Nursing home abuse law focuses on protecting elderly or vulnerable adults from neglect, physical, emotional, or financial abuse within care facilities. This area of law encompasses both civil and criminal elements, where victims or their representatives can seek damages for harm suffered or pursue criminal charges against perpetrators. Federal regulations like the Nursing Home Reform Act set standards for care, but state laws also play a significant role, defining what constitutes abuse, how it should be reported, and the legal recourse available. Reporting abuse is often mandated by state law, and states may have specific agencies or ombudsmen dedicated to investigating nursing home complaints. Legal actions can include lawsuits for negligence, wrongful death, or intentional torts, and there's typically a statute of limitations within which these claims must be filed. Consulting with an attorney specializing in elder law can provide guidance through the complex legal landscape to ensure residents' rights are upheld and abuses are addressed.