Financial abuse can be devastating. It occurs when someone takes advantage of a person’s finances – often targeting the elderly or those unable to manage their own affairs. It might be as straightforward as stealing money or as insidious as manipulating a vulnerable person into changing their will. If you suspect that you or a loved one is a victim of financial abuse, our specialist Financial Abuse Solicitors are here to provide support, expert legal advice, and swift action to safeguard your family’s assets and rights.
Schedule my free consultationFinancial abuse involves the misuse, theft, or wrongful control of someone’s money, assets or property without their full consent. It can take many forms, including:
Our financial abuse solicitors explain what financial abuse is and the key signs to look out for in this detailed guide.
Read the guide to financial abuseWhile anyone can become a victim of financial abuse, it most commonly affects older adults and individuals who are vulnerable due to circumstances like:
We will advise you whether the claim is likely to succeed and help you to formulate a strategy that protects you and that you are comfortable with in a dispute that may involve close family members.
Our approach includes using alternatives to contested court proceedings including mediation, where appropriate, and not losing sight of the emotional impact the involvement of lawyers can have at such a difficult time.
If you have a dispute or disagreement, or are concerned that one might arise, our expert financial abuse solicitors will guide you. We can also work with you to avoid such issues arising in the future.
We offer a free initial consultation, which can take place online, by phone or in one of our conveniently-located offices throughout the UK.
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We understand that legal costs can be a worry. Depending on your case, you may be eligible for:
We will always provide completely transparent estimates on costs and will be happy to discuss funding options with you during a free consultation.
About David:
David has specialist knowledge in contentious trust and estate disputes involving the administration of estates, will validity claims, proprietary estoppel, Inheritance Act claims and also disputes involving trustees, executors and beneficiaries.
About Carolyn:
Carolyn is an experienced lawyer who deals with civil and commercial disputes. She is qualified to practise and represent clients in courts in Scotland, as well as England and Wales.A financial abuse claim usually has to be brought within six years of the abuse occurring. However, this can sometimes be extended if the abuse only comes to light at a later date.
You should seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Indications that a loved one is subject to financial abuse can often include:
Yes, under the Fraud Act 2006, it is a criminal offence to take advantage of a position of trust for financial gain. Coercive and controlling behaviour can also be a criminal offence.
The length of time it takes to resolve a financial abuse claim will depend on the complexity of the case.
Investigations of documents can normally be completed within six months. After that, if a case is able to be resolved by negotiation, it can normally be concluded within six months.
However, if the courts are needed to recover lost funds, the process can often take around three years.
Yes, it is possible to bring a claim after the victim has died if you believe a loved one was financially abused. Our financial abuse solicitors will be able to discuss the merits of your case with you.
To demonstrate that financial abuse took place, you will need to demonstrate that funds were stolen and that emotional manipulation took place.
Documents to prove that might include:
