Protecting the Rights of Vulnerable Seniors from Financial Exploitation
Elder financial abuse is a growing problem that affects countless older adults in Rochester and across New York. The financial exploitation of seniors can have devastating consequences, stripping them of their assets, independence, and security. If you suspect abuse of a loved one or need legal guidance regarding elder financial exploitation, the experienced Rochester elder financial abuse lawyers at Brown Chiari LLP are here to help.
Our attorneys are committed to holding perpetrators accountable and protecting seniors from further abuse. We take a holistic approach to elder law, ensuring that our clients receive compassionate support while aggressively pursuing justice. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you safeguard your family member’s rights and financial well-being.
Understanding Elder Financial Abuse
Elder financial abuse occurs when someone improperly or illegally uses an older person’s assets for personal gain. This type of abuse can be committed by family members, caregivers, financial professionals, or even financial institutions. Some common forms of elder financial abuse include:
- Theft of money or property
- Forgery of signatures on checks or legal documents
- Coercion or deception to gain control of an elderly person’s finances
- Unauthorized changes to wills, trusts, or other estate planning documents
- Excessive withdrawals, fraudulent investments, or large unauthorized transactions
The vast majority of elder financial abuse cases go unreported, leaving seniors vulnerable to ongoing exploitation. If you or someone you love is experiencing financial abuse, our team can help.
Who Is at Risk for Elder Financial Exploitation?
Seniors who are isolated, experiencing cognitive decline, or dependent on others for care are at a higher risk of financial abuse. The elderly often trust caregivers, family, or financial advisors, making them susceptible to fraudulent schemes and false pretenses.
Signs of Elder Financial Abuse
Recognizing the warning signs of financial exploitation is critical in protecting your loved one. Some red flags include:
- Sudden changes in financial accounts or missing assets
- Unexplained withdrawals, large transfers, or sizable gifts
- A new “friend” or caregiver gaining control of finances
- Sudden changes to estate planning documents
- Unpaid bills or inability to meet basic needs despite adequate financial resources
- Signs of physical abuse, emotional abuse, or neglect
If you notice these signs, it is crucial to act immediately. Law enforcement, social workers, and adult protective services can provide assistance, but legal action may also be necessary to recover stolen funds and hold the abusers accountable.
How Our Rochester Elder Law Attorneys Can Help
At Brown Chiari LLP, our elder law attorneys have extensive experience handling elder financial abuse cases. We take a multidisciplinary approach to address both the legal and financial complexities of these cases. Our attorneys work closely with forensic accountants, financial institutions, and other professionals to uncover fraud and recover misappropriated funds.
Legal Solutions for Elder Financial Abuse Victims
Depending on the circumstances, our attorney may take the following legal actions:
- Filing civil lawsuits to recover stolen assets
- Seeking court orders to revoke fraudulent financial transactions
- Establishing guardianships to protect vulnerable seniors
- Pursuing criminal charges against perpetrators
- Working with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to hold wrongdoers accountable
Our primary goal is to provide strong legal representation while ensuring that our clients receive the support they need to rebuild their life.
New York State Laws on Elder Financial Abuse
New York State has specific laws to protect seniors from financial abuse. Under elder law, victims and their families can seek restitution through both civil and criminal proceedings. Some important legal protections include:
- The New York State Elder Abuse Prevention Act, which provides penalties for financial exploitation
- The ability to pursue damages for fraud, undue influence, and breaches of fiduciary duty
- Legal remedies for victims of false pretenses, coercion, and deception
If you need help navigating New York elder law, our skilled attorneys are ready to provide expert guidance.
Why Choose Brown Chiari LLP?
Our firm is recognized among the best lawyers in elder law and personal injury litigation. Several of our attorneys have been named Super Lawyers, demonstrating our dedication to excellence in legal representation. We take a client-focused approach, ensuring that each victim and their family receive personalized legal solutions tailored to their unique needs.
When you work with our Rochester elder law team, you gain access to a trusted legal partner who will fight tirelessly to recover your assets and prevent further harm.
We Offer:
✔ Free initial consultations
✔ Proven success in elder financial abuse cases
✔ Compassionate and aggressive legal representation
✔ A strong network of resources to help victims recover
Take Action Today – Protect Your Loved One from Financial Abuse
If you believe an older person in your life is a victim of financial abuse, do not wait. Legal action can help recover stolen assets, prevent further abuse, and hold wrongdoers accountable.
Learn more about elder financial abuse cases. Call Brown Chiari LLP at (716) 681-7190 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elder Financial Abuse in Rochester
1. What should I do if I suspect elder financial abuse in Rochester?
If you suspect abuse, gather evidence and contact an experienced attorney immediately. You may also report concerns to adult protective services or law enforcement.
2. What legal options are available for victims of elder financial exploitation in New York?
Victims can file civil lawsuits to recover stolen funds, seek court orders to regain control of their financial affairs, and pursue criminal charges against the abuser.
3. Can financial institutions be held liable for elder financial abuse?
Yes, in some cases, financial institutions that fail to prevent or report suspicious transactions can be held responsible for enabling financial exploitation.
4. How can an elder law attorney help protect a senior’s financial interests?
An experienced elder law attorney can help seniors establish protective legal structures such as trusts, guardianships, and powers of attorney to safeguard their future financial security.
5. What resources are available for elder abuse victims in New York?
New York State offers various resources, including community support programs, legal aid services, and social workers dedicated to protecting seniors from abusive situations.