Suspecting or discovering financial abuse of an elderly person is always a serious matter, but it can be especially painful if the perpetrator is a family member.
If you suspect a family member is exploiting power of attorney for financial gain: ask for bank statements, gently remind them of the donor's wishes, inform the local authority and the Office of the Public Guardian, and consult a lawyer. The Court of Protection can remove an attorney and appoint a replacement. Attorneys must declare any gifting made in the seven years leading up to death. Beneficiary's share of the estate can be reduced to compensate the family.
