How To Prove Financial Elder Abuse
- Dan T. Matrafajlo
- Wed Oct 2021
- Elder Abuse,
- 0
The older we get, the more susceptible we become to all types of elder abuse. One type of elder abuse that is more prevalent amongst elderly victims is financial elder abuse. Elder abuse is defined as a single or repeated act or lack of appropriate actions that takes place in any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, causing serious harm to an elderly individual. Elder abuse can take many forms, including neglect, abandonment, sexual, psychological, physical and financial.
The most difficult type of elder abuse to identify is financial elder abuse. The reason is that the signs of this type of elder abuse are generally harder to uncover and realize by loved ones of the victim. Proving financial elder abuse may also be complicated. It is best to immediately hire an experienced New Jersey financial elder abuse attorney immediately if you believe that your loved one is subject to abuse.
Signs of Financial Elder Abuse
Below are some key warning signs that may indicate your loved has become a victim of elder financial abuse:
- Money is missing from their financial accounts
- There has been excessive cash withdrawals or use of their credit cards
- There are missed or forged checks
- Your elder loved one does not have adequate food or basic necessities in their home
- Property or valuable are missing from their home
- There has been a noticeable change in your loved one’s mood or demeanor
- There is an excessive pile of invoices, bills or collection letters
Proving Financial Elder Abuse
Proving financial elder abuse can become complicated, especially if you are seeking legal justice without the help of an experienced New Jersey elder abuse attorney. To win a New Jersey financial elder abuse case, you must prove that:
- It is “more likely than not” that the abuse took place
- The victim is 65 years or older when the abuse took place
- The perpetrator knew or should have known that their actions were likely to cause harm to the elderly victim
It should be noted that a plaintiff’s burden of proof in civil court is far less than in criminal court. This lower standard of proof makes it easier for elder abuse attorneys to successfully make their case and seek justice for the abused victims.
Call a New Jersey Elder Abuse Attorney Today!
The legal team at Beninato & Matrafajlo Attorneys at Law, LLC is dedicated to helping our injured clients reach the best monetary settlement when they are involved in any type of accidents.
If you suspect a loved one has become the victim of elder abuse, you need an experienced and caring legal advocate on your side. Our experienced New Jersey elder abuse attorneys are available to personally review your case. Call us at 908-355-7100 to schedule a free, complimentary consultation with our legal team today.
