Ask Reggi Your Question Now
Can you summarize NHRS 631:8?
ASSAULT AND RELATED OFFENSES > Criminal Neglect of Elderly, Disabled, or Impaired Adults.
Short Summary
This section of the New Hampshire Revised Statutes, under the Criminal Code, specifically addresses the criminal neglect of elderly, disabled, or impaired adults. It defines key terms such as ‘adult,’ ‘caregiver,’ ‘disabled adult,’ ’elderly adult,’ ‘impaired adult,’ ’neglect,’ ‘person,’ ‘serious bodily injury,’ and ‘undue influence.’ The section establishes that any caregiver who purposely causes serious bodily injury to an elderly, disabled, or impaired adult by neglect is guilty of a class A felony, while a caregiver who knowingly or recklessly causes such injury is guilty of a class B felony. The section also clarifies that it does not infringe upon a person’s right to self-determination or right to refuse medical treatment, and it does not imply abuse, neglect, exploitation, or the need for protective services solely based on reliance on spiritual means of treatment through prayer. Overall, this section aims to protect vulnerable adults and hold caregivers accountable for their actions.
Whom does it apply to?
Caregivers
What does it govern?
Criminal Neglect of Elderly, Disabled, or Impaired Adults
What are exemptions?
This section does not alter or impair a person's right to self-determination or right to refuse medical treatment, and it does not imply abuse, neglect, exploitation, or the need for protective services solely based on reliance on spiritual means of treatment through prayer.
What are the Penalties?
Purposely causing serious bodily injury to an elderly, disabled, or impaired adult by neglect is a class A felony. Knowingly or recklessly causing serious bodily injury to an elderly, disabled, or impaired adult by neglect is a class B felony.
Jurisdiction
New Hampshire