20 December 2018
Elder abuse – Looking out for clients in need
We have an elderly client and it has come to our attention that she may be subject to elder abuse by a neighbour. The neighbour has apparently been pressuring her to change her will and possibly putting pressure on her to do other things for him like drive him to the airport.
I am concerned she may have some early dementia symptoms or is under significant stress as she is coming across as having reduced capacity. Is it a breach of any professional obligations to contact her children? I don't know them and they live out of town. She doesn’t have a lot of family support around.
Thank you for the question.
Being a good friend, whether a lawyer or not, is always okay.
Regards
Mentor
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