Abuse and Neglect Lawyers in Maryland and Washington, D.C.

If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, elder abuse, or nursing home neglect, don’t wait any longer to get legal aid. The sooner you get experienced counsel involved, the better your chances of a positive outcome.

Unfortunately, in many of these cases, the truth is far more complicated than what law enforcement or the media portray. That’s why we provide an aggressive and personalized defense strategy for every client we represent.

Let Colbert Law Firm’s top-tier abuse and neglect lawyers in Maryland and Washington, D.C. protect your rights, challenge the allegations, and guide you through this difficult time.

Abuse and Neglect: A Serious and Growing Concern

In Maryland, domestic violence incidents led to over 31,000 reported crimes in 2022, and 38 fatalities in 2023. Similar rates exist in Washington, D.C. too where nearly 4 in 10 women report experiencing intimate partner violence in their lifetimes.

Elder abuse is equally alarming, with national studies estimating that 1 in 10 older Americans suffer from some form of abuse; whether physical, emotional, financial, or neglectful. The worst part is that the majority of cases go unreported.

Since these allegations are made in sensitive, emotionally charged circumstances like family disputes, caregiving breakdowns, and custody battles, they are prone to misunderstandings, exaggerations, and false reporting.

Types of Abuse and Neglect Cases We Handle

With 20 years of experience defending a wide range of abuse and neglect charges, Colbert Law Firm’s abuse and neglect lawyers in Maryland and Washington, D.C. are ready to stand beside you when you need us the most.

1. Domestic Violence Defense

In Maryland, domestic violence is prosecuted under different criminal statutes. Most are second-degree assault, which carries up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine. Prosecutors also charge stalking, harassment, or false imprisonment, and a protective order is issued as the first step in these cases.

However, Washington, D.C. law addresses domestic violence under the umbrella of “intrafamily offenses.” They cover similar behaviors, including threats, physical assault, and harassment. Sentences vary widely, from misdemeanor penalties of 180 days in jail to felony convictions carrying up to 10 years.

These cases are sensitive, and you need compassionate domestic violence attorneys who really feel your pain and are passionate about protecting your rights. Consult Colbert Law Firm today and see the difference for yourself.

2. Elder and Nursing Home Abuse Allegations

Elder abuse allegations usually stem from strained caregiving relationships or institutional settings like nursing homes and assisted living facilities. In Maryland, Criminal Law §3–604 treats abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult as a felony offense. For your information, a vulnerable adult is defined as someone over 68 or with diminished capacity.

Penalties range from up to 10 years in prison and $10,000 in fines to up to 25 years if the alleged abuse caused serious injury or death. Elder financial abuse is also aggressively prosecuted under separate theft or fraud statutes.

Washington, D.C. law classifies elder abuse under D.C. Code § 22-933.01 and criminalizes both active abuse and neglect. Caregivers, family members, and professionals in licensed facilities can be charged with abuse or exploitation. A conviction can carry up to 10 years in prison, along with possible restitution, professional sanctions, or civil fines.

In D.C. and Maryland, if you suspect elder abuse, you're encouraged to report it to Adult Protective Services; while an experienced attorney can help ensure timely and effective intervention.

3. Nursing Home Abuse

Unfortunately, nursing home abuse occurs daily all over the world while most part of the abuse goes unnoticed. Stats show that in the U.S. alone, one in every three nursing homes has a verified history of neglect or abuse due to poor management, lack of staff, or insufficient training.

It comes in many forms, from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse to neglect and financial exploitation. If your nearest and dearest one(s) in a nursing home has any sign of behavior changes, unusual injuries, or is living in an unhygienic environment, it’s time to take immediate action.

Colbert Law Firm’s expert nursing home abuse attorneys can help you collect evidence and present your case to court to protect your family rights. 

How We Build a Strong Defense

Although every case is unique, our approach is consistent: investigate thoroughly, challenge the prosecution’s narrative, and fight to protect your rights at every stage.

Many abuse allegations are caused by confusion, misinterpretation, or ulterior motives; especially in high-conflict domestic or family settings. In other cases, our clients are caregivers or healthcare workers facing charges after unavoidable medical complications or institutional shortcomings.

Our elder abuse and nursing home neglect lawyers thoroughly examine all aspects of the case, including the credibility of the witnesses, the consistency of allegations, and any violations of your constitutional rights during investigation or arrest. We are known for uncovering violations of due process, flawed police procedures, and insufficient evidence that can result in dismissed charges or significantly reduced penalties.

Why Hire Our Abuse and Neglect Lawyers in Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Our criminal defense and elder abuse attorneys are recognized throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. for their trial skill, strategic thinking, and deep understanding of local laws.

We’ve successfully defended clients against some of the most challenging and sensitive allegations, always with discretion and respect for the personal toll these cases can take.

We offer:

• Decades of combined experience defending abuse and neglect cases in Maryland and D.C.


• A proven track record of dismissals, acquittals, and favorable resolutions


• 24/7 accessibility for urgent legal matters


• Personalized attention, discretion, and strategic guidance every step of the way