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WHAT ARE PUNITIVE DAMAGES?


There are typically two types of damages sought in a nursing home neglect and abuse case:

  • Economic. Also known as “special damages,” monetary damages cover medical expenses and similar losses which come with a set amount
  • Non-Economic. Also known as “general damages,” non-economic damages cover pain, suffering, and similar harm suffered by the victim of abuse

Punitive damages are rarely sought in personal injury cases. These damages seek to punish particularly egregious behavior or intentionally violent mistreatment. When awarded, punitive damages are capped at $250,000 in Georgia.

WE FIGHT FOR VICTIMS

Recently, our nursing home abuse lawyers secured a $15.3 million verdict against the Life Care Center of Lawrenceville and its parent company, Life Care Centers of America. This verdict, obtained through a jury trial, included $900,000 in punitive damages against the Life Care Center of Lawrenceville and an additional $8.27 million against its parent company. These damages were, predictably, reduced to fall within the State’s cap on punitive damages.

Our attorneys challenged the constitutionality of this cap in front of the Georgia Supreme Court. The outcome of this challenge could be one of the reasons for the change in how punitive damages are awarded to future victims of nursing home abuse and neglect. Our firm continues to fight for maximum compensation, including punitive damages when appropriate, and to fight against caps that unfairly reduce awards secured through a trial.

DO YOU NEED HELP?

Nursing home abuse and neglect are shockingly common and tragically overlooked. Signs of abuse, such as unexplained injury, may remain unnoticed by visiting family or be covered up by staff. Neglect, such as bedsores, malnutrition, and dehydration, can be even harder to notice, but when they come to light, taking immediate action is necessary to preserve the dignity and safety of the victim.

If you suspect a loved one is suffering mistreatment in their nursing home, we are here to investigate your claim and help your family get justice. Our lawyers are tireless in their pursuit of justice and have no fear of powerful corporations or their attorneys. We are prepared to take your claim as far as needed to help ensure the best outcomes for you and your loved one.

Please call us at 404-760-7400 to schedule a free case review right away. We maintain two offices in Atlanta to serve families living throughout the area.