The North Dakota Vulnerable Adult Protection defines “vulnerable adult” as an adult who has a substantial mental or functional impairment which may include their age status.

The law protects vulnerable adults from any abuse, or any willful act or omission of a caregiver or any other person which results in physical injury, mental anguish, unreasonable confinement, sexual abuse or exploitation, or financial exploitation. The law states that if any abuse is reported and found to be happening, the department of human services will arrange for the provision of adult protective services for the victim. If these provisions are refused by the victim or guardian, there are other remedies including: the appointment of a guardian; a restraining order against the offender; removal of an abusive or neglectful guardian; provision of appropriate treatment; criminal prosecution of the offender; or any other available administrative, legal, or other remedies on behalf of the victim.

For the full law, click here.

For more information on violence against people with disabilities or elder abuse, click here.