Protecting What Your Loved One Worked a Lifetime to Build
Financial exploitation is one of the most prevalent — and most underreported — forms of elder abuse. It can be carried out by strangers, professional caregivers, or even trusted family members. California law treats financial exploitation of elders and dependent adults as a serious civil and criminal matter, and victims have the right to pursue legal remedies.
What is Financial Exploitation?
Financial exploitation occurs when someone illegally or improperly uses an elder or dependent adult’s money, property, or assets for their own benefit. It can range from outright theft to more subtle manipulation — such as pressuring someone to change a will or sign over property.
Common Warning Signs
- Unexplained withdrawals or unusual bank account activity
- Missing cash, valuables, or personal property
- Unpaid bills or sudden financial hardship despite adequate resources
- Sudden changes to wills, trusts, powers of attorney, or beneficiary designations
- A caregiver or new associate showing unusual interest in finances
- Your loved one appearing confused about or unaware of recent financial decisions
- Forged signatures or documents signed under duress
Who May Be Responsible
- Professional caregivers or home health workers
- Nursing home or facility staff
- Financial advisors, attorneys, or other professionals in positions of trust
- Family members or acquaintances who gain access to finances
- Anyone holding power of attorney who abuses that authority
How Forbes-Roberts Law Helps
Financial exploitation cases require careful forensic review of financial records, legal documents, and account histories. We work with financial experts when needed to trace misappropriated assets, identify responsible parties, and pursue recovery. We also seek damages beyond simple restitution — including attorney’s fees and enhanced remedies available under California’s Elder Abuse Act.
What Families Should Do Next
If you suspect financial exploitation, act quickly. Gather financial statements, account records, and any documents that may have been recently changed. Contact your loved one’s bank to flag suspicious activity. Then call us — assets can be dissipated fast, and California’s statutes of limitations are strict.
What Was Taken Can Be Fought For.
Financial exploitation of an elder or dependent adult is not just a betrayal — it is against the law. We pursue every available remedy to recover what was stolen and hold those responsible accountable.These cases move fast — and so do the people who commit financial exploitation. The sooner you contact us, the better positioned we are to trace misappropriated assets and build the strongest possible case.
The first conversation is free. So is everything after it — unless we recover compensation for you and your family. You have nothing to lose by calling us.