How Do I Prove Staff Negligence in a Maryland Group Home?

 Posted on October 05, 2025 in Personal Injury

When you place your loved one in a group home, you expect the staff to treat them well. When staff members act carelessly or negligently, residents may suffer. If you believe your family member has been neglected or abused in a Maryland group home, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim and seek financial compensation. The knowledgeable Hagerstown, MD personal injury lawyer at Serafini Law can explain the laws that apply to these cases and fight for your loved one’s right to hold the staff accountable.

What Does Staff Negligence in a Group Home Look Like?

Negligence occurs when a caregiver or facility does not act carefully and causes harm. In a group home, this can happen in many ways. Staff might ignore your loved one’s medical needs, such as not checking on their health or waiting too long to get treatment. Unsafe conditions like wet floors, broken furniture, or unlocked doors can also put your loved one in danger. Medication mistakes are another issue. For example, skipping doses, giving the wrong medicine, or not following a doctor’s plan can quickly put your loved one’s health at serious risk.

Lack of supervision is yet another serious problem. If your loved one is left alone, they may wander, fall, or even be harmed by another resident. Just one careless act can cause serious injury or illness for someone who depends on staff for daily care. By knowing the warning signs, you can act quickly to protect your loved one from further harm.

Maryland Laws Governing Group Homes

Maryland law gives residents of group homes important rights and protections. For example, Maryland Health–General Code § 19-344 addresses the rights of residents in assisted living and related facilities. This includes the right to be treated with dignity and to receive proper care. Maryland laws also require group homes to follow safety standards and have enough trained staff to care for residents. If a group home does not hire enough staff, the chances of accidents and injuries go up.

Evidence That Can Help Prove Staff Negligence in a Group Home

You will need strong evidence to prove negligence in a Maryland group home. That evidence must show that the staff failed to provide proper care and that this failure harmed your loved one. Some of the most important types of evidence include:

• Medical records reflecting hospital visits, untreated conditions, or documentation of unexplained injuries.

• Photos and videos with proof of bedsores, bruises, unsafe conditions, or poor hygiene.

• Witness statements that include testimony from residents, visitors, or staff members who observed neglect or abuse.

• Inspection reports containing findings from the Maryland Department of Health or the Office of Health Care Quality that show violations.

• Expert opinions from doctors or care specialists who explain how the facility failed to meet proper care standards.

• Written notes and records kept by families that document conversations with staff and administrators and track incidents over time.

Contact a Hagerstown, MD Group Home Abuse Attorney Today

If you suspect that your loved one has suffered harm in a Maryland group home, act fast. With over 12 years of experience, Attorney A.J. Serafini knows how to build a strong negligence claim. He will give your case personal attention from start to finish. As a life-long resident of Hagerstown, he knows the area and the local legal system well. You can count on strong advocacy and a lawyer who is truly committed to seeking justice.

Contact an experienced Washington County, MD personal injury lawyer today at 240-744-1600 to schedule a free consultation. We offer contingency fee billing, so you pay no attorney’s fees unless we win.