A recent legal dispute in Iowa has brought attention to the complicated nature of elder law and civil rights, as attorney Beau Bergmann and his law firm filed a lawsuit against Henry County, the Henry County District Court, the county attorney, and the Mt. Pleasant chief of police. The lawsuit concerns a search warrant related to Bergmann’s financial records following allegations of elder abuse in 2023. Situations like this highlight why consulting with our West Des Moines, IA elder law lawyer team can be crucial for families and professionals dealing with elder care disputes and legal protections.
According to court filings, Bergmann and his firm maintained a lawyer trust account at Wayland State Bank to deposit client funds. In August 2023, the Mt. Pleasant chief of police and the county attorney applied for a search warrant to access account information, alleging that Bergmann had improperly received funds from a mentally incapacitated individual. The affidavit submitted to the court claimed that Bergmann had “stolen or fraudulently obtained” funds, although the accounts in question legally belonged to the clients, not the attorney. District Associate Judge Jonathan Stensvaag approved the warrant based on the affidavit.
Bergmann now seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, claiming civil rights violations related to the alleged improper issuance of the warrant and invasion of privacy. The lawsuit underscores the high stakes in elder care cases and the legal responsibilities of attorneys managing client funds, particularly when vulnerable adults are involved.
The background of the elder abuse allegations is tied to a May 2023 civil petition filed against Bergmann by attorney Steven E. Ort, representing the conservator of the incapacitated individual. Ort alleged that Bergmann had accepted $20,000 from the individual while the person’s financial matters were under a court-appointed conservator and then refused to return the funds. Court filings also noted that Bergmann’s license to practice law had been suspended briefly in 2023 and that he had previously faced multiple sanctions between 2015 and 2020 for ethical violations, including mishandling client funds, lack of diligence, and missed court obligations.
How We Help In Elder Abuse Cases
Cases like this emphasize the importance of legal guidance for families and institutions overseeing senior care. Working with our West Des Moines elder law attorneys can help make sure that the rights of vulnerable adults are protected and that families understand their legal options when concerns arise. Our nursing home abuse lawyers assist clients in investigating potential financial exploitation, neglect, or misconduct within care facilities and private arrangements.
Our assisted living abuse lawyers help families and guardians address issues involving mismanagement, abuse, or improper financial handling. Whether pursuing claims or addressing legal disputes involving conservatorships or trusts, our lawyers focus on protecting the well-being and legal rights of seniors.
If your family is concerned about elder abuse, financial exploitation, or care home negligence, our West Des Moines elder law lawyer team at the Law Group of Iowa is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how our nursing home abuse lawyers can guide you through legal processes while safeguarding your loved one’s rights and assets. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you with all of your legal needs. We also offer free consultations, so you can connect with a member of our team at no charge to discuss your case. Don’t wait until it’s too late—get in touch now to get started on your path to justice.
