While every case is different, there are a few patterns that you should watch for. Especially as people get older and start losing testamentary capacity , they are a lot more vulnerable to the different forms of exploitation:
Abuse of power of attorney: Although power of attorney abuse is common, it can be difficult to prove in court. If you or your elderly loved one is worried that the attorney in fact under a power of attorney is abusing that authority, hire a fiduciary litigation lawyer with experience.
Undue influence: There is cause for concern when your elderly parent or loved one changes the provisions of the will, or adds someone to it suddenly. Sometimes another close family member or neighbor can become the primary caregiver of the elderly person, emotionally manipulating the situation to gain an inheritance in the will. Also, there are more directly violent coercive forms of undue influence.
Scam artists and common thieves: There are many scam artists and thieves who routinely target the elderly as victims. Often, after being victimized by a scam artist, an elderly parent will be embarrassed and not say anything. Pay attention to these behavioral changes and get the information so that you can help get the money back for your parent's or grandparent's estate.