Family is everything. When a loved one’s decisions when creating a will are compromised, it can fracture the bonds that hold families together.
Undue influence can sneak in when someone leverages their position to sway another’s choices in their final will, typically for personal gain. Recognizing the signs is vital to protect those you care about.
Isolation from loved ones
One of the first red flags is when your family member starts to withdraw from social interactions. This isolation may be orchestrated by the influencer, who aims to cut off the person’s support network. If your loved one is suddenly unreachable or consistently missing family gatherings, take notice.
Changes in behavior or personality
An unusual shift in your loved one’s demeanor can be another sign. Perhaps they have become secretive, anxious or quick to anger. These changes may stem from the pressure exerted by the influencer, who manipulates emotions to gain control. Trust your instincts if you notice these shifts.
Dependence on the influencer
Watch for an unusual dependency on one individual. This can manifest in your loved one seeking constant approval or advice from the influencer. They might defer all decisions to this person, showing a loss of autonomy. Dependency is often a calculated influencer tactic to tighten their grip.
Sudden legal document changes
Lastly, unexpected alterations in wills, powers of attorney or other documents are significant indicators. If your relative revises their estate plan to heavily favor one person, especially in secrecy, it is worth investigating. These changes could be a result of undue influence aimed at financial gain.
If you believe someone has harmfully influenced your family member’s final decisions, you can make it right again through a successful will contest. Speak with a legal representative experienced in Washington estate matters.
