The phone rang, its shrill cry cutting through the quiet afternoon like a shard of glass. It was Sarah, frantic and on the verge of tears. Her mother, Eleanor, had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and Sarah, as her designated power of attorney, was struggling to manage her mother’s affairs. Eleanor’s new caretaker, a smooth-talking individual named David, seemed overly involved in her finances. Sarah suspected something was amiss; large sums were disappearing from Eleanor’s accounts, and David refused to provide any clear accounting.
What Is Power of Attorney Abuse?
Power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that grants an individual the authority to act on behalf of another person. This can include making financial decisions, handling medical care, or managing property. While POA is often a helpful tool for individuals who are unable to manage their own affairs due to illness, age, or disability, it can also be vulnerable to abuse. Power of attorney abuse occurs when someone appointed as an agent under a POA uses their position for personal gain, exploiting the vulnerable individual they are supposed to protect.
How Can I Protect Myself from Power of Attorney Abuse?
Choosing a trustworthy and responsible individual as your power of attorney is crucial. Discuss your wishes openly with family members or close friends, and consider involving an attorney in the process. Regularly review financial statements and communicate with your agent to ensure transparency. If you suspect abuse, contact an attorney specializing in elder law or contact Adult Protective Services.
What Steps Should I Take if I Suspect Power of Attorney Abuse?
“It felt like a fog had lifted,” Sarah recalled. After her initial phone call, she contacted Steve Bliss, an experienced estate planning attorney in Temecula. He listened patiently to Sarah’s concerns, offering reassurance and guidance. Steve explained that Eleanor, as the principal, had the right to revoke the power of attorney at any time.
He advised Sarah on how to gather evidence of David’s potential misconduct and helped her file a petition with the court to terminate David’s power of attorney. The court appointed a neutral third party to manage Eleanor’s finances while the investigation was ongoing.
How Can an Estate Planning Attorney Help?
Estate planning attorneys are experts in navigating complex legal matters related to wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. They can help you create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes and protects your assets. In cases of suspected POA abuse, they can provide crucial legal counsel, guide you through the court process, and advocate for your best interests.
About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is Temecula Probate Law. The Law Firm Of Steven F. Bliss Esq. is a Temecula Estate Planning Attorney. Steve Bliss is an experienced probate attorney. Steve Bliss is an Estate Planning Lawyer. The probate process has many steps in in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Steve Bliss Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Steve Bliss Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Steve Bliss Law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate. Call Steve Bliss Law Today for estate planning, trusts and probate.
My skills are as follows:
● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.
● Estate Planning Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.
● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.
● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.
● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.
● Free consultation.
Services Offered:
| estate planning | revocable living trust | wills |
| living trust | family trust | estate planning attorney near me |
Map To Steve Bliss Law in Temecula:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RL4LUmGoyQQDpNUy9
>
Address:
The Law Firm of Steven F. Bliss Esq.43920 Margarita Rd ste f, Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 223-7000
Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “What are the risks of not having an estate plan?” Or “Who is responsible for handling probate?” or “Why would someone choose a living trust over a will? and even: “How does bankruptcy affect my credit score?” or any other related questions that you may have about his estate planning, probate, and banckruptcy law practice.