Legacy Hunters Target Elderly Estates

A column by Hergott warns that some relatives or acquaintances act as “legacy hunters,” courting cognitively declining seniors to secure a larger share of their estate. Tactics include moving in under the pretense of care, then altering wills or adding themselves as joint owners so that the right of survivorship transfers property automatically.

The author outlines legal safeguards: any transaction made by a person lacking capacity can be reversed, a will must be signed by someone who fully understands and approves its contents, and undue influence can invalidate a will. Readers are advised to stay involved in their parents’ care and estate planning to prevent exploitation.