Cleveland Elder Financial Abuse Lawyers

Protecting the Rights and Dignity of Elder Abuse Victims

Elder financial abuse is a heartbreaking and distressing issue that affects countless seniors and their families. This form of exploitation involves the improper or unauthorized use of an elderly person's funds, property, or assets, leaving victims not only financially burdened but emotionally betrayed and violated. At Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP, we believe that no one should endure such exploitation, and we are dedicated to fighting for justice and compensation for victims of elder financial abuse in Cleveland, OH.

Our team of experienced elder financial abuse lawyers understands the unique challenges that come with addressing these cases. We pride ourselves on our ability to offer compassionate, thorough, and effective legal representation to families in their time of need. Whether the abuse is committed by a caregiver, family member, or unscrupulous organization, we are here to stand by your side.

If you or a loved one has been affected by elder financial abuse in Cleveland, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP today at (216) 600-0114 to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice.

Why Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP?

With over 70 years of experience helping clients across Ohio, Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP has become a trusted name in legal representation. Our attorneys have recovered more than $1 billion in settlements and verdicts, demonstrating our tenacity and skill in handling even the most challenging cases.

When you choose our firm to represent your elder financial abuse case, you can expect:

• Comprehensive Investigations: We leave no stone unturned in identifying the responsible parties and gathering the evidence needed to build a strong case.
• Personalized Attention: We treat every case with care and focus, taking the time to understand your story and craft a strategy tailored to your needs.
• Aggressive Representation: Whether negotiating with insurance companies or litigating in court, we fight tirelessly to secure the compensation and justice you deserve.
• Contingency-based Fees: You won’t pay a cent unless we win your case.

At Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP, we believe in holding wrongdoers accountable for their actions. Our team is committed to providing the support and results you need to protect your family’s financial security and dignity.

What Is Financial Elder Abuse?

It is a type of abuse that goes unnoticed and unreported because those responsible often prey on people from who they have earned trust. Previous studies suggested losses to seniors in the neighborhood of $3 billion per year. According to a newer study, the amount is likely 12 times higher—$36.48 billion each year! Even more surprising is that the seniors most likely to be exploited are relatively young and well educated. It’s important for you to recognize how it occurs so you can help put a stop to it.

Common Forms of Financial Elder Abuse

There are a number of ways that financial abuse can occur, but some are more common than others. Here are some of the ways it happens and what you can do to recognize it:

• Directly stealing from the elderly: Many of the elderly residents in nursing homes keep funds in their personal belongings. Financial abuse can come in the form of another resident or staff members taking cash from the elderly.
• Accessing bank accounts: There are some situations in which the abuser earns the trust of the resident and may become an authorized user on his or her bank account. They may then use this access to take money our of the bank for their own personal gain.
• Forging signatures on checks: This involves someone close to the elderly accessing checks and forging his or her signature in order to either cash it or use it for one of their own purchases.

Common Signs of Elder Financial Abuse

Recognizing the signs of elder financial abuse is crucial. Often, these violations occur behind closed doors, leaving family members unaware of the exploitation until significant damage has already been done. Common warning signs to watch for include:

• Unexplained Withdrawals or Transfers: Unexpected activity on bank accounts, such as large withdrawals or frequent transfers, can be a red flag.
• Sudden Changes in Financial Documents: Modifications to wills, powers of attorney, or account beneficiaries without proper explanation could indicate coercion.
• Missing Possessions: Disappearance of valuables, cash, or personal belongings may point to theft.
• Discrepancies in Billing: Unexpected or unusual charges for services never rendered can signify fraudulent activity within nursing homes or by caregivers.
• New “Friends” or Caregivers: Individuals who display undue interest in the elder’s finances or begin to isolate them from family may have ulterior motives.
• Confusion or Anxiety About Money: Elders who are suddenly uncertain or concerned about their financial situation may be victims of manipulation or fraud.

If any of these signs seem familiar, it is essential to act quickly. Identifying abuse early doesn’t just protect finances—it shields seniors from continued emotional and psychological harm.

Who Is Commonly Responsible for Financially Abusing the Elderly?

Family members should not only recognize the potential signs of financial abuse when they have a loved one in a nursing home. It’s important to understand the various parties who may be responsible for the abuse, so they know how to truly take action.

There are some individuals who may be more commonly responsible for financially abusing the elderly, and these are the people against whom you’ll take legal action.

• Another Resident in the Nursing Home: Residents are often fraternizing and found in group settings, so it’s easy for them to build trust in one another. Unfortunately, it’s easy for that trust to be taken advantage of and one resident can steal from another, especially when it’s common for them to be in the same room and know where personal belongings are stored.
• A Staff Member: Staff members may be aware of personal funds, where cash and checks can be found, and ways to access the accounts of the elderly residents in the nursing home. There are also times that they may be needed to help the elderly with purchases. This leaves them in a position where they have access to the elderly individual’s finances and if abused, they can benefit.
• A Family Member: You may not want to think that the person financially abusing your elderly loved one is another family member, but it does happen. Family members are often trusted and given access to bank accounts when they shouldn’t have it. You should recognize when someone is added to a bank account or when they’re visiting your elderly loved one more as it can be an indicator of deceptive behavior.

Ohio Laws Protecting Seniors from Financial Abuse

Ohio has set forth comprehensive laws and regulations to safeguard the elderly from financial exploitation. Understanding these protections can empower families to take action and seek justice for their loved ones.

Ohio Revised Code Protections

The Ohio Revised Code (ORC), specifically Section 3721.13, provides robust rights to individuals in nursing homes. These include the right to manage personal financial affairs without external interference unless explicit consent is given. Nursing homes are prohibited from mismanaging residents’ finances, and any involvement must be fully transparent.

Mandatory Accounting Requirements

Nursing home facilities and caregivers are required to maintain accurate and detailed accounts of all financial transactions conducted on behalf of a resident. Regular audits are mandated to prevent financial irregularities, and residents have full access to their records.

Reporting and Enforcement

Victims or their loved ones can report suspected financial abuse to the Ohio Department of Health, Adult Protective Services, or law enforcement agencies. Additionally, Ohio law provides legal recourse for victims to recover damages through civil lawsuits.

By working with a trusted elder financial abuse lawyer, you can better understand these protections and leverage them to hold perpetrators accountable.

Types of Compensation Available

Victims of elder financial abuse and their families deserve justice and financial recovery for the harm they’ve suffered. At Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP, we are dedicated to pursuing comprehensive compensation on behalf of our clients.

Recovery of Stolen Assets

Our primary goal is to recover funds or property stolen by the abuser. Whether it’s money withdrawn from accounts, transferred assets, or missing valuables, our team works diligently to reclaim what was wrongfully taken.

Financial Losses

Beyond returning stolen assets, victims may be entitled to additional compensation for the costs of restoring accounts, legal expenses, and related financial burdens.

Non-Economic Damages

The emotional toll of financial abuse can be significant. Anxiety, betrayal, and loss of trust are valid hardships, and we seek to ensure you are compensated for these damages.

Punitive Damages

When the abuse involves intentional misconduct or egregious actions, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter others.

Take Action Now

Elder financial abuse is a serious violation that cannot be ignored. If you suspect your loved one has been a victim, turn to Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP for help. Our Cleveland elder financial abuse lawyers are ready to provide the advocacy and support your family needs during this challenging time.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Together, we can protect your loved one’s rights and work toward securing the compensation and justice they deserve.

Schedule your consultation by calling our office at (216) 600-0114 or by filling out our online form now. Don’t wait—the sooner we act, the stronger your case will be.