Financial Elder Abuse
What do you do when something just doesn’t feel right?
Maybe your dad in Carlsbad suddenly gave his caregiver control over his bank account. Maybe your aunt in Del Mar changed her trust last year - and left everything to someone who barely knew her. Or maybe you’re helping your mom in Encinitas pay her bills and realizing that thousands of dollars have gone missing, but no one can explain where it went.
It’s hard to know when to step in. You might be worried about starting a fight. You might feel unsure about whether what you’re seeing is truly “abuse.” But if you're asking these questions, you’re not alone—and you're right to trust your instincts.
At Peck Firm PC, we help families take action when a loved one is being financially exploited. We handle elder financial abuse cases across San Diego and Southern California with a calm, strategic approach that puts dignity and protection first.
Whether you need help stopping ongoing harm, reversing a suspicious transaction, or making sense of what’s already happened, we’re here to help you protect the people who once protected you.
Understanding Financial Elder Abuse in California
Financial elder abuse happens when someone takes advantage of an older adult - often quietly, gradually, and under the appearance of “helping.” California law defines it broadly and gives families legal tools to stop the harm and recover misused assets. This kind of abuse often involves:
- A caregiver or relative gaining access to bank accounts or property
- Someone influencing an elder to change their will or trust
- A trustee withholding funds, cutting off communication, or avoiding questions
- A person misusing power of attorney for their own benefit
- Property transfers, large gifts, or loans the elder didn’t understand
For example, your uncle in Chula Vista may have added a neighbor to his bank account, and now you're noticing unusual withdrawals. Or your cousin in La Jolla might have convinced your grandmother to change her estate plan - just months before her passing.
These situations often start with subtle shifts in control. By the time the family notices, real harm may already be done.
Common Signs to Watch For
If you’re concerned but not sure whether legal action is necessary, here are some signs that financial elder abuse may be taking place:
- Sudden changes to estate plans, trusts, or beneficiary designations
- Large withdrawals or account transfers that don’t make sense
- Missing checks, valuables, or unexplained credit card charges
- A new person limiting access to your loved one or isolating them
- Confusion about money or unpaid bills despite available resources
- An elder expressing worry - but not wanting to “cause trouble”
Trust your gut. Even if you’re unsure, a conversation with a lawyer can help you understand what to look for—and what to do next.
How We Help Families Respond to Elder Financial Abuse
At Peck Firm PC, we represent family members, beneficiaries, and others who are trying to protect a vulnerable elder or restore what’s been lost. We assist with:
- Recovering stolen or misused funds
- Challenging changes to wills or trusts made under suspicious circumstances
- Filing petitions to remove abusive trustees or fiduciaries
- Coordinating with the court and other professionals to protect your loved one
- Advising concerned relatives on their legal rights and responsibilities
Not every case requires a lawsuit. Sometimes it starts with asking the right questions. Sometimes it means stepping in before the damage gets worse. We’ll help you take action that’s thoughtful, respectful, and rooted in law.
What You Can Expect Working with Peck Firm PC
Every matter is handled personally by attorney Robert Peck. That means your concerns are heard, your questions are answered, and your case is guided by someone who understands both the legal system and the personal weight these issues carry. Clients choose us because we:
- Prioritize thoughtful solutions, not unnecessary conflict
- Take on a limited number of cases to give each one the time it deserves
- Communicate clearly and consistently
- Build strategies that are realistic, respectful, and results-focused
Helping Families Across Southern California Take the Right Next Step
We’re based in San Diego and work with families throughout the region—Carlsbad, Encinitas, La Jolla, Del Mar, Chula Vista, and beyond. Many of our clients live out of town or out of state but are trying to protect a parent or loved one in California.
If you’ve noticed changes, feel like something’s off, or just want to talk through what’s happening, we’re here to help.
Talk to a San Diego Elder Financial Abuse Lawyer Who Listens First, Then Acts
Taking action to protect a loved one isn’t easy. But you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help you understand what’s going on, what your options are, and what a strong, respectful response might look like.