Top Bethlehem Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Lawyers

Bethlehem Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers Fighting for Seniors in the Lehigh Valley.

Our Results Speak For Themselves

Over Half a Billion Dollars

Over Half a Billion Dollars

in Settlements Recovered for Our Clients

$95 Million

$95 Million

Highest Verdict Obtained

25+ Years

25+ Years

of Experience in Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Cases

What Our Clients Say About Us

“This was my first and only time that I’ve ever needed a law firm. The firm that originally started handling our case seemed to not be very interested, did not keep us in the loop & gave us the impression that there was a slim chance of any success. When the case was transferred to Cohen, Feely, Altemose & Rambo, Kelly Rambo-Williams worked our case and restored our faith in attorneys… Our case was successfully settled & justice was served. It was a pleasure working with them! I would use their firm again in a heartbeat & recommend them to anyone in need.”
C- C. C.

“Melany and Attorney Rambo-Williams were wonderful to deal with / work along side. My life felt like it was on hold for a long time but I always was kept in the loop of what was occurring and in the end was able to smile again for the first time in awhile with the outcome. I would absolutely recommend them again to anyone who needs a lawyer for a personal injury suit. Thank you both again for all you did on my behalf, it means more than you’ll ever know to my family and I”
B- B. B.

“From the outset, Attorney Schick was attentive and responsive to my needs, taking the time to fully understand the details of my cases and provide clear guidance on the best course of action… From the paralegals to the legal assistants, everyone I worked with was knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to go above and beyond to help. It is no surprise that with their guidance, I was able to achieve three successful cases. I would highly recommend Attorney TJ Schick and Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo to anyone in need of legal representation.”
J- J. B.

“I retained Mark Altemose because he is a passionate attorney with unparallel skills and exceptional results. Insurance company tried to settle for $75,000 but Mark negotiated $500,000. He is also very responsive and made sure that we understood everything pertaining to our case. When choosing a personal injury lawyer- results matter - not reviews. Therefore, if you want results, I highly recommend working with Mark Altemose.”
L- L. G.

“I cannot say enough good things about Mark Altemose and Mallory Glase! They both were extremely easy to communicate with, caring, understanding of my mothers situation and got better results than what was expected. I pray that I never need an attorney again, but if I do I would definitely go to Mark Altemose and Mallory without hesitation.”
K- K. S.

“Kelly Rambo and her team took charge and lifted a huge weight off my shoulders while keeping our family's values the whole time. Literally could not have done this without them.”
M- M. C.

A Message from Our Partners

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Raising Awareness of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

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Meet Kelly Rambo-Williams, Partner

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Meet Mark K. Altemose, CEO & Managing Partner

Meet Our Team

Awards & Recognition

Best Law Firms 2023 Million Dollar Advocates Forum Bar Register Preeminent Lawyers The National Trial Lawyers Super Lawyers & Best Lawyers
How We Serve Seniors in the Lehigh Valley

How We Serve Seniors in the Lehigh Valley

Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo is deeply committed to the well-being and dignity of Bethlehem's senior citizens. We believe that older adults deserve respect and a high quality of life, and it is our moral imperative to protect them from abuse and neglect. Unfortunately, older adults are susceptible to various forms of mistreatment, often falling victim to opportunistic individuals eager to take advantage of their vulnerabilities. Our mission extends beyond the courtroom — it is a calling to defend and uphold the rights of seniors in our community.

Learn More

How Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo Can Help With Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Cases

If your loved one suffered neglect or abuse in a nursing home or other facility, our experienced nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys at Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo can guide you through the legal process. We provide knowledgeable guidance, handle communications with relevant parties, pursue fair compensation, and represent you and your loved one in court. Here is how we can assist you:

Knowledgeable Legal Guidance

Dealing with a nursing home abuse case can be overwhelming, but with our experienced attorneys by your side, you will have experienced legal guidance at every step. We will ensure you fully understand your rights and options, empowering you to make informed decisions for your loved one.

Advocacy with Relevant Parties

Handling communications with insurance companies and other involved parties can be challenging. Let us take care of the negotiations on your behalf, safeguarding your interests and protecting your loved one's rights.

Pursuing Fair Compensation

Determining fair compensation for the suffering caused by nursing home abuse and neglect is crucial. Our legal team will diligently assess the extent of harm and strive to secure a fair settlement by negotiating with the responsible parties.

Strong Representation in Court

If the nursing home will not agree to a fair settlement, our seasoned trial attorneys are ready to represent you and your loved one in court. We will passionately advocate for you and your loved one, seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.

Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo's Vision

Our mission is to protect the rights and well-being of elderly adults who have suffered from nursing home abuse or neglect. With decades of experience in handling complex cases involving catastrophic injury and death, our compassionate team is committed to serving the senior community and their families in the Lehigh Valley.

At Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo, we are committed to fighting nursing home neglect in Bethlehem and ensuring the safety and well-being of our senior community. Let us be your strong advocates and work together to prevent and address nursing home abuse and neglect in Bethlehem.

25+ Years of Experience in Protecting the Elderly

Request your no-obligation free consultation

Latest News and Blogs

Raising Awareness About Nursing Home Neglect & Abuse

Sep 26, 2023

Raising Awareness About Nursing Home Neglect & Abuse
October is Long-Term Care Planning Month. The month creates awareness among senior citizens and their caretakers to understand and…
Abuse and Neglect in Long-Term Care Facilities: What You Need to Know

Sep 12, 2023

Abuse and Neglect in Long-Term Care Facilities: What You Need to Know
More than 8 million people in the U.S. receive support from long-term care services: nursing homes, home health agencies,…
Get to Know Kelly Rambo-Williams

May 02, 2020

Get to Know Kelly Rambo-Williams
Discover who and what inspires Kelly to practice law and fight for the injured every day.

Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Lawyers in Bethlehem

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Common Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect?

Signs of diminished well-being or low quality of life may be a sign of nursing home abuse or neglect. They could include physical signs, like bedsores, cuts, bruises, weight loss, unattended medical needs, frequent illness, or infection. Inadequate hygiene may also be a warning sign of nursing home abuse and neglect.

The victim might appear to be unbathed, clothes unwashed, with bad oral hygiene or hair care. Even if no physical signs indicate the abuse, mental signs may be more prominent. The victim may be withdrawn or prone to mood swings. In addition, sudden changes in the victim’s financial situation may indicate exploitation by nursing home caregivers.

Why Should I Consult With a Nursing Home Abuse Attorney?

Nursing home abuse and neglect is unfortunately common. Legal protections exist to shield senior citizens from these abuses, but as with any legal ecosystem, these cases can be complicated. Court proceedings may also be intimidating for families seeking justice for their elderly loved ones. The defendant gets to counter your case, and with the right counsel, even clear-cut cases of nursing home abuse can go the way of the defendant.

An attorney experienced in nursing home abuse and neglect will be your trusted expert counselor and guide through the sometimes twisty process of winning just recompense for the harm done by nursing home abuse. Your attorney champions your cause, doing the heavy legal lifting so you don’t have to.

How Can Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo Help With Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Cases?

At Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo, we can help you prepare and file your lawsuit and build the strongest case possible for your claim of nursing home abuse or neglect. We can help you gather and secure evidence to be entered into the court record, present your case, and anticipate counterarguments from the defendant(s) so we can effectively counter them. If a deposition or testimony is needed, we can help you prepare for that sometimes intimidating process.

Why Should I Choose Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo for My Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Case?

At Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo, our law firm has extensive experience representing aggrieved parties and getting them the justice they deserve. We have a special passion for nursing home abuse and neglect cases, considering it an egregious offense against some of the least deserving victims imaginable.

As such, we aggressively represent our elder neighbors in Bethlehem who have fallen victim to nursing home abuse and neglect, tenaciously seeking maximum damages. This is how we have built the impressive track record of:

  • Over Half a Billion Dollars in Settlements Recovered for Our Clients
  • $95 Million: Highest Verdict Obtained
  • 25+ Years of Experience in Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect Cases
  • How Can I Get Started With Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo for My Nursing Home Abuse Case?

    It is easy to get a nursing home abuse case started with Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo. Simply give us a call or fill out our contact form to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. A representative will listen to you and walk you through the first steps of holding a neglectful nursing home accountable.

    How Serious of a Problem Is Elder Abuse in Nursing Homes?

    It is hard to know exactly how prevalent elder abuse and neglect in nursing homes is, as the practice is reputed to be severely under-reported — something the team at Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo aims to change.

    The stats available to us are distressing enough:

  • In 2017 the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that one in six people over the age of 60 had been abused in a community setting within the last 12 months.
  • In the U.S., it is believed that one in 10 elders experience abuse, but only one in 14 cases are reported.
  • When asked, more than 50% of all surveyed employees at nursing homes admitted to some form of mistreatment of their charges within the past year, including neglect, physical abuse, or mental abuse.
  • What Are the Causes of Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect?

    There is no universal cause of nursing home abuse or neglect. It can manifest due to a myriad of factors, ranging from understaffing and inadequate training to subpar hiring practices and poor facility management.

    Another contributing factor is the vulnerability of many nursing home residents, who may have limited mobility and medical dependencies. Unfortunately, some individuals with malicious intent target these vulnerable populations, viewing them as easier victims for exploitation.

    What Are the Different Types of Elder Abuse and Neglect?

    A variety of harmful actions qualify as elder abuse and neglect under the law. These may include:

  • Physical abuse
  • Emotional or psychological abuse
  • Isolation
  • Withholding of medication or treatment
  • Sexual abuse
  • Financial exploitation
  • Abandonment
  • Neglect of basic needs (food, hygiene, etc.)
  • What Signs of Elder Abuse/Neglect Should You Look For?

    Look for signs of physical abuse, such as cuts and bruises, as well as signs of neglect — pressure sores, infections, poor hygiene, weight loss, etc. Also look for changes in temperament, including moodiness or withdrawn behavior. Watch the behavior of caregivers for signs of callousness.

    What Kinds of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Cases Do We Handle?

    Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo handles any kind of nursing home abuse or neglect case allowed under the law. If the victim has suffered physical, mental, or emotional abuse, we will work to secure damages for pain and suffering, as well as reimbursement for any medical expenses. If the victim has been financially exploited, we can also secure restitution of lost funds.

    How Can You Prevent Your Loved One From Becoming a Victim of Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect?

    Preventing a loved one from becoming the victim of nursing home abuse or neglect requires that you be vigilant and assertive on their behalf. Carefully vet nursing homes for their reputation, hiring practices, policies, monitoring and accountability systems, and history of resident treatment.

    Once your loved one has moved in, remember to visit frequently. If possible, drop in unannounced and be wary of any notices that you can’t visit your loved one for hard-to-understand reasons. When you do see your loved one, look for telltale signs of abuse, including but not limited to obvious signs of physical abuse, weight loss or malnourishment, inadequate hygiene and grooming, mood swings, or withdrawn behavior.

    What Should You Do if You Suspect Abuse or See Your Loved One Being Abused?

    First, collect all documentation to support your suspicions. Don’t give the nursing home the chance to circle the wagons before you have secured possible evidence.

    As soon as possible, report your suspicions to the provider. They may genuinely want to hear about it and correct it, especially if the incident was the result of a rogue caregiver instead of institutional deficiency.

    If necessary, however, be prepared to immediately contact law enforcement and secure legal counsel from attorneys experienced in elder abuse and neglect case law.

    How Does the Law Protect Nursing Home Residents From Abuse?

    The law sets standards for the care and treatment that nursing homes must render to their residents. Failing to uphold those standards makes the nursing home liable for civil damages paid to the victim, as well as potential criminal penalties.

    What Are the Standards of Care Required by Law of Nursing Homes?

    The Federal Nursing Home Reform Act, which is part of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) of 1987, includes provisions that specify a bill of rights for nursing home residents. These rights are outlined in Section 483.10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (42 CFR § 483.10).

    Under this federal law, nursing homes that participate in the Medicare and Medicaid programs are required to protect and promote the rights of each resident. The Resident's Bill of Rights established by the Federal Nursing Home Reform Act includes a range of rights and protections for residents living in long-term care facilities. Some of the key rights outlined in the Act include:

  • The right to be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
  • The right to privacy and confidentiality of personal and medical information.
  • The right to participate in one's own care and treatment decisions.
  • The right to be treated with dignity and respect.
  • The right to voice grievances without fear of retaliation.
  • The right to have a choice in activities, schedules, and healthcare providers.
  • The right to be free from unnecessary restraints.
  • The right to access one's own medical records.
  • The right to participate in family groups.
  • The right to be fully informed about one's health status, treatment, and medications.
  • Are There Any Laws to Protect Senior Citizens in Pennsylvania?

    In Pennsylvania, the Department of Aging is responsible for the oversight and implementation of the Older Adults Protective Services Act (OAPSA) for individuals over the age of 60. OAPSA is aimed at preventing abuse, neglect, exploitation, and abandonment of older adults in Pennsylvania, by establishing reporting requirements and legal protections.

    OAPSA establishes a framework for providing protective services to older adults who are at risk of abuse or neglect, which may include medical assessments, counseling, and legal assistance. The Act also provides legal protections and immunity from civil and criminal liability to individuals who make good faith reports of suspected abuse or neglect. This encourages reporting without fear of retaliation.

    Why Don’t the Elderly Report Abuse, and What Can You Do About It?

    Many senior citizens fail to or decline to report abuse because they fear retaliation or embarrassment. Some may be impaired in their ability to communicate. Abusive nursing homes can wield significant control over their residents’ movement, communication, comfort, and access to the outside world.

    When Is It Appropriate to Sue a Nursing Home for Abuse and Neglect?

    It is appropriate to consider legal action against a nursing home when you have reason to believe that the facility has failed in its duty to provide a safe, clean, and respectful living environment for residents. If your loved one has suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm due to negligence or abuse within the nursing home, pursuing a lawsuit can be a way to seek justice and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

    To determine the appropriateness of a lawsuit, you should consult with an experienced attorney who is experienced in handling nursing home abuse and neglect cases, like the ones at Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo. We can help assess the details of your situation and provide guidance on the best course of action to protect your loved one's rights and well-being.

    Who Can Bring a Lawsuit for Elder Abuse or Neglect?

    In cases of elder abuse or neglect, most lawsuits are officially initiated by the victim themselves or their family members. However, if the victim is not in a position to take legal action, a family member or trusted individual may serve as an appointed legal guardian or conservator to pursue the lawsuit on their behalf. If the victim is deceased, their Estate will generally be the plaintiff. The specifics of who can bring a lawsuit may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the case.

    It is important to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in elder abuse and neglect cases to understand the legal requirements and options available for bringing a lawsuit in your particular situation. They can provide valuable guidance on the appropriate steps to take to seek justice and protect the rights of the affected individual.

    How Do I Report Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect?

    If you suspect abuse or neglect in a nursing home setting, it is crucial to act expeditiously and methodically to protect the well-being and legal rights of the affected individual. As a law firm specializing in elder law, we advise you to follow these steps:

  • Compile Detailed Documentation: Carefully collect all relevant evidence that supports your suspicions of abuse or neglect. This can include medical records, photographs of injuries or unsanitary conditions, as well as any pertinent witness statements.
  • Formal Reporting to the Nursing Home's Management: Submit a formal, written report outlining your concerns to the nursing home's administrative team. Ensure that you retain copies of all communication, and request a formal acknowledgment of your submitted report for your records.
  • Contact Relevant Government Agencies: If the situation is not adequately addressed by the nursing home's management, or if immediate intervention is necessary, reach out to the Department of Health or Adult Protective Services, and/or local law enforcement agencies.
  • Seek Legal Consultation: Should you anticipate the need for legal action, consult with the experienced team at Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo. We will help preserve all available legal remedies and protect the rights of the individual involved.