What a wonderful, professional Attorney my family and I found in Heidi Webb! For years, we put off creating a formal will and medical directives, but COVID-19 was the wake up we needed. I knew that we could no longer procrastinate. I searched around town and made a few phone calls and decided on Heidi’s firm. Everything went smoothly. In our first phone conversation, she shared valuable information about things that I never knew or considered. I really appreciated the advice. Her assistant, Molly was also very helpful. Heidi provided all the forms we needed to protect our family and property as well as our medical wishes. The process did not take long and was done via telephone, email, mail, and video conferencing. We could have gone into her office to complete the process, but we chose to use these methods due to COVID-19 restrictions. I am so thankful to Heidi and her team for their help getting things in order for our family. I consider her to be trustworthy and highly ethical. Based on our experience with Heidi and her team, I also consider her to be warm and welcoming with all varying types of people and cultures. Thanks again Heidi and Team!

~ Cecile B

Hello Heidi,

My name is Bill S. I am the youngest child of Tony and Ann S. We have never met, but from what I have seen and heard from my Dad, you have done some amazing things to help him. He has praised your efforts enormously to both me and my Brother Bob.

I wanted to reach out and send a quick note of appreciation for helping him through a very tough time. Although you may have not received much in the way of money for your work on this, (My Dad shared with me your bill), please know that you have made an enormous difference in our lives.

My Dad has been a “prisoner” in his house for a few years now, and the help that he has been able to get through your assistance, has been truly invaluable. I was down there last week and we had a few tough days. I am not sure what we have done without the assistance that you helped provide.

Thank you dearly for all you have done, you have truly been an angel for our family. God Bless You and your family!!!

~ Bill S.

Protecting Against Elder Financial Exploitation Through Estate Planning

Elder financial exploitation is an alarming and growing problem. This abuse can involve the illegal or unauthorized use of an older person’s funds, property, or assets. Fortunately, thoughtful estate planning can provide robust protection against this threat. Here’s how.

Durable Power of Attorney (POA)

A durable POA allows you to name a trusted individual to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. This document can limit the agent’s powers to specific transactions, adding a layer of protection against potential abuse.

Revocable Living Trusts

By placing assets in a revocable living trust, you can maintain control over them while providing clear guidelines if you need help managing them yourself. You can name a trusted successor trustee who is legally obligated to follow the guidelines you’ve laid out.

Regular Financial Reviews

Scheduling regular financial reviews with your attorney or financial advisor, ideally in the presence of a trusted family member, can provide an additional set of eyes to spot any irregularities.

Guardian Designations:

Guardianship designations can be a powerful tool to ensure that a court appoints someone you trust to manage your affairs.

Reporting Mechanisms

Include mechanisms for reporting suspected abuse to the proper authorities in your plan, providing a clear pathway to address concerns if they arise.

Working with a Reputable Estate Planning Attorney

A skilled estate planning attorney can craft an estate plan with the necessary safeguards tailored to your unique situation.

Protecting against elder financial exploitation is a complex but vital aspect of estate planning. By working closely with experienced professionals, you can create a plan that minimizes risks and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

If you’re in Florida and need assistance protecting your estate against potential exploitation, Heidi S. Webb, Attorney at Law, can help. Contact her today to discuss your needs.

Heidi S. Webb, Attorney at Law, serves clients in Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach, Port Orange, and beyond with matters of Estate Planning and Probate. Contact her today to schedule a free consultation. Visit her page on Facebook, or see what her clients are saying to learn more about Heidi.

Share this…