Government Liability: Vulnerable Adults and Children

Our government has a critical responsibility to protect vulnerable individuals, and people place their trust in government agencies for their safety. However, there are instances when the government fails to meet its obligations to our most vulnerable citizens, leaving them exposed to harm and neglect. At our law firm, we are dedicated to being a strong advocate for those who have been harmed by government negligence. 

We believe that everyone deserves justice, even when facing the government. Our mission is twofold: to obtain justice for individuals and families who have suffered due to government neglect and to promote positive change that benefits other vulnerable citizens. Our experienced team has a track record of holding government agencies accountable and achieving significant wins for our clients. If you or a loved one has experienced harm or neglect from the government, we are here to provide you with the strong legal representation you need to seek the compensation and support you deserve. Together, we can work towards a safer and more responsible government that prioritizes the wellbeing of its most vulnerable citizens. 

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Understanding Government Liability Claims 

When Government Fails to Serve 

Government agencies, and those contractors they hire to work with vulnerable adults, are expected to meet high standards each and every day. Far too often, these organizations and government agencies fail to meet these legal standards, causing the children and vulnerable adults under their care to suffer. Local, state, and federal governments, and those they contract with, have made egregious errors that cause injury, harm, and even their lives. 

When bad things happen to those who cannot protect themselves, many people do not know their options and many think they are powerless against big government. They believe that government agencies are immune to the consequences of their actions and cannot be held financially liable for serious injuries and death. We work hard every day to prove that everyone—even government—has to fulfill its obligations. When government does not do what it is required to do, we are here to make help hold the government accountable for the injuries, harm and damages caused.

Vulnerable Adults and Children Pay the Price 

In many situations, vulnerable adults and children are led to believe they have no way to hold government accountable when it fails to fulfill its duties in terms of vulnerable adult abuse. Those who most deserve the government’s protection are the ones who are least able to advocate for themselves or get help when their rights are abused. 

Vulnerable adults are often under the care of the Department of Social and Health Services, as well as the numerous private agencies it contracts with. Long-term care is notoriously underfunded, and contracting agencies and facilities frequently provide less oversight and intervention than the law requires. As a result, family members or watchdog agencies often don’t know that there is vulnerable adult abuse occurring until the victim is already falling seriously ill or dying. 

The same is true for some children who enter the government foster care system. They are at greater risk for abuse and neglect and need careful monitoring. However, due to lack of training and understaffing, there is often far less supervision than these children deserve. Abuse and neglect of children by foster families or caretakers is inexcusable. 

Our law firm works hard to be a strong voice for those who do not have one. We believe that everyone deserves justice when the government fails them. 

Case Results

$4,255,555

Neglect, drowning, and cognitive impairment of a vulnerable adult under DSHS care and supervision.

$2,816,040

Catastrophic career ending injury claim in Grays Harbor County.

$2,501,808

Career ending injury and infection claim in King County.

Our Approach to Government Liability Claims 

Holding the Government Accountable 

The work we do to hold the government responsible for its errors is beneficial in two ways. First, we get justice for individuals and families who are hurt while under government care by getting them the damages they are rightfully owed when the government does not fulfill its obligations. Many people believe that the government is too big to be challenged and that there is no benefit in going up against government lawyers. We stand up for those individuals and give them a voice. We take-on the government on behalf of vulnerable adults and children. 

Second, a successful lawsuit against the government is often enough to cause positive change that benefits our most vulnerable citizens. Complaints from residents can be ignored or waved off—but a lawsuit brings attention and accountability to government. Having to pay for hurting or causing death encourages government officials to put safeguards in place to prevent similar incidents from happening again. One lawsuit can lead to change that protects other individuals from harm. 

How Ron Meyers & Associates Can Help with Government Liability Claims Cases 

Successful Cases Against Government Agencies 

The team at Ron Meyers & Associates: Olympia Injury Lawyers is responsible for many major wins against the government. 

If you or someone you love has been harmed by the government’s abuse, neglect or abandonment you are not powerless. The government isn’t beyond the law—the team at Ron Meyers & Associates: Olympia Injury Lawyers is ready to take government agencies to court and hold them responsible for any type of vulnerable adult abuse. We’re ready to discuss your case and help you take the next step. Contact us at 360-459-5600 to schedule your free consultation. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Government Liability Claims Cases 

Government liability refers to the legal responsibility of government agencies and contractors hired by the government to protect and care for vulnerable adults and children. When these agencies fail to meet their legal obligations, they can be held accountable for the harm and injuries caused to those under their care. 

Examples of vulnerable adult abuse and neglect cases involving government agencies can include inadequate care in long-term care facilities, lack of oversight and intervention in contracted agencies, and failure to protect vulnerable adults from harm. 

Yes, government agencies and contractors can be held financially liable for injuries and harm caused to vulnerable adults and children if they fail to fulfill their legal duties and obligations. 

Yes, you have the right to take legal action against the government if your loved one has suffered harm or injuries due to government negligence or failures. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you understand your options and pursue justice. 

No, the government is not immune from facing legal consequences for its actions. While suing the government may involve specific legal procedures, it is possible to hold government agencies accountable for their errors and seek compensation for damages. 

A successful lawsuit against the government can benefit vulnerable adults and children in two ways. Firstly, it provides justice and compensation to individuals and families who have been harmed. Secondly, it can lead to positive change and improvements in government systems to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. 

If you suspect vulnerable adult abuse or neglect by a government agency, it is essential to take immediate action. Document any evidence, report your concerns to relevant authorities, and consult with an attorney experienced in government liability cases to discuss your legal options. 

Ron Meyers & Associates: Olympia Injury Lawyers has extensive experience in handling government liability cases. We can provide legal representation to hold government agencies accountable for their actions and seek compensation for injuries and damages caused to vulnerable adults and children. 

Yes, there is a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a lawsuit against the government for vulnerable adult abuse or neglect. It is crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to understand the specific time limits that apply in your case. 

Various government agencies can be held liable for vulnerable adult and child abuse, including local, state, and federal entities responsible for providing care and protection to vulnerable individuals. 

Yes, you may be able to sue the government for emotional distress caused by the abuse or neglect of your loved one. Emotional distress damages can be sought in a lawsuit against the government for its negligence and failure to protect vulnerable adults and children. 

Yes, there are specific laws that protect the rights of vulnerable adults and children under government care. These laws vary at the state and federal levels and are designed to ensure the proper care and protection of vulnerable individuals. 

In a lawsuit against the government for vulnerable adult abuse or neglect, various damages can be claimed, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, and other related costs. 

Yes, you can file a lawsuit against both the government agency and the individual responsible for the abuse or neglect. Holding both parties accountable may increase the chances of obtaining a favorable outcome in your case. 

Pursuing a government liability case involves various steps, including gathering evidence, identifying the responsible parties, filing the necessary legal documents, and presenting your case in court. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process. 

Yes, you may still be able to pursue a lawsuit against the government even if your loved one has passed away due to vulnerable adult abuse or neglect. Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. 

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