When to Consult Expert Witnesses in Geriatric Medicine or Forensic Accounting

Complex guardianship and inheritance disputes regularly occur in the world of estate litigation. When they do, expert witnesses can play a crucial role. Two particularly important types of experts in these cases are those in geriatric medicine and forensic accounting.

Used effectively with support from a Pompano Beach estate litigation lawyer, these professionals can be the key to achieving a desired outcome in disputes involving contested Wills, undue influence claims, or mismanagement of assets.

Clarity on Capacity and Influence

One of the most common points of contention in estate litigation is testamentary capacity, essentially whether a person was mentally competent at the time they signed a Will or Trust. A geriatric medicine expert can provide valuable insights into an elderly person’s cognitive function, mental health, and susceptibility to influence.

In Florida, courts take claims of undue influence seriously, particularly when there’s a substantial last-minute change in estate planning documents that benefits a new caregiver, relative, or acquaintance. A geriatric expert can testify about whether the individual had cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, that may have made them vulnerable to coercion. Their medical opinion can establish a timeline of decline that aligns (or conflicts) with the execution of a Will, Trust, or Power of Attorney.

 Uncovering Financial Misconduct

On the financial side of estate disputes, a forensic accountant can be indispensable. These professionals analyze financial records to identify signs of embezzlement, fraud, or mismanagement, often in connection with a Personal Representative, Trustee, or Guardian.

In cases involving guardianship disputes, for example, a forensic accountant can trace how funds were spent and determine whether there was improper use of an incapacitated person’s assets. If a trustee or executor is accused of mishandling estate funds, this type of expert can explain complex financial movements in a way the court can understand, providing hard evidence that supports claims of breach of fiduciary duty.

Forensic accountants can also be crucial when families question how an estate was diminished prior to death or how certain beneficiaries came into significant financial gain without explanation.

Florida estate litigation often comes down to what you can prove. Judges are not likely to overturn estate planning or remove fiduciaries without strong, credible evidence. This is where expert witnesses come in. Whether the issue is medical or financial, these professionals offer neutral, fact-based evaluations that can cut through emotional testimony and subjective claims.

If you’re involved in a Florida estate dispute, whether over undue influence, guardianship concerns, or questionable financial activity, connect with a Pompano Beach estate litigation lawyer who knows when and how to bring in expert witnesses. Doing so can make a significant difference in the resolution of your case.

Need guidance on your estate matter? Speak with the attorneys at Mark R. Manceri, P.A., professionals who understand the value of strategic expert testimony. Legal experts are available to help you make sense of Florida estate law, and assist you in taking action when necessary. When you are ready to fortify your position, schedule a confidential consultation.