Financial Abuse Claims

Solicitors for Financial Abuse, Fraud, or Exploitation of a Vulnerable Person


When someone is placed in a position of trust to manage another person’s finances, that role comes with strict legal duties. Sadly, financial abuse, whether deliberate or through ignorance of the law, remains an increasing concern, particularly for the elderly or those who lack mental capacity. It can involve stolen funds, improper gifts, or misuse of a Power of Attorney.

At Lupton Fawcett, we understand how distressing and isolating these situations can be. Whether you are worried about a vulnerable loved one, seeking answers about missing assets, or have concerns over the actions of an attorney or deputy, our expert solicitors are here to support you. We offer calm, practical guidance and a robust legal strategy to protect your interests and restore what may have been lost.

If you suspect financial abuse or are facing accusations yourself, it’s important to act quickly. Call us today or complete the enquiry form below to speak in confidence with one of our specialists.

Why choose Lupton Fawcett?


At Lupton Fawcett, our specialist team has decades of experience in handling complex financial abuse claims involving vulnerable individuals. Recognised across Yorkshire and nationwide for our expertise in estate, trust and inheritance disputes, we are frequently instructed in cases requiring urgent intervention, asset recovery, or representation in the Court of Protection or High Court.

Our team is led by Sam Hirst and Kate Saunders, two of the region’s most respected contentious probate lawyers. Sam, a full member of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Solicitors (ACTAPS), is known for his strategic insight and practical, sensitive handling of contentious estate matters. Kate brings a wealth of experience in attorney and deputyship disputes, particularly those involving high-value estates or deteriorating family relationships. From our offices in Leeds, Sheffield and York, we represent clients throughout England and Wales. Whether you need emergency legal action or long-term support, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you resolve the matter with care, efficiency and strength.

Common Types of Financial Abuse


Financial abuse can take many forms, but what they all have in common is the misuse of someone’s money or property, often by a person in a position of trust. These situations frequently arise where the individual is elderly, mentally incapacitated, or otherwise reliant on others for support. The abuse may occur during the person’s lifetime or only become apparent after their death, often uncovered when reviewing their estate.

Examples of financial abuse we regularly advise on include:

Court of Protection Disputes

We regularly act in cases involving disputed deputyship applications, objections to Lasting Powers of Attorney, and challenges to decisions made by those entrusted to act. Whether you’re concerned about capacity, financial mismanagement, or believe someone is acting against a loved one’s best interests, we can help you bring or respond to an application in the Court of Protection.

Challenging Lifetime Gifts

Large or unusual gifts made by a vulnerable person, such as transferring a house or large cash sums, can raise serious concerns. Where gifts are made under pressure, without full understanding, or without legal capacity, they may be challenged and potentially reversed.

Unexplained Changes to Wills or Finances

Sudden changes to a Will or the reorganisation of financial assets may be a sign of undue influence or coercion, especially if done shortly before death or in circumstances where the individual lacked capacity.

Fraud and Theft

This includes situations where money or property is taken outright, bank cards used without consent, or accounts drained under false pretences. These matters often require urgent legal intervention and asset tracing.

Predatory Relationships or Marriages

Vulnerable adults can be targeted for their wealth. We handle claims involving coerced marriages, inappropriate romantic relationships, and suspicious financial transactions during a time of dependency or isolation. If you are concerned about any of these scenarios, or something simply doesn’t feel right, we can help assess the situation and advise on the best course of action. Many cases involve subtle forms of influence or exploitation that only emerge through proper investigation.

How We Can Help With Financial Abuse Claims


At Lupton Fawcett, we provide clear, proactive legal advice and representation to help individuals and families affected by financial abuse recover what has been lost and secure justice. We also support attorneys and deputies accused of financial wrongdoing, ensuring that any claims are fairly and thoroughly addressed.

We are regularly instructed in complex, sensitive cases involving:

Claims during lifetime

Where abuse is suspected and the vulnerable person is still alive, we can investigate, seek protective orders, and apply to the Court of Protection to remove or replace attorneys or deputies. In urgent cases, we can apply for freezing orders to prevent the dissipation of assets.

Post-death investigations

If concerns arise after someone’s death, we work with executors and beneficiaries to investigate transactions, trace missing assets, and challenge improper gifts or Will changes. Our team has the litigation expertise to bring proceedings in the High Court where necessary.

Undoing lifetime transactions

Using legal remedies such as undue influence, lack of capacity, or breach of fiduciary duty, we pursue claims to reverse gifts or recover misused funds. Where successful, these assets are returned to the estate or the rightful beneficiary.

Capacity assessments and expert evidence

Working alongside experienced medical professionals and forensic accountants, we help build robust cases involving mental capacity, financial mismanagement, and breach of trust.

Supporting professionals and family members

Whether you are a concerned relative, a solicitor appointed as attorney, or a deputy under scrutiny, we provide expert advice on your legal position, duties, and rights.

Our team understands the emotional toll financial abuse takes on families. That’s why we provide not only strategic legal support but also empathetic, confidential guidance at every stage. We tailor our advice to your circumstances and aim to resolve matters swiftly and constructively where possible, but are fully prepared to litigate where needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Financial Abuse Claims

Common claimable abuses include unauthorised withdrawals or transfers, misuse of a Power of Attorney, coercive gifting, theft, or improper spending of funds by deputies, attorneys, or trusted individuals. Even if a transaction appears voluntary on paper, it may still be challenged if there was undue influence, lack of capacity, or a breach of fiduciary duty.

Can I bring a claim if the victim of financial abuse has passed away?

Yes. If concerns arise after a person’s death, particularly where assets appear missing or depleted, those administering the estate, or beneficiaries, may be able to bring a claim. Our solicitors can assist in investigating transactions and, where appropriate, take legal steps to recover assets for the estate.

What are the signs that someone may be experiencing financial abuse?

Common indicators include sudden or unexplained changes to financial arrangements, missing valuables, unpaid bills despite sufficient means, unexpected changes to a Will, or a person becoming unusually isolated from friends and family.

Is there a time limit for bringing a financial abuse claim?

While there is no single rule, most claims must be brought within six years of the abuse, or within a shorter period if property or probate proceedings are involved. In some circumstances, especially where fraud is involved or the abuse only came to light recently, courts may allow additional time. It is always best to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

What powers does the Court of Protection have in financial abuse cases?

The Court of Protection can remove or replace attorneys and deputies suspected of financial abuse, appoint independent professionals, and authorise investigations. In some cases, we may also seek emergency injunctions to freeze assets and prevent further loss.

What evidence is needed to prove financial abuse?

Useful evidence includes bank statements, financial records, correspondence, witness accounts, and documents showing suspicious transactions or pressure tactics. We can also help obtain expert capacity assessments, forensic accountancy reports, and information from third parties such as financial institutions or care providers to support your case.

What can I do if I suspect financial abuse but don’t have all the evidence?

If you have concerns but lack full information, it is still important to seek legal advice. Our solicitors can help you gather evidence, work with the Office of the Public Guardian, and if necessary, apply to court for access to financial records and other remedies.

Contact our Financial Abuse Solicitors Today


If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be the victim of financial abuse, or if you have questions about suspicious transactions or misuse of authority, we are here to help. Speaking to a specialist solicitor at an early stage can make all the difference in preserving assets and protecting vulnerable individuals.

At Lupton Fawcett, our experienced Financial Abuse Solicitors are trusted by families and professionals across Yorkshire and beyond. Whether the abuse took place under a Power of Attorney, Deputyship, or through informal arrangements, we will provide you with clear, practical advice and strong representation to help you put things right.

We are based in Leeds, Sheffield, and York and regularly act for clients across the region and throughout England and Wales. We also advise families for Financial Abuse Claims in Bradford, Harrogate, Doncaster, and Wakefield with a strong record in handling complex and high-value financial abuse claims. To arrange a confidential consultation, call us, email us, or complete the enquiry form below. We will respond promptly and are ready to assist.

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Lupton Fawcett go to great lengths to explain the legal framework surrounding the issue in question, including the pitfalls, and then work with you to agree a strategy to achieve a satisfactory outcome.”

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