Being accused of elder abuse in Redwood City, California, is serious. Our criminal defense attorneys at Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, can help you put you in the best position to beat your charges. Call us at (650) 299-0500 for a consultation.
A conviction can lead to jail time, steep fines, and a lasting mark on your record. On top of that, the stigma of such an accusation can affect your personal life and career as well.
We know what’s at stake and how to help you respond to your charges appropriately. With 30 years of combined experience and thousands of cases handled, we have the knowledge and courtroom skills to fight these charges aggressively.
Contact our law offices today to set up a consultation with a Redwood City elder abuse attorney.
How Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help if You’ve Been Charged With Elder Abuse in Redwood City, CA
When you’re facing elder abuse allegations, law enforcement and prosecutors may already assume the worst. Our job is to make sure your side of the story is heard and that your rights (due process and otherwise) are fully protected, aiming to have your charges dismissed completely if we can.
Here’s how our team can help if you’re accused of elder abuse in Redwood City:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations
- Gather evidence, including witness statements and medical records
- File motions to exclude unreliable or unlawfully obtained evidence
- Challenge the credibility of the prosecution’s witnesses
- Explore all options for reduced charges or dismissal
- Provide strong representation in the courtroom if your case goes to trial
We have earned a reputation as award-winning trial lawyers who won’t back down when your freedom is on the line. Prosecutors know that when Ahmed & Sukaram is on a case, they’re facing a defense team ready to fight every step of the way. Contact our Redwood City criminal defense lawyers today for a free case review.
What Is Elder Abuse Under California Law?
California takes allegations of elder abuse seriously. Under Penal Code § 368, “elder” means anyone 65 years of age or older. Abuse can take many forms, including physical harm, neglect, financial exploitation, and emotional abuse.
The law makes it a crime to:
- Physically harm or endanger an elder
- Neglect an elder’s basic needs when responsible for their care
- Wrongfully take or misuse an elder’s money or property
- Cause psychological suffering through threats or intimidation
Depending on the facts, elder abuse may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. That decision often depends on the severity of harm, the type of abuse alleged, and whether the accused has a prior record.
What Are the Penalties for Elder Abuse in California?
The potential consequences of an elder abuse conviction vary widely.
A misdemeanor conviction can mean:
- Up to one year in county jail
- Fines of up to $6,000
- Probation and mandatory counseling
A felony conviction carries much harsher penalties, including:
- Two to four years in state prison (longer if great bodily injury is alleged)
- Fines up to $10,000
- Restitution to the alleged victim
- Potential loss of professional licenses
Beyond the criminal penalties, a conviction can also lead to collateral consequences, including difficulty finding housing or employment. That’s why it’s critical to have a skilled elder abuse defense attorney by your side from the start.
Potential Defenses to Elder Abuse Charges in Redwood City
Every case is unique, but several defenses may be available depending on the circumstances.
Some examples your defense lawyer can raise on your behalf include, but are not limited to, the following:
- False accusations: Family disputes or misunderstandings can sometimes lead to false claims.
- Lack of intent: Prosecutors must often prove that the accused acted willfully or knowingly.
- Insufficient evidence: If the evidence against you is weak or unreliable, the charges may not hold up in court.
- Accident: Injuries may occur without any criminal conduct involved.
- Consent: In financial cases, an elder may have willingly authorized transactions now being questioned.
At Ahmed & Sukaram, we know how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and use them to your advantage. Our legal team will craft a defense strategy designed to secure the best possible outcome we can for you.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Redwood City Elder Abuse Defense Attorney
If you’ve been accused of elder abuse in Redwood City, California, don’t wait to get legal help. Early intervention from an experienced Redwood City elder abuse lawyer can make all the difference in how your case unfolds.
Call Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, today to arrange a free consultation. We’ll review the charges against you and explain what we can do to help you fight back against the prosecution effectively.