Introduction:

When it comes to the care and management of our aging parents, disagreements among siblings can often arise. One sibling may take control, limiting access to the parents and managing their finances and healthcare without the consent or input of the others. This can lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration. However, you are not without options. An attorney specializing in trust and estates litigation can provide invaluable assistance in such situations.

Understanding the Situation:

The first step an attorney will take is to thoroughly understand the situation. They will gather all relevant information, including any existing legal documents like wills, trusts, or powers of attorney. They will also assess the mental and physical health of the parents, as this can play a crucial role in determining the best course of action.

Legal Options:

• Mediation: In many cases, the best first step is to try and resolve the issue amicably. An attorney can facilitate a mediation process where all parties come together to discuss their concerns and try to reach a mutually agreeable solution. This can often prevent the need for more drastic legal measures.

• Guardianship Proceedings: If mediation fails or if there is evidence of financial mismanagement or abuse, the attorney can initiate a guardianship proceeding. This is a legal process where the court is asked to appoint a guardian to manage the affairs of the parents. The guardian could be another sibling, a neutral third party, or a professional guardian.

• Power of Attorney: If the parents are mentally competent, they can grant a Power of Attorney (POA) to another sibling. This would give the sibling the legal authority to manage the parents' finances and healthcare decisions. An attorney can help draft the POA and ensure it is properly executed.

• Trust Litigation: If there is a trust in place and the controlling sibling is the trustee, an attorney can initiate a trust litigation process. This could involve challenging the validity of the trust, the competency of the parents when the trust was created, or the actions of the trustee.

• Elder Law Litigation: If there is evidence of elder abuse, whether physical, emotional, or financial, an attorney can initiate an elder law litigation process. This could result in the removal of the abusive sibling from their position of control and the implementation of protective measures for the parents.

Conclusion:

Navigating these complex legal waters can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. An experienced trust and estates litigation attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring your parents' rights and interests are protected. Remember, the goal is to ensure the wellbeing and safety of your parents, and sometimes, legal intervention is the best way to achieve this.