Identifying and Addressing Undue Influence in Elder Abuse Cases

Source: National Center on Law and Elder Rights

Published: 2022

Summary:

Financial exploitation has been identified as one of the most prevalent forms of elder abuse. Often, financial exploitation cases involve undue influence. Undue influence occurs when a third party uses their role and power to exploit someone and deceptively gain control over the decision making of that person. Undue influence can affect anyone, even those with decision-making capacity, but often it impacts people with cognitive impairments or those who are isolated.

In this training, participants will gain an understanding of:
1. What undue influence is and who may be most at risk;
2. Indicia or red-flags that might alert advocates to the existence of undue influence;
3. Action steps and options when undue influence may be present; and
4. Proactive measures that advocates can share with older adults to help them avoid undue influence.

Presenters:
• David Godfrey, J.D., ABA Commission on Law and Aging
• Sandra D. Glazier, Esq., Special Advisor to the ABA Commission on Law and Aging and Equity Shareholder of Lipson Neilson P.C.
• Andrea Marcin, Equal Justice Works Fellow – Elder Justice Program, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service