SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Co-sponsored by San Diego City Attorney Heather Ferbert, Assembly Bill 561 was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday. The bill aims to help the elderly and dependents have more accessibility in filing restraining orders.
California offers Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Restraining Orders (EAROs) to help elderly and dependent groups take legal actions against someone who may be abusing or neglecting them.
The new legislation allows EAROS to be obtained through electronic filing of petitions, the individual to attend hearings remotely and courts to serve notices in more practical ways.
“AB 561 ensures that seniors and dependent adults can access the protections they need without unnecessary barriers,” Ferbert said.
Last year, nearly one in six people 60 years of age or older experienced a form of abuse in community settings, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Justice in Aging Director of Equity in Elder Justice, Vivianne Mbaku, believes systematic barriers make it more difficult for impacted communities to receive help.
“AB 561 increases older Californians access justice and lessens the burdens placed on older adults seeking protection from abuse and exploitation,” Mbaku said. “Justice in Aging is delighted to see Governor Newsom stand with elder justice advocates in increasing the accessibility of the courts.”
The law was co-sponsored by the San Diego City Attorney’s office, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu, Justice in Aging, Elder Law and Advocacy, Bet Tzedek and the Civil Prosecutors Coalition.
“No one should be forced to choose between safety and the difficulty of navigating the court system,” Ferbert said. “This law makes the process more accessible and more equitable.”
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