When to Call an Elder Exploitation Attorney

For many, it can be difficult to know when to call an elder exploitation attorney. Elder exploitation is unfortunately a very real concern in nursing homes and other healthcare and long-term care facilities throughout Wisconsin. Exploitation of nursing home residents and other aging individuals can lead to significant financial costs; and, in many cases, it can take an emotional toll on elderly victims as well. 

When Is It Time to Call an Elder Exploitation Attorney?

When is it time to call an elder exploitation attorney? Our attorneys are available to help in all of the following scenarios:

1. You Notice that Cash, Checks, or Credit Cards Have Gone Missing

Elder exploitation, or elder financial abuse, often involves theft of aging individuals’ cash, checks, or credit cards. If you notice that any cash, checks, or credit cards have gone missing, we strongly recommend that you speak with an elder exploitation attorney promptly. If a caregiver or other staff member has stolen from you (or your aging loved one), there is unfortunately a very good chance that they will do so again. An elder exploitation attorney can deal with the facility’s head office and work with the local authorities on your behalf as necessary.

2. You Notice Unexplained Charges on Your (or Your Aging Loved One’s) Bank Account or Credit Card

If you notice unexplained charges on your (or your aging loved one’s) bank account or credit card, we recommend speaking with an elder exploitation attorney promptly in this scenario as well. Someone does not have to have a debit card or credit card physically in their possession to make purchases online. A caregiver or staff member may have written down the information from your (or your loved one’s) card or made a copy of a card authorization form in the facility’s file. Either way, making unauthorized purchases is illegal, and it can—and should—be stopped right away.

3. Someone Asks About Modifying Your (or Your Aging Loved One’s) Estate Plan 

Another all-too-common form of elder exploitation involves pressuring nursing home residents and other aging individuals to modify their estate plans. No matter what, the terms of your estate plan are up to you, and you should not feel pressured by anyone to give away any of your property or to give them control of your estate after your passing. Changes to an estate plan that were made under duress can be undone, and an elder exploitation attorney can assist you with this as well. 

4. A Nursing Home or Other Facility Charges Unauthorized or Exorbitant Fees 

Charging unauthorized or exorbitant fees is another common form of elder exploitation in nursing homes and other facilities. All facilities should clearly disclose their fees in advance, and they should not bill for any items or services without prior authorization. If you are paying (or being asked to pay) more than you expected, you should not assume that you made a mistake or failed to read the fine print. Instead, you should talk to an experienced elder exploitation attorney about your legal rights and the options you have available. 

5. Any Time You Have Questions or Concerns 

Ultimately, you should call an elder exploitation attorney any time you have questions or concerns. You do not have to leave with uncertainty or with fear that someone is taking advantage of you. Talking to an elder exploitation attorney costs nothing, and you can rest assured that your attorney will only have your best interests in mind. 

Understanding How an Elder Exploitation Attorney Can Help 

Once you get in touch with an elder exploitation attorney, there are several ways that your attorney will be able to help you. Whether you have concerns yourself or you are concerned for a loved one, your attorney will be able to:

• Help you understand your legal rights and the options that are available to you;
• Help you choose between your options and walk you through the next steps in the process; 
• Communicate with the nursing home or other facility on your behalf, and involve the police as necessary; 
• Work to hold the nursing home or other facility responsible for the costs of your (or your aging loved one’s) elder exploitation; and, 
• Help you obtain any additional protection that you need (or that your aging loved one needs) for the future. 

Talk to an Elder Exploitation Attorney in Wisconsin for Free 

If you have questions about taking action against elder financial abuse, we invite you to get in touch. Boller & Vaughan has extensive experience handling these difficult cases. We understand the hardships you and your loved one may be facing, and we are committed to helping you achieve justice with confidence and dignity.

To speak with an experienced elder exploitation attorney in Wisconsin in strict confidence, call 608-268-0268 or request a free consultation online today. Boller & Vaughan serves clients throughout Wisconsin from our office in Madison.