In New Jersey, Adult Protective Services (also known as APS) investigates abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of vulnerable adults.  Vulnerable adults include the elderly, mentally handicapped and others.   Adult Protective Services  works closely with police to investigate these claims.  On their own, APS can work to remove the adult from the home on a temporary basis until the matter proceeds to court.  This can be done regardless of police involvement.  However, the concern is that admissions made in the court case can lead to evidence that the police can use to prosecute for elder abuse, assault, theft or fraud.  

Likewise, the police can arrest and prosecute for elder abuse, assault, theft or fraud regardless of what APS does.  However, evidence gathered by APS including statements taken by the accused, will be key pieces of evidence in the prosecution of the case.

Thus, if you even think that you may be the target of an Adult Protective Services investigation, you should call a lawyer right away.  Anything you say or do can be used against you.  Call us anytime to discuss your case and see how we can help you.