Legal Protection for Vulnerable Adults in Seattle

Preventing Abuse and Exploitation Through a Vulnerable Adult Protection Order

Just as an order for protection can protect a person from domestic violence or family abuse, Washington law provides protection for vulnerable adults from physical neglect, abuse or financial exploitation. At Ridgway Law Group, P.S., the protection of elderly or disabled persons is an important focus of our practice. An attorney from our firm can advise you regarding the best ways to protect a loved one who might be subjected to physical or financial harm.

Claims of abuse or neglect from an elderly or disabled loved one need to be taken seriously. Our legal team has the experience and legal understanding to help you recognize and pursue your options. In some cases, seeking a Vulnerable Adult Protection Order may be appropriate.

What Is A Vulnerable Adult Protection Order (VAPO)?

A VAPO is a legal order that provides protection for vulnerable adults who are at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Do You Need to Be Fully Incapacitated or Disabled to Get Vulnerable Adult Protection?

Vulnerable adults eligible for this protection do not need to be fully incapacitated or disabled. The state law that defines valid claims for protection includes anyone under residential or home care as well as people with developmental disabilities or for whom a guardian could be appointed. The main issue is not legal incompetence or total disability. Instead, it is dependence on the services or care of another.

What Can Adult Protection Order Protect Against?

A Vulnerable Adult Protection Order can protect an individual from problems such as:

• Abandonment
• Physical, sexual or emotional abuse
• Exploitation, including financial exploitation
• Neglect
• The threat of any of these, especially when intended to influence the behavior or decisions of the vulnerable person

The police or sheriff's office can enforce a vulnerable adult protection order in much the same way that they enforce protection orders in domestic violence situations. Further, violating a protection order is a criminal offense.

How Can I Obtain A VAPO?

To obtain a Vulnerable Adult Protection Order, you must file a petition with the court, providing evidence of the vulnerable adult's vulnerability and the need for protection. Understanding the process, eligibility criteria, and documentation required for obtaining a VAPO is crucial.

Common Reasons Requests for Vulnerable Adult Protection Orders Are Denied

The court will review petitions and evidence presented to determine whether a VAPO is warranted, so it is possible for a request to be denied. There are several reasons why a request may be denied, including:

• Insufficient evidence: Be sure to provide compelling and substantiated evidence that demonstrates the need for your loved one’s protection.
• Lack of jurisdiction: The court may deny a VAPO request if it determines that it does not have jurisdiction over the matter. This can depend on various factors, such as the location of the vulnerable adult, the alleged abuser, or the incident in question. Ensuring that the request is filed in the appropriate court is crucial.
• Procedural errors: If the petition was not filed properly or there was a failure to meet specific requirements set forth by the court, the request may be denied. Carefully follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the court when submitting the petition.
• Challenged credibility: If the credibility of the petitioner or the evidence presented is challenged by the court or the opposing party, it may lead to a denial of the VAPO request. It is essential to provide reliable and credible information to support the request.

If your request for a VAPO is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or explore alternative legal remedies. Consulting with an experienced Seattle Vulnerable Protection Order lawyer can help you understand your options and navigate the process effectively. At Ridgway Law Group, P.S., we have more than 30 years of experience helping clients navigate complex elderly law cases. Get in touch with us by dialing (206) 855-6420 to make an appointment.

Let Us Help You Defend Your Loved One

Our firm provides comprehensive client service when you need to consider acting on claims of abuse or neglect.

We can help you seek a Vulnerable Adult Protection Order and take the necessary steps to enforce it when issued, and we can also advise you concerning the use of powers of attorney to give your loved one an additional layer of protection, especially in cases where there is a threat of financial exploitation. Our probate litigation experience is valuable in actions to recover assets lost through exploitation.