It is a sad reality that some criminals will take advantage of senior citizens’ hard work and savings. There may always be bad people in the world, but that doesn’t mean you or your elderly loved one has to put up with becoming a victim. If you suspect that someone has scammed, stolen from, or otherwise financially exploited an elderly person, the victim has rights. Talk to the elder financial abuse attorneys at Henshaw Law Office for an overview of potential legal actions you can take to get your money back.
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to elder financial abuse. It is easier to prevent abuse from happening than to try to reverse the damage financial exploitation has caused. If you are someone close to your elderly loved one, it can be your job to keep an eye out for signs of financial abuse. It is especially important for someone to do this job if the senior citizen starts to show signs of dementia or diminished mental capacity. Issues that should send up red flags for financial abuse include:
Elders most at risk of financial abuse include those with lack of knowledge about finances, physically frail seniors, those isolated from friends and family, and those with significant assets staying in nursing homes or long-term care facilities. Financial abusers aren’t always strangers and scammers. Oftentimes, they are caretakers, family members, and family friends. Keep a close eye on your loved one’s finances, and take immediate action if you notice anything amiss.
Do not hesitate to involve the authorities as soon as you suspect elder financial abuse. Call the police and report your suspicions about the perpetrator. Financial exploitation is theft, and law enforcement should know about it. If a police investigation confirms your suspicions, there may be a criminal case against the perpetrator. Your exploited loved one may also have the right to pursue compensation through a civil claim. It is up to you or your loved one to file this type of claim; the city will not do it for you.
Call (408) 599-1305 to get in touch with Henshaw Law Office. Our San Jose personal injury attorneys will discuss your case with you during a one-on-one consultation, and help you explore your legal future. Your loved one may be able to fight for reimbursement of lost funds, as well as additional recovery for emotional distress. You may pursue a civil claim at the same time as an ongoing criminal case in California. Don’t wait – if someone is financially abusing a senior citizen in your family, reach out to our firm to request your initial consultation.
