Priscilla Presley’s Elder Abuse Case: A Wake-Up Call for Honolulu Families
- Keoni
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 14
Elder Abuse Can Happen to Anyone — Even Celebrities
June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, and a recent legal battle involving Priscilla Presley serves as a powerful reminder of how vulnerable even the most well-known individuals can be to financial exploitation. At 79, Presley is accusing a former business associate of defrauding her of over $1 million — despite having access to advisors, legal counsel, and financial resources.
If elder abuse can reach the likes of Priscilla Presley, it can certainly touch the lives of families here in Honolulu and across Hawaiʻi. That’s why understanding how these manipulations unfold — and how proper estate planning can help prevent them — is so critically important.
How Financial Elder Abuse Typically Happens
While Presley’s lawsuit is still being decided, the alleged facts follow a disturbingly common pattern seen in many elder financial abuse cases, including right here in Hawaiʻi.
1. Gaining Trust
Often, abusers begin by positioning themselves as trusted confidants. In Presley’s case, her former business partner allegedly gained her trust by providing care, support, and friendship. This emotional bond allows the abuser to quietly influence decisions over time.
2. Isolating the Victim
Once trust is established, the next step is often isolation. The abuser may discourage the victim from speaking with long-time friends, advisors, or family members — those who might recognize troubling behavior. Presley claims she was urged to distrust her closest advisors, leaving her increasingly dependent on the very person who would later betray her.
3. Gaining Legal Authority
The final phase is the most dangerous — obtaining legal control. In Presley’s case, she was allegedly manipulated into signing powers of attorney and other documents that allowed her abuser to access and control her finances.
Unfortunately, this same pattern plays out for many local families in Hawaiʻi — sometimes quietly, without public headlines or media attention, but with equally devastating consequences.
The Devastating Impact on Hawaiʻi Families
Financial elder abuse doesn’t just strip away assets — it can tear families apart and leave lasting emotional scars. Consider these sobering realities:
Financial Ruin: Between 2022 and 2023, banks nationwide flagged nearly $27 billion in suspicious elder exploitation. Here in Hawaiʻi, losing a lifetime of savings could mean losing a family home, retirement nest egg, or funds intended for long-term care.
Emotional Trauma: Victims often feel ashamed or embarrassed, making them reluctant to seek help.
Family Conflict: Suspicion and mistrust can fracture families, with siblings and relatives blaming each other — while the true abuser continues unchecked.
Why Traditional Estate Planning Often Falls Short
Many people assume that once they've signed their estate planning documents, their job is done. But the reality is: documents alone are not enough to prevent elder abuse. Protecting yourself and your ʻohana requires more than a one-time transaction — it requires a proactive, ongoing relationship.
The Life & Legacy Planning Difference
At my Honolulu-based law practice, I take a more comprehensive approach known as Life & Legacy Planning — designed to truly safeguard you and your loved ones, not just your assets.
1. Clear Documentation with Family Involvement
We ensure your estate plan clearly identifies who should make decisions for you — and when. But just as importantly, we encourage open conversations with your loved ones so everyone understands the plan. This transparency makes it much harder for outsiders to interfere or manipulate.
2. Built-In Reviews to Catch Red Flags Early
Life changes — and so do relationships. That’s why we conduct regular reviews of your estate plan, so we can identify and address any concerning changes early on. Ongoing dialogue helps protect against potential predators.
3. A Long-Term Relationship with Your Lawyer
Unlike traditional estate planning, where you might never see your attorney again after signing documents, my clients have access to me on an ongoing basis. If something ever feels wrong, I’m here to guide and support both you and your family — providing an added layer of protection.
Take Action Now — While You’re Still in Control
The most effective plans are made while you're healthy, clear-minded, and surrounded by trusted people. Waiting until a crisis occurs makes it far more difficult to put safeguards in place.
Here’s how you can start protecting yourself and your family today:
Talk openly with your loved ones about your wishes and how you’d like them to help if something seems wrong.
Stay connected to your trusted advisors — your attorney, CPA, and financial planner form a team that can help spot unusual behavior.
Trust your instincts. If anyone tries to isolate you or shows unusual interest in your finances, don’t hesitate to speak up.
Secure Your Legacy and Protect Your ʻOhana
Priscilla Presley’s situation highlights a truth that applies to all of us — none of us are immune. But with thoughtful, proactive planning, you can safeguard your future and protect your loved ones from financial predators.
I help Hawaiʻi families create Life & Legacy Plans tailored to your unique needs — protecting not only your wealth but your dignity, your relationships, and your peace of mind.
Schedule a Family Wealth Planning Session today to start building the protection your ʻohana deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is financial elder abuse?
Financial elder abuse involves taking advantage of older adults for financial gain, often through manipulation, coercion, or deception.
Is elder abuse common in Hawaiʻi?
Yes. Sadly, financial elder abuse happens regularly across Hawaiʻi, often quietly and within families. That’s why proactive estate planning is so important for local families.
How does Life & Legacy Planning help prevent elder abuse?
Life & Legacy Planning includes regular reviews, family involvement, ongoing legal counsel, and clear legal documentation — all designed to reduce opportunities for manipulation and abuse.
When should I create or update my estate plan?
The best time to create or update your estate plan is now — while you are healthy and mentally capable of making your own decisions.
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This article is brought to you by the Law Office of Keoni Souza, a boutique estate planning firm located in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, proudly serving families on Oʻahu and across the Hawaiian Islands. At our firm, estate planning is about more than documents — it’s about creating lasting peace of mind for you and the people you love. Through our unique Life & Legacy Planning Process, we guide you to make informed, empowered decisions that protect your wealth, your wishes, and your family’s future. To get started, contact our Honolulu office today to schedule your Family Wealth Planning Session. Mention this article to learn how you can receive this $750 session at no charge.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult an estate planning attorney licensed in the State of Hawaiʻi. Use of this website or communication through this site does not create an attorney-client relationship with the Law Office of Keoni Souza, LLC.
