Financial Exploitation of an Elderly Person or a Person with a Disability Charges in Skokie, Illinois

Financial exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a disability is a serious criminal offense in Illinois, carrying severe legal consequences, including significant prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing charges of financial exploitation in Skokie, it is crucial to understand the nature of these charges, the potential penalties, and the importance of securing experienced legal representation to protect your rights and future.

What Constitutes Financial Exploitation of an Elderly Person or a Person with a Disability?

Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/17-56, financial exploitation occurs when an individual knowingly and by deception or intimidation, obtains control over the property or financial resources of an elderly person (60 years of age or older) or a person with a disability, with the intent to permanently deprive the person of the use, benefit, or possession of their property. Key elements of this offense include:

• Deception or intimidation: Using dishonest or coercive tactics to gain control of the victim’s financial resources.
• Elderly or disabled victim: The victim must be an elderly person (age 60 or older) or a person with a disability.
• Intent to defraud: The prosecution must prove that the individual intended to defraud the victim and deprive them of their financial assets.
• Unauthorized control: Taking control of the victim’s property, money, or other assets without their consent or under false pretenses.

Examples of financial exploitation include coercing an elderly person to sign over property, using a disabled person’s funds without their knowledge, or misusing power of attorney to benefit the perpetrator.

Penalties for Financial Exploitation in Skokie

The penalties for financial exploitation in Illinois are severe and depend on the value of the property or assets involved:

• Class A Misdemeanor: If the value of the property or assets is less than $300, the charge is typically a Class A misdemeanor, with potential penalties including up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,500.
• Class 4 Felony: If the value is between $300 and $10,000, the charge may be elevated to a Class 4 felony. Penalties include 1 to 3 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
• Class 3 Felony: If the value is between $10,000 and $100,000, the charge can be elevated to a Class 3 felony, carrying penalties of 2 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
• Class 2 Felony: If the value exceeds $100,000, the charge may be elevated to a Class 2 felony, with penalties including 3 to 7 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
• Permanent criminal record: A conviction for financial exploitation will result in a permanent criminal record, which can impact your ability to find employment, secure housing, and maintain personal and professional relationships.

Defending Against Financial Exploitation Charges in Skokie

Given the severe penalties associated with financial exploitation charges, a strong defense is essential. Some potential defense strategies include:

• Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove that you intended to defraud the victim. If there was no intent to deceive, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
• Consent or authorization: If the victim gave permission for you to manage their financial resources or make transactions on their behalf, this could serve as a defense.
• Mistaken identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person who committed the exploitation, presenting evidence of mistaken identity or an alibi can be crucial.
• Violation of rights: If your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest, such as through unlawful search and seizure or improper handling of evidence, it may be possible to suppress key evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Skokie Defense Attorney for Financial Exploitation Charges?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of Illinois law and a proven track record of defending clients against charges like financial exploitation of an elderly person or a person with a disability in Skokie and throughout Cook County. His background as a former prosecutor provides him with unique insights into the prosecution’s strategies, enabling him to build a strong and effective defense tailored to your case.

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for a free consultation today at (847) 350-1266 to discuss your case. With his dedication to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome, Andrew is the advocate you need in these challenging legal circumstances.