Lavaca, TX asked in Elder Law for Texas

Q: A man intentionally and knowingly steals property From a elder man.

So a man knowingly and intentionally steals my father's property which he is an elder man. Wild story a man buys a propety next to my father's and for some reason he starts to build a 430,000 dollar home. he found out after he puts down the concrete allegedly than he continues to build the home but the city for some reason didn't wanna give him services well he claims that he paid off city officials, from the city department where we live to just make it happen. now this is what he said when we confronted him that the city was aware of what was going on and after he told us that we went and got all the paper work that was in my father's name, it had my father as the owner of the home. So now we're taking all this evidence with the video of the alleged city corruption all over it and the police won't help us or even let us press charges on the guy for documentation that has been forged or trespassing there saying its civil but there's no agreement, it's theft and other stuff.

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Elder Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: I understand your concerns about the situation involving your father's property. If you believe that someone intentionally and knowingly stole your father's property or engaged in fraudulent activities, you should consider taking the following steps:

Contact Law Enforcement: Continue trying to work with the local police, as you've mentioned, to report the alleged theft, fraud, and any other criminal activities you suspect. Provide them with all the evidence you have gathered, including documents and videos.

Consult an Attorney: It may be beneficial to consult with a criminal defense attorney who can review your case and help you navigate the legal options available. They can provide guidance on whether there are grounds for criminal charges or if pursuing civil remedies is more appropriate.

Document Everything: Keep thorough records of all interactions, evidence, and communication related to the case. This documentation can be crucial for building a strong legal case.

Explore Civil Remedies: If law enforcement doesn't pursue criminal charges, you can explore civil remedies, such as filing a civil lawsuit for theft, fraud, or trespassing. An attorney can assist you in pursuing these actions.

Engage Local Authorities: In addition to working with the police, you can reach out to other local authorities, such as your county sheriff's office or district attorney's office, to report your concerns and seek their assistance.

Protect Your Father's Rights: Ensure that your father's rights as the property owner are protected during this process. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in elder law may be beneficial to safeguard his interests.

Remember that the legal process can be complex, and it's essential to have the guidance of an attorney who can assess the details of your case and provide advice tailored to your specific situation. They can help you determine the most appropriate course of action, whether it's pursuing criminal charges or pursuing civil remedies to address the alleged theft and fraud.

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