Because it's a growing and profitable field of legal endeavor, nursing home abuse has attracted its share of fly-by-night attorneys who are just in it for the money. That means you'll have to be extra vigilant when conducting your attorney search; never skimp on your research.

If you're uncertain whether a particular nursing home abuse lawyer is licensed to practice in your jurisdiction, it's easy to find out the truth. Just go to ishereallyalawyer.com and click on the name of your state for a free search of the state bar association membership.

Be especially concerned if an elderly resident is injured in a nursing home and you're immediately offered a settlement. It's quite likely the facility is trying to cover up nursing home abuse. Start an investigation of the incident immediately, and look into hiring a lawyer to help.