Elder abuse, in short
Older people deserve to be safe and respected. If you or a family member has suffered financial abuse, neglect or mistreatment, we can help. United Legal is a Canberra firm based in Fyshwick. We work on a No Win, No Fee basis and your first conversation is free.
Elder Abuse: what you need to know
Elder abuse can be financial, physical, psychological or neglect. It is often committed by someone the older person trusts, such as a family member, carer or attorney under a power of attorney.
Financial abuse is one of the most common forms: money taken from bank accounts, property transferred, or wills and powers of attorney changed under pressure. Acting quickly can help recover what was lost.
Elder abuse we help with
- Misuse of a power of attorney
- Money taken from bank accounts
- Property transferred under pressure
- Neglect in aged care
- Physical or emotional abuse
- Wills changed under undue influence
Protecting older people from abuse
Elder abuse can be financial, physical, psychological or neglect, and it is often by someone the older person trusts: a family member, carer or aged care provider. Financial abuse, such as misuse of a power of attorney, is especially common.
We can help recover money, challenge decisions made under a power of attorney, and pursue claims against aged care providers who failed in their duty of care.
What you can claim
Depending on what happened, you may be able to claim compensation from the person responsible, or from an institution such as a care provider that failed to protect you. Compensation can cover harm and suffering, lost income, treatment costs and, where money was taken, the money lost.
Read more about institutional abuse claims.
Evidence that helps your claim
You do not need to have everything before you call us, but these records make a abuse claim stronger. Keep copies of anything you have:
- Anything you have written down about what happened
- Names, dates and places you remember
- Records from counsellors or doctors, if any
- Bank or financial records (for financial abuse)
- You do not need all of this to talk to us
How much could a elder abuse claim be worth?
Every claim is different. The amount depends on the type of claim, the harm you suffered, its effect on your life and work, and who was responsible. We give you an honest estimate once we understand your situation, and we prepare every claim to get its full value rather than settling early.
Why people choose United Legal
- Three lawyers on every case. Your claim is checked by more than one experienced lawyer, start to finish.
- A local Canberra firm since 2004. We know the ACT schemes, insurers, doctors and courts.
- No Win, No Fee. No upfront costs, and you get a written costs agreement before we start.
- Serious injury experience. Our results include a $20m+ settlement and a $1.4m workers compensation claim.
Watch
What to do now
- If someone is in danger, call 000.
- Write down what you know: dates, names, places and any money involved.
- Keep bank statements, care records and messages.
- Talk to us in confidence about your options.
Elder abuse: FAQs
I am worried about my parent but they do not want to make a fuss. What can I do?
Can money taken by a family member be recovered?
Can I act if I am worried about a relative in aged care?
What if the abuser holds a power of attorney?
How much does a abuse lawyer cost?
Is there a time limit?
Find out where you stand.
Free claim check · No Win, No Fee