An internal email surfaced this spring that should alarm every Virginia family with a loved one in a nursing home. In December 2025, a supervisor at the Virginia Department of Health’s Office of Licensure and Certification (OLC) admitted in writing that the state was “not enforcing” a law requiring nursing homes to carry minimum liability…
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…
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…
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?…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Professional care can be very beneficial for ensuring a family member gets the assistance they need. However, nursing homes and other adult care facilities can pose serious problems for loved ones, including elder abuse and neglect. That is why it is essential that everyone knows how to identify the signs of elder abuse and neglect…
