Sonoma County's reputation as a premier retirement destination means thousands of seniors depend on local care facilities. Our former defense attorneys know how nursing homes hide abuse and neglect — and we use that knowledge to fight for your family.
Sonoma County is home to nearly 490,000 residents, with more than 95,000 seniors aged 65 and older — one of the highest proportions of seniors in California. As a premier Wine Country retirement destination, the county attracts retirees from across the state and nation, driving demand for skilled nursing and assisted living care.
With over 20 skilled nursing facilities serving the region, Sonoma County faces unique challenges in elder care. Rural communities spread across the county often have limited care options, forcing families to accept whatever facility is available. The devastating wildfires that have struck Sonoma County in recent years have displaced seniors from their facilities, creating chaos and further exposing vulnerable residents to neglect and abuse.
At California Nursing Home Law, attorneys Michael Young and Thomas Wallin have spent decades fighting for elder abuse victims across Northern California, including Sonoma County. As former nursing home defense attorneys, they know exactly how facilities try to cover up abuse — and they use that insider knowledge to tear those defenses apart.
Our attorneys represent Sonoma County families in all types of nursing home abuse and neglect cases:
If you suspect a loved one is being abused or neglected in a Sonoma County nursing home or care facility, it is critical to act quickly. Contact the following agencies to file a report:
These organizations provide resources, support, and advocacy for seniors and their families in Sonoma County:
California provides some of the strongest legal protections for nursing home residents in the country. Key laws that protect Sonoma County seniors include:
Welfare & Institutions Code 15600-15675 — This landmark California statute allows elder abuse victims to recover enhanced damages, including attorney's fees and costs. It covers physical abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, abandonment, isolation, and other forms of mistreatment.
California Penal Code Section 368 — Makes it a felony to inflict unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering on an elder or dependent adult. Violations can result in imprisonment and significant fines.
Health & Safety Code 1599 — Guarantees nursing home residents fundamental rights including dignity, privacy, freedom from abuse, adequate medical care, and the right to voice grievances without retaliation.
Our nursing home abuse attorneys represent families in every city and community across Sonoma County, including: