Inheritance theft can be defined in many ways. Simply put, it is the diversion of a testator's estate, including probate and non-probate assets, to the benefit of someone who utilizes overt threats, exerts undue influence or uses deception to subvert the natural will of the testator. Unfortunately, it is a rapidly growing problem in the United States as the baby boomers age and pass away.
The largest thefts in prior generations may have been accomplished with a gun. These days it may be a son or daughter simply telling their father suffering from dementia, "Daddy I need you to sign some papers." Those papers will typically include a Power of Attorney and a will.
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