Episode 32 : Elder Abuse and the Role of the Solicitor

In this episode of the Wills & Estates Transmission Podcast with de Groots, Tony Skinner speaks with Maree Harris about elder abuse and the important role solicitors can play in identifying warning signs, protecting vulnerable clients, and ensuring estate planning instructions are genuinely coming from the client.Elder abuse is a growing concern, especially as Australia’s population ages and more families deal with estate planning, powers of attorney, capacity and intergenerational wealth.Maree explains what elder abuse is, the different forms it can take, and why psychological, emotional and financial abuse are often the most common. She also discusses the importance of meeting elderly clients privately, taking instructions directly from the client, assessing capacity properly, and knowing when warning signs may require further action.If you suspect elder abuse, you can contact the NSW Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline on 1800 628 221.What elder abuse means under the World Health Organization definitionThe importance of a relationship of trustCommon forms of elder abuse, including emotional, psychological, financial, physical, sexual abuse and neglectWarning signs solicitors should look for when advising elderly clientsWhy solicitors should meet elderly clients alone when taking instructionsHow financial abuse can occur through bank accounts or powers of attorneyThe importance of checking whether an attorney has authority to make gifts or transfer fundsCapacity assessments and why capacity depends on the decision being madeThe risks of family members giving instructions on behalf of an older personWhy elderly people may be reluctant to speak upThe role of education around wills, powers of attorney and enduring guardianshipWhat to do if elder abuse is suspectedThe NSW Ageing and Disability Abuse HelplineNSW Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline1800 628 221