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C
crepella Asked March 2014

Can I sue my siblings for failing to help financially or otherwise?

Does anyone know if I have any legal rights against my siblings for failing to help with taking care of their mother? I have to pay for things just to keep us afloat, and my siblings are both wealthy. Now that I've lost my job, I don't know how we are going to survive. My siblings are both rich. How can this be legal? Do I have any rights?

assandache7 Mar 2014
As usual countrymouse has given you excellent advise..

Countrymouse Mar 2014
Before you further enrich any lawyers, write to your siblings. Give them clear details of your mother's living expenses and care costs vs. her income and ask them for a reasonable contribution.

If that doesn't get you anywhere, at least you'll have tried. And at least you'll have the facts down in black and white, which will clarify matters when it comes to seeking professional advice.

You do have one important right, by the way, one which is already being cheerfully exercised by your scapegrace siblings. You have the right to decline to provide care for your mother. As food for thought, what would your mother's options be if you were not in the picture? If you don't know, you'd better find out, because she may need them.

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assandache7 Mar 2014
Have your Mom ask them herself for financial help...

lsmiami Mar 2014
I agree with Psteigman, if you are in a state with filial laws, particularly one with precedent......some of these are just archaic laws.......it would be interesting.
You would need a really good lawyer, and if they are wealthy, they can likely out lawyer you. Sorry, it is impractical for poor people to sue rich people, unless they can get a hot shot, top notch, pro bono lawyer.

Suing is the most adversarial path you could take and you are unlikely to succeed.

norestforweary Mar 2014
Have you asked the siblings for help? A lawsuit would estrange them.... Contact your local office on aging to see if there are any services you can utilize.

pamstegma Mar 2014
Wow very interesting question! Since Nursing Homes are suing under Filial Responsibility laws, I see no reason why a sibling could not do the same. I hope you find a lawyer who is willing to pursue this.

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