Attorneys for Financial Abuse In Nursing Homes

Did your loved one become the victim of financial abuse? Did it happen while they were living in a nursing home? If so, you should contact the Illinois nursing home abuse lawyers of Peck Ritchey, LLC immediately so we can help you seek justice and compensation.

Elder financial abuse, also called financial exploitation, occurs when a person improperly or illegally uses an older adult’s or a disabled adult’s property, money, or resources for personal gain, profit, or benefit. It happens in nursing homes and assisted living facilities because the patients are typically vulnerable. Many don’t have the mental or physical capacity to stop what’s happening or even to understand or remember these instances. Some might not have family or friends looking out for their well-being or advocating for their rights.

Unfortunately, the people you think you can trust, such as nurses, administrative staff, and even other residents, are typically the ones to commit financial abuse. Peck Ritchey, LLC understands the devastation you and your loved one must feel. You don’t want to see them suffer any further but might not know what steps you should take next to hold the at-fault parties liable.

There are legal options you can pursue. The nursing home financial abuse lawyers of Peck Ritchey, LLC have over 100 years of experience handling cases like yours. You can depend on us to fight by your side until the very end to secure a favorable outcome. Call us at (855) 328-5787 to learn more about our legal services during a free consultation.

What Is Financial Abuse?

Illinois statute § 720 5/17-56 defines financial exploitation as:

  • The intentional illegal use of an elderly or disabled person’s assets or resources by a person in a position of trust; or
  • Obtaining control over an elderly or disabled person’s property with acts of intimidation or deception.

Anyone could commit this offense against a nursing home resident, but the most common abusers include:

  • A doctor, nurse, or another healthcare professional
  • An administrative staff member
  • A maintenance worker
  • A caregiver
  • A medical assistant
  • Another patient

Financial abuse can happen in many ways. The most common methods include:

  • Stealing money or personal property
  • Using a credit card without the cardholder’s authorization
  • Accessing finances with fraudulent or deceptive tactics
  • Using assets without obtaining the owner’s permission first
  • Forging signatures on a check or legal document
  • Gaining access to money by threatening or instilling fear
  • Getting the resident to sign over a deed, power of attorney, or will through coercion, manipulation, or threats
  • Promising quality medical attention and services in exchange for property or money

Older adults living in nursing facilities are the perfect targets for various types of abuse. Employees interact with them every day and learn about their personal lives, including details about their finances. That leaves residents open to being taken advantage of by a caregiver they believe has their best interests in mind.

The most common reasons nursing home patients become victims of financial abuse are:

  • They’re embarrassed or ashamed to report what happened
  • They have a cognitive illness, such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia
  • Their advanced age means they’re likely to pass away before they can take legal action against their abuser
  • They have a lack of knowledge about how to handle money, personal property, and assets
  • They’re isolated from friends and family members
  • They’re unfamiliar with technological advances, such as online banking and other online services
  • Their mental or physical disability prevents them from stopping or avoiding incidents of exploitation

It is upsetting and overwhelming to think anyone would take advantage of an older or disabled adult living in a nursing home. You want to help your loved one get through this traumatic experience but might not know how. The first step you should take is to contact an experienced nursing home financial abuse lawyer from Peck Ritchey, LLC. We can investigate the incident and help your loved one seek compensation for their losses.

Financial Abuse Warning Signs

Financial abuse is much different than physical abuse. There typically aren’t any physical injuries or noticeable warning signs. It doesn’t even cause emotional problems most of the time because the victim doesn’t realize what occurred.

Knowing what to watch out for is critical in situations like this. The most common warning signs that could indicate financial abuse are:

  • A lack of adequate care despite paying all nursing home expenses on time and in full
  • ATM withdrawals your loved one didn’t make
  • Missing personal property, cash, and other belongings
  • Unpaid bills
  • Canceled checks, bank statements, and other financial documents mailed to unknown addresses
  • Nursing home staff showing unusual interest in your relative’s finances
  • Transfers or withdrawals going through without the account holder’s approval
  • The lack of documentation showing new financial decisions or arrangements

Peck Ritchey, LLC has the experience and knowledge to take on the complexities of a case like this and advocate for your loved one’s rights. Nursing home residents often lack the ability to speak for themselves or stand up against their abusers. It’s vital that you’re able to do that for them.

Once you hire us, we can exhaust all resources to locate the necessary evidence to prove what happened. We won’t give up until we reach a positive outcome in the case.

Pursuing Compensation in a Financial Abuse Case

More than one party could be held liable for financial abuse. Even if you discover that one particular staff member committed the acts, the nursing home could also be at fault for hiring someone who has a criminal record or lacks experience caring for older adults. You must determine who’s responsible for exploiting your loved one so you can pursue the compensation necessary to get their finances back in order.

You should take immediate legal action if you notice any warning signs that financial abuse took place. Don’t confront anyone at the facility or notify them of your suspicions. Nursing homes typically hire experienced defense attorneys that can begin building a case if they know you’re planning to seek compensation.

The first thing you should do is ensure your loved one’s safety. Transfer them to another facility or hospital for treatment. If they require ongoing care, they will need a qualified doctor to treat their illness or a caregiver to assist them with routine tasks, such as grooming and dressing.

Sometimes, the effects of financial exploitation are emotional or psychological. The victim might require counseling or therapy to cope with what they’ve been through. Getting them the help they need while you’re preparing a legal case is essential.

You should also hire a nursing home financial abuse lawyer from Peck Ritchey, LLC as soon as possible. While you’re attending to your relative, we can focus on the legal aspects of the case. We’ll open a complete investigation into the incident and begin gathering evidence to prove someone exploited their patient.

Make sure you freeze all bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial activity so your loved one’s abuser can’t continue stealing from them. While you’re reviewing all the suspicious activity, print out statements or write detailed notes to give to us. This evidence could help your case.

Common Risk Factors of Financial Abuse

Some people are at greater risk of becoming the victim of financial exploitation. Nursing home residents are particularly susceptible because many don’t see their family regularly or have an illness that affects their mental abilities. It’s hard to protect them from abuse when you’re not around enough to look for the warning signs.

However, there are risk factors that could increase the likelihood of financial exploitation. As long as you’re aware of these, you might be able to monitor your loved one’s finances and avoid potential problems down the road.

Apparent wealth – Some nursing home residents are wealthy, and staff members become aware of this pretty quickly. Designer clothing, expensive jewelry, and other valuables are easy to notice. Residents can become targets when their family moves them into the facility. A nurse might see evidence of wealth and think they’re in for a large payout if they can gain the patient’s trust and acquire access to their accounts.

Mental illness – Mental illness can make it challenging for someone to defend themselves. They might feel ashamed that they’ve become the victim of financial abuse and don’t want to come forward with any complaints. Someone with symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions might fear that no one will believe them if they speak up about the incident.

Lack of familiarity with technology – Many older adults don’t know how to use the computer. They might trust a nurse or administrative employee to access their accounts for them online. Unfortunately, that makes financial exploitation more likely since they probably won’t notice money transfers or cash withdrawals.

Cognitive impairment – Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other cognitive illnesses can impair a person’s memory. If the resident doesn’t remember what happened, they can’t inform you or someone else at the nursing home about any financial misbehavior. It’s easier for the perpetrator to withdraw cash or steal personal items and get away with it.

Physical disability – Immobile patients may be unable to notify management about their suspicions. Their caregiver might confine them to their room or refuse to walk them around the property.

Isolation – Residents who never have visitors don’t have people to advocate for them in their time of need. They can’t turn to anyone for help, making them more susceptible to various types of abuse.

Contact Us

The nursing home financial abuse lawyers of Peck Ritchey, LLC believe anyone who takes advantage of elderly residents should be held accountable. They betrayed you and your loved one’s trust and should face the consequences of their actions. You will have a dedicated team in your corner to fight for justice.

If you suspect your loved one has become the victim of financial abuse, do not hesitate to contact us at (855) 328-5787 for a free consultation.


Testimonials

Attorney Kyle Fahey handled our matter with skill and professionalism, and was always responsive. 10/10, would work with him and the firm again.

–Jon T.

The peace of mind that Peck Ricthey’s office has given me is worth every penny. The services they provided me and my family in an emergency medical situation is beyond outstanding. Last minute notice, Peter Brady and team were compassionate, understanding and most importantly efficient and got the job done. Look no further if you have any needs that this office can provide for you. Definitely in good hands! Thank you, a thousand times over for all of your help.

–Christine K.

Very responsive and knowledgeable at handling our brother’s estate. Would definitely recommend!

–Ralph C.

I solicited Peck Ritchey, LLC for assistance with a living trust for which I became the beneficiary. I needed assistance with understanding the details of how it all worked. However, I was especially concerned because there were threats of allegations made by family members and a lawsuit was filed against me. I needed a solid professional who had my best interests in mind. Peter Brady took my case and he managed it flawlessly. He explained everything in a way I could understand, he knew the law inside and out, he was always available to answer questions, and even offer support when things seemed like they could become extremely problematic. In addition to this, he had a plan. He navigated the course as if he already knew the next move by the opposing attorney. He made me feel like everything was in control and that’s because he knew exactly what he was doing and he consulted with me about everything. We ended up settling out of court and ultimately the court officially dismissed the lawsuit. I honestly believe if it wasn’t for Peter and his expertise this could have gone in an entirely different direction. Peter did a stellar job and I couldn’t be more pleased and impressed with his performance.

–John T.

Tim Ritchey is as smart, honest, and genuine as they come. He truly puts helping people above making money. If you have a need, don’t hesitate to hire him.

–Jay T.

Due to the nature of our case, the law firm Peck Ritchey was recommended to us by another probate attorney for our Will contest. Kerry Peck and Kyle Fahey were very upfront and honest with us with respect to the potential outcome and the costs associated with their representation and any litigation. Although the chance of prevailing was minimal, a decision to move forward with their representation was made. They developed and executed upon a strategy that addressed our wishes for the best possible outcome and they delivered! We could not be happier. Both attorneys are extremely good listeners and communicators. Further, the team supporting them has been very accommodating to our needs. We would highly recommend this firm.

–Sandy K.

Tim and his staff was very helpful with my estate planning. I appreciated his thorough nature. I would recommend Peck Ritchey to others looking for estate planning.

–M.S.

My experience was flawless and very professional. Would highly recommend.

–-N.S.

I worked with Jesse Footlik and he was great! He was so easy to work with, explained our options clearly, and had true heart for the matter. I could tell he cares about the people he works with, and searches for solutions that will fit best with their circumstances.

–L.K.

Tim and his team exude professionalism, timeliness, and have a unique dedication to client needs. It is a pleasure working with them. For estate planning, succession planning, or just a general factfinding conversation about what they may be able to do for you, there is no one better in the area.

–S.H.

Kerry Peck with Kyle Fahey did outstanding work helping settle a difficult, complicated, contentious and sensitive personal matter. They were available by phone, email and text at all times during the day, night and weekend to quickly resolve the matter with the best outcome possible for their client. Thank you!

–S.S.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about this firm. The professionalism, knowledge, skills, attention to details, and constant updates were above my expectations. And the bonus was having a better outcome than I could have imagined. Jesse & Nick managed an emotional and difficult situation with care and respect. They are a top-notch team with excellent customer service and have very fair and reasonable prices. I would not hesitate to use this firm for any of your needs.

–Debbie M.

Peck Ritchey did an excellent job of resolving a very difficult estate matter.

–Scott S., Barrington Hills, IL

Thank you so much for your consistent attention to our case this past year. We were fairly small potatoes, yet you actually ‘got back’ and stayed on it. There were times when the government seemed to drop the ball more than my little league outfield, but my attorney was there. I realize that you actually went beyond the scope; I truly do appreciate your work.

–Kirt G., Chicago, IL

My family is so grateful for the positive outcome in my mother’s guardianship trial that had divided our family. Tim Ritchey and the Peck Ritchey team were very professional and thorough in stepping up in an emergency situation and preparing for trial. Peck Ritchey provided us with the peace of mind that my mother will be cared for throughout the rest of her life.

–Kevin G. Chicago, IL

Peck Ritchey both represents us defending our funding decisions, but also represents the best in leadership and support for issues that can change the quality of life of older persons. We are grateful that we are represented by a group of thoughtful and skilled experts on the law, and great colleagues in making the law work for our older clientele.

–Jon L., Oak Park, IL

I was Legal Guardian and Executor for mother who had passed away 12 years ago. There were two wills. One my mom wrote and another an aunt forced her to change while she had dementia. My former attorney advised me to pay the surety bond for all these years. He lost the original will and the file and closed down his office. My brother who was on SSI was still living in my mother’s apartment, and the estate was left to my mother’s four children. One sister wanted us to buy her out. She was impossible. Peck Ritchey worked with sister’s attorney, helped my brother and closed the estate with all its complications in a few months. We were all concerned that this would turn into a legal mess but they were true professionals, kind, caring and answered all our questions. This the law firm you want on your side. I highly recommend them regarding estates, legal guardianships and drawing up wills.

–Ellie W., Chicago, IL
Accolades to Peck Ritchey (in particular, Ron Webb), for handling our estate issues professionally and expediently. We connected after attending a very informative presentation on estate planning, offered to retired educators. Everything was explained thoroughly, encouraging us to seek Ron Webb’s assistance and expertise. Thank you for a valuable experience and for giving us peace of mind for the future.
–Myrna B., Palos Heights, IL

Peck Ritchey was there with great advice when my family most needed it the most. They got my daughter’s guardianship done on time, and referred us to an expert social worker so we could get her cases through the complicated government systems. The social worker found that the trust put together by others were not in order. Peck Ritchey made new trust documents or amended existing trusts as needed and improved other existing documents. What I appreciate most is they explained it in plain English so I could understand what had to be and what has been done. I am grateful for everything they did and how they did it!

–Victor O., Chicago, IL

Very professional handling of my mother’s estate. Ron was there every step of the way and so were his paralegals I might add – from coming to Rush University when my mom was too sick to come to the office, and taking my phone calls, and always answering my questions, I can’t thank him enough! I am truly grateful for the wonderful experience with Peck Ritchey especially since it is already stressful enough when a loved one is ill. Thank you so much! We will be using your firm for our own estate planning in the very near future, I would definitely recommend Peck Ritchey.

–Brenda S., Crystal Lake, IL

Peck Ritchey’s guidance in planning my affairs was practical and easy to understand. They drafted a plan for me that was complete and would grow with me as my future needs develop. I feel confident that our planning would handle any situation that could arise and that if an unforeseen event would occur, Peck Ritchey would be accessible to swiftly handle any additional work.

–Mike T., Highland Park, IL

Thank you so much for all of your work and time you spent in facilitating the purchase of our first home. I know we provided you with a short deadline and we appreciate both of you making it happen. The Escrow Officer commented on how seamless everything was for our close. We are extremely grateful for all of your effort. Thank you again!

–Steve T and Anna C

Kerry Peck and Jesse Footlik represented me in an extremely complex and litigious trust dispute involving numerous parties. After several years of litigation, the case was settled with a very successful outcome.

Kerry and his team of diligent attorneys help develop creative and detailed strategies that proved to be an excellent solution and produced the results I was hoping to achieve. During the duration of the lawsuit, communication with the attorneys was timely and thorough. Their passion and attention to detail was genuine and unwavering during the entire ordeal. I was very fortunate to have the Peck Ritchey team for representation and it was a great experience working with them. Knowing that the stakes were extremely high in the trust dispute Peck Ritchey, LLC was the right firm to handle a litigious case of this magnitude.

–Harvey C, Chicago

I wanted to express my gratitude to you and your firm’s generosity for providing pro bono legal counsel for a client of mine. Brandon Peck and Kyle Fahey both provided excellent legal representation to an older client who did not have the financial resources for retaining private legal representation and could not obtain any pro bono legal representation from any agencies that support victims of domestic violence. Your firms generosity and willingness to assist a client in need is greatly appreciated. The outcome was what my client hope for and knowing that she will remain safe in her home was the best result. Thank you for the support and services your firm provided to the Adult Protective Service program at North Shore Senior Center.

–Holly Lichtman, LCSWProgram Supervisor, Adult Protective Services

If you want a great experience with your estate planning needs, then you owe it to yourself to visit with Ron Webb at Peck Ritchey.

He explained all the intricacies of optimizing our estate planning needs in a knowledgeable and very friendly manner. It was truly a pleasure working with him and the staff at Peck Ritchey. We highly recommend their services.

–Larry and Judy F., Crystal Lake, IL

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Kerry Peck and Jesse Footlik for the professional and courteous manner in which Peck Richtey have assisted us during the past couple years. You will never know how much it meant to us.

–Kathy S from Champaign

I was referred to Peck Ritchey by a former judge after he heard the problems I was having in my case with my first attorney. Kerry Peck and Tim Ritchey are experienced and professional litigators who helped turn my case around for me. I wish I would have gone to them first. They helped me in a contested will and trust matter and were exceptional. I would recommend them highly for any estate, will, or trust matter!

–J.F., Chicago

We were extremely impressed with Peck Ritchey’s representation of us in complex litigation involving contested deeds, powers of attorney, and hundreds of acres of family farmland. Kerry Peck and Jesse Footlik were steadfast in their commitment to winning our case, which ultimately resulted in a tremendous settlement for us. Although our case was located in “downstate” Illinois, Kerry and Jesse’s timely and thorough communication made us feel like their office was right next door. We could not be more pleased with their services and the outcome of our case.

–K.S and K.S., Edgar County, IL

When my Mom passed, I discovered that a family member had changed Mom’s will after she had dementia. For almost two years, I worked closely with Tim Ritchey and Kyle Fahey. They presented such a compelling case and clearly had no fear of taking it to trial, that the opposing counsel caved on the day of trial. With his outstanding negotiating skills, Tim was able to balance just the right amount of pressure, patience, and professionalism to give us a substantial advantage at the settlement table. In addition to the huge settlement we won, I am so grateful to Kyle and Tim for their thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated approach to such a sad family conflict.

–S.W.

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