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Financial Elder Abuse
Welcome to our Financial Elder Abuse resource center in California. We are committed to shedding light on this critical issue and providing information and legal resources to protect seniors from financial exploitation and abuse. Financial elder abuse is a serious concern, and our goal is to empower seniors and their families with knowledge and assistance to safeguard their financial well-being and dignity.
Understanding Financial Elder Abuse
Financial elder abuse encompasses various actions and tactics that target vulnerable seniors and result in the improper or illegal acquisition, control, or use of their financial resources. These actions may include:
- Scams and Fraud: Deceptive schemes, telemarketing scams, lottery fraud, and other fraudulent activities designed to trick seniors into giving away their money or personal information.
- Exploitation by Caregivers: Unauthorized use of an elder's assets or funds by caregivers, family members, or others who have access to their financial affairs.
- Undue Influence: Coercion, manipulation, or pressure exerted on an elder to change their will, trust, or financial arrangements to benefit the abuser.
- Identity Theft: Unauthorized use of an elder's personal information to access their financial accounts or open new accounts in their name.
- Isolation: Keeping the senior isolated from family and friends to gain control over their finances and prevent detection of abuse.
California's Protections Against Financial Elder Abuse
California has robust laws and regulations in place to combat financial elder abuse and protect seniors. These protections include:
- The California Elder Abuse and Dependent Adult Civil Protection Act (EADACPA), which provides civil remedies for elder abuse, including financial abuse.
- Criminal penalties for those found guilty of financial elder abuse, including restitution to victims.
- Reporting requirements for financial institutions, healthcare professionals, and others who suspect financial elder abuse.
How We Can Help
If you suspect financial elder abuse or have concerns about the financial well-being of a senior family member, we are here to assist you. Our experienced elder law attorneys can:
- Advocate for Victims: We work to protect the rights of victims and hold abusers accountable through legal action.
- Recover Stolen Assets: We pursue legal remedies to recover assets taken from elders through fraud, undue influence, or exploitation.
- Prevent Future Abuse: We assist in implementing safeguards to prevent further abuse and exploitation, such as obtaining restraining orders or guardianships.