Where to report elder abuse in California

You do not need proof to report suspected abuse or neglect of an older or dependent adult in California. Reporting starts an official look at what is happening. Talking to a lawyer is a separate step and does not replace a report.

If someone is in danger now

Call 911 or your local police or sheriff.

Adult Protective Services (APS)

Each California county runs Adult Protective Services, which takes reports about older adults and dependent adults, mainly those living in their own homes or in the community. Ask APS whether your situation is one they handle. Find your county's APS contact through the California Department of Social Services.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman

For residents of nursing homes and assisted living, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for residents and takes complaints about their care. It is run through the California Department of Aging, which lists local ombudsman offices and the program's crisis line.

Facility licensing

• Skilled nursing facilities are licensed by the California Department of Public Health, which takes complaints about them.
• Assisted living (residential care facilities for the elderly) is licensed by the California Department of Social Services' Community Care Licensing Division (cdss.ca.gov).

Financial abuse

Report suspected financial abuse to APS or the police as well. Tell the person's bank too: banks can often flag or pause unusual activity. The California Attorney General publishes information on elder abuse, including in care facilities.

Who has to report

Many people who work with older adults, including care facility staff, are mandated reporters under California law. Anyone else can report too.

Talking to a lawyer

California's Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act allows some civil claims for abuse and neglect, and deadlines apply. A lawyer can tell you whether it may apply. The firms in this directory are listed so you can contact them yourself; we do not refer, recommend or pass on anyone's details.

125 firms in this directory list nursing home abuse and neglect and 28 firms list financial elder abuse (as of November 5, 2026). Check each lawyer on the State Bar site before you hire.

This is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Deadlines apply to these claims; ask a lawyer about yours. Find Malpractice Lawyers is a directory, not a law firm or lawyer referral service.