FRESNO, CALIFORNIA - The woman accused of letting her elderly relative starve to death pleaded not guilty to all charges against her last Friday.  91-year-old Maria Lopez was just 35-pounds when she was found dead in her home in December.

Now her caretaker and great-niece, Stephanie Hernandez, is facing several charges, including involuntary manslaughter and elder abuse.  Family members attended Hernandez’s first court hearing, but cameras were not allowed inside the courtroom.  Relatives said Lopez was a kind woman, and they are shocked at how she died.  Hernandez is scheduled back in court next week.  Her bail remains at $110,000.

With its main offices located in San Diego, Berman & Riedel, LLP is a Southern California law firm that represents victims of elder abuse and neglect throughout the state.  If you would like to speak with one of the firm’s experienced and knowledgeable nursing home attorneys, call Berman & Riedel, LLP today at (858) 350-8855.  We will happily provide you and your family with an initial free consultation to discuss with you the rights you may have under California and federal law.  To learn more about the firm, www.preventelderabuse.com.