect, as the state has extensively expanded federal nursing home laws to combat this issue. The purpose of these Virginia nursing home laws and…
The relationship between a patient and their doctor is of utmost importance. Unfortunately, this relationship does not stop mistakes from happening. In truth, medical errors cause numerous problems for patients across the country every year. However, if you have been harmed by a healthcare provider, you may be able to seek compensation for the losses…
A radiologist is a doctor who interprets images (like X-Rays and CAT Scans) and relays findings to the patient’s attending doctor. Most of the time, the radiologist who reads your images is not in the same building (or even the same state) as you are when the images are taken. But a recent study published…
Medical malpractice is a legal term for when a healthcare professional’s mistake harms a patient. This could involve an incorrect diagnosis or treatment that leads to injury or illness. In Virginia, a patient may be entitled to financial recovery if they have been harmed by medical malpractice. However, there is a time limit for filing…
Elder law lawyers have a unique focus compared to other attorneys. Rather than specializing in a specific type of legal problem, they prioritize helping a specific group of people. These legal professionals work towards maximizing the independence and quality of life of older individuals. However, to understand what this assistance entails, it is important to…
Medical malpractice lawsuits allow individuals who have suffered harm due to medical negligence to seek compensation from responsible healthcare providers, hospitals, or medical facilities. However, it is crucial to note that there is a time limit for filing such claims, known as the statute of limitations. If you fail to initiate legal proceedings within the…
There is much overlap between elder law and medical malpractice. Elder law deals with issues affecting the aging population, including matters related to health care, long-term care planning, guardianship, retirement, Social Security, and protection against elder abuse. Medical malpractice, on the other hand, involves legal action against a healthcare provider for negligence that results in…
According to The Doctors Company, a major insurance carrier for healthcare providers, lawsuits involving breast cancer are the most common cancer-related claim. Breast cancer is the most common type of non-skin cancer in women in the United States and is second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer death in women. Being female…
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer (“colon cancer”) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., behind only lung cancer. When we talk of medical malpractice, we need to know about the “standard of care” under a certain set of facts. So, in terms of colorectal cancer prevention, what is…
