A Federal Way family is speaking out after their loved one suffered severe injuries during a stay at a local nursing facility, highlighting a growing problem in Washington state. Annie Jenkins, who previously had mild dementia and could care for herself, became entirely dependent on others following her stay at Hallmark Manor. Her story has drawn attention from Seattle, WA nursing home abuse lawyer professionals and advocates concerned about the high rate of violations in the state.
Annie was admitted to Hallmark Manor for post-surgical care after an ankle injury in late 2023. The facility advertised itself as a 24-hour medical center specializing in physical therapy, wound care, and dementia care. However, legal documents reveal that her ankle bandages became discolored and foul-smelling. When family members requested assistance, Annie was not immediately sent to the hospital. Only after threats to call 911 was she transported for care—but by then, gangrene had developed, leading to the amputation of her toes. The family described the impact on Annie as life-altering.
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services investigated the complaint and confirmed the facility “failed to provide necessary treatment” and that the injury was avoidable. Hallmark Manor received 23 citations in the past year, more than twice the national average, for failing to provide appropriate care for dementia patients and failing to treat residents with dignity. Yet the state issued only a $1,000 fine and required the facility to submit a corrective plan, a response the family called inadequate.
Holding Nursing Homes Accountable
The issues at Hallmark Manor are part of a larger statewide problem. Washington nursing homes receive nearly twice as many federal health and safety citations as facilities nationwide, though most are considered low-level violations. Advocates argue that these “slap on the wrist” penalties fail to protect vulnerable residents, leaving families seeking accountability through legal channels.
For families like Annie’s, turning to our Seattle nursing home abuse attorneys can help make sure that their loved ones’ rights are protected. Our elder abuse lawyers assist in investigating incidents of neglect, abuse, and medical mismanagement in care homes. Facilities may face civil liability for preventable injuries, allowing families to seek compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
Similarly, our senior care lawyers work with families dealing with issues involved in assisted living and long-term care facilities. Mistreatment can occur in any setting, and our assisted living abuse lawyers specialize in identifying negligent practices that jeopardize resident health and safety. Whether it involves improper wound care, failure to administer medication, or unsafe living conditions, we provide guidance on pursuing claims and holding facilities accountable.
Long-term planning is also critical. Our long-term care lawyers help families understand their legal options for making sure that residents receive appropriate care while addressing any financial or legal impacts of abuse or neglect. Having a legal advocate can prevent tragedies like Annie’s from being repeated and provide families with support when state oversight is insufficient.
At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we are committed to protecting residents in Washington’s nursing homes and care facilities. We offer a 24/7 live call answering service to address all of your questions, regardless of the time of day. And with free case evaluations, you can get a sense of our approach and learn how we can help without spending a dime. If you suspect abuse is occurring, our Seattle nursing home abuse lawyers can help you explore legal options and pursue justice. Contact Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC today to make sure your family’s rights and your loved one’s safety are fully protected.
