Top Berkeley, MO Financial Elder Abuse Lawyers Near You

What Is Financial Elder Abuse?

Elder financial abuse is, sadly, more common than people realize. Bad actors take advantage of older adults and exploit them and their bank accounts, costing them billions of dollars per year. Financial exploitation can take on many forms, including online scams, phone scams, and exploiting a power of attorney role. Friends, family, neighbors, health care workers, nursing home staff, financial advisers, and others can be perpetrators.

What Are Some Examples of Situations Where I Might Need a Financial Elder Abuse Lawyer?

An elder law attorney can protect your loved one’s rights if you suspect they are being financially exploited. You should contact an elder law attorney if you’ve noticed any of the following changes in your loved one’s financial situation:

• Sudden changes in banking practices, including opening new accounts
• Large withdrawals of money
• Adding new names to accounts or credit cards
• Sudden changes in a will, power of attorney, or other estate planning documents
• Disappearing valuables

How Can a Lawyer Help Me With Elder Law?

An elder law lawyer helps ensure your or your loved one’s legal and financial affairs are in order and that rights are protected. An experienced elder law lawyer with experience that relates to your situation can provide essential knowledge, insight, and support, including: 

• Identifying resources in Berkeley and Missouri for the elderly
• Reporting nursing home abuse or neglect to the authorities
• Investigating and gathering evidence
• Determining liability
• Evaluating damages
• Negotiation and mediation
• Litigation and trial representation
• Enforcement of court orders
• Filing legal motions

What Could Happen if I Don’t Hire an Elder Law Lawyer?

If you don’t hire an elder law lawyer, you might face difficulties managing legal and financial issues for yourself or an elderly loved one. Without proper guidance, you could make mistakes in estate planning, leading to family disputes or financial losses. You might struggle to navigate complex Medicaid rules or face challenges securing appropriate care. In cases of elder abuse or neglect, you may not know how to protect your loved one’s rights. A lawyer helps you address these issues effectively, ensuring your loved one’s well-being and securing their financial future.

What Questions Should I Ask When Trying To Find an Elder Law Lawyer in Berkeley?

These questions can help you decide if you feel comfortable and confident that a lawyer has the qualifications, experience, and ability to manage your case well. Many lawyers offer free consultations that allow you to understand your options and get specific legal advice before hiring them. The top questions to ask include:

• How have you handled cases like mine?
• What are the potential outcomes of my case?
• What is the timeline for my case?
• Are there alternative dispute resolutions available, like mediation or arbitration?
• What is your billing and fee structure?
• How long have you been practicing in Missouri?
• Do you have access to experts who can support my case?
• How do you approach evidence collection?
• What is your approach to negotiations and settlements?
• What will my involvement be during the process? 

Tips for Hiring an Elder Law Lawyer

Finding a lawyer who is right for you and will represent your best interests is an essential first step in managing your case and protecting your rights. Find a lawyer who understands your case, knows your needs and goals, and has the experience to get the best outcome. Things to do: 

• Ask for recommendations
• Research lawyers online
• Schedule consultations
• Review experience and expertise
• Talk about billing and fees
• Trust your instincts