Financial Exploitation of Elderly Person or Person with Disability

Charged with Financial Exploitation of an Elderly Person or Person with a Disability in Chicago? Andrew M. Weisberg Can Defend Your Rights

Financial exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a disability is a grave offense under Illinois law, carrying severe legal consequences. If you are facing charges of financial exploitation in Chicago, your freedom, reputation, and future are at stake. To protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome, you need an experienced and aggressive defense attorney like Andrew M. Weisberg on your side.

Understanding Financial Exploitation of an Elderly Person or Person with a Disability in Illinois

Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/17-56, financial exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a disability occurs when someone knowingly and illegally uses or manages the property, money, or assets of an elderly person (60 years or older) or a person with a disability. The law is designed to protect vulnerable individuals who may be unable to manage their financial affairs due to age, illness, or disability. Common forms of financial exploitation include:

• Unauthorized Use of Funds: Using an elderly person’s or disabled person’s money or assets without their consent, or beyond the authority granted by them.
• Coercion or Deception: Convincing or pressuring an elderly person or a person with a disability to give money, property, or control over assets through manipulation or deceit.
• Mismanagement of Assets: Failing to properly manage the funds or assets of an elderly person or person with a disability when given the authority to do so, often leading to significant financial loss for the victim.
• Forgery or Fraud: Creating false documents or altering existing documents to gain access to the victim’s assets, such as forging checks or changing wills or powers of attorney.

These acts are not only morally reprehensible but are also punishable by law, with penalties that reflect the serious nature of the offense.

Penalties for Financial Exploitation in Chicago

The penalties for financial exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a disability in Illinois vary depending on the amount of money or property involved and the severity of the offense. However, the consequences are always severe:

• Class 4 Felony: If the value of the assets or property involved is $300 or less, the offense is typically charged as a Class 4 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 3 years and fines of up to $25,000.
• Class 3 Felony: If the value of the assets or property exceeds $300 but is less than $5,000, the offense is elevated to a Class 3 felony, with a potential prison sentence of 2 to 5 years.
• Class 2 Felony: If the value of the assets or property is between $5,000 and $50,000, the offense is charged as a Class 2 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 3 to 7 years.
• Class 1 Felony: If the value of the assets or property exceeds $50,000, the offense is charged as a Class 1 felony, with a potential prison sentence of 4 to 15 years.
• Restitution: In addition to imprisonment and fines, the court may order you to pay restitution to the victim to compensate for any financial losses incurred due to the exploitation.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for financial exploitation will result in a permanent criminal record, which can severely impact your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities in the future.

Given these penalties, it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s case and work to protect your future.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Defense Attorney?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive experience handling complex and sensitive cases, including financial exploitation of elderly persons or persons with disabilities. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor gives him unique insights into how these cases are built and prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and develop a robust defense on your behalf.

When you choose Andrew as your defense attorney, you benefit from:

• Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Andrew’s thorough understanding of Illinois criminal law, particularly in cases involving financial crimes and exploitation, ensures that your case is handled with the utmost competence and care.
• Aggressive Defense Strategies: Andrew is known for his relentless and proactive defense tactics, ensuring that every possible angle is explored in your case.
• Personalized Attention: Andrew provides each client with individualized attention, offering clear communication and guidance throughout the legal process.

Defending Against Financial Exploitation Charges in Chicago

Successfully defending against charges of financial exploitation requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. Andrew M. Weisberg will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, scrutinizing every piece of evidence and questioning the validity of the prosecution’s claims. Some potential defense strategies may include:

• Lack of Intent: Financial exploitation charges require proof that you knowingly and intentionally misused the assets or property of an elderly person or person with a disability. If there is doubt about your intent, this could be a significant defense.
• Consent: If the elderly person or person with a disability knowingly and voluntarily gave you permission to use or manage their assets, Andrew will work to establish that no crime occurred.
• Misunderstanding: Financial arrangements can often be complex, and misunderstandings can arise. Andrew will work to clarify any misunderstandings and demonstrate that your actions were lawful.
• Violation of Constitutional Rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation, arrest, or interrogation—such as through unlawful search, seizure, or coercion—Andrew may be able to have key evidence suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Andrew will work tirelessly to build a strong defense, aiming to reduce the charges, negotiate a favorable plea, or secure an acquittal.

The Importance of Early Legal Intervention

If you have been charged with financial exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a disability, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Early intervention by a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Andrew M. Weisberg will take immediate action to protect your rights, gather evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.

Andrew M. Weisberg: Committed to Your Defense

Facing charges of financial exploitation can be overwhelming and stressful. Andrew M. Weisberg is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation throughout the entire process. He will keep you informed at every stage, answer all your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.

Contact the Law Offices of Andrew M. Weisberg Today

If you have been arrested or charged with financial exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a disability in Chicago, don’t delay in seeking legal representation. Andrew M. Weisberg is available 24/7 to discuss your case and provide the immediate assistance you need.

Contact Andrew today for a free, confidential consultation:

• Phone: Call (773) 908-9811 anytime, day or night.
• Online: Fill out the Case Review form on our website, and we will get back to you promptly.

Remember, the sooner you have an experienced attorney on your side, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let Andrew M. Weisberg put his expertise to work for you.