practice areas

Many people help their loved ones work through estate planning hurdles, which is especially important for those who have a hard time dealing with these matters on their own. For example, an older parent who is struggling with a health condition often appreciates the support from their children.

Unfortunately, this leads to problems down the road, in some instances. For example, some people are falsely accused of undue influence.

Identifying undue influence

Undue influence takes various forms, whether someone is coerced into making decisions that benefit another individual unfairly or someone was struggling with a mental condition that prevented them from making the right call. For example, some beneficiaries claim that another individual stepped in and took advantage of a loved one while they were in a vulnerable state of mind. Unfortunately, these allegations are not always valid and other challenges, such as long-term sibling rivalries, often give rise to false accusations of undue influence.

Addressing the claims

If you suspect that a loved one was taken advantage of, it is imperative to review the details surrounding the situation and figure out the best course of action. On the other hand, if you are accused of undue influence even though these allegations are baseless, you need to firmly defend yourself. We understand that emotions run high when these disputes arise, but it is pivotal for people to stay focused and go over their legal options. The outcome of this case will likely have a major impact on your loved one’s entire family from a financial and emotional viewpoint. Our website discusses this topic in greater detail.