I am an attorney who works in the field of elder law. I often get the question what asking what can an Elder Law Attorney do to help. Learn how an Elder Law attorney can help with legal issues related to the needs of the aging members of our population.
Attorneys working in the field of elder law bring more to their practice than an expertise in the appropriate area of law. We also have knowledge of the senior population and their unique needs as well as the myths related to competence and aging. Working in this field gives us a working awareness of the physical and mental difficulties that often accompany the aging process. Because of this broad knowledge base, I am better able to address the legal needs of their older clients.
When I am doing estate planning, I take into consideration the health of the person or couple, the potential for nursing home care and the wishes and concerns of the person or couple if that event were to occur. If need arises, I will associate other various types of experts to help with the planning.
Elder law covers all aspects of planning, counseling, education, and advocating for clients. I strive to be a resource to my clients. I realize the importance of understanding my clients needs and know these needs may extend beyond basic legal services. I am always participating in legal education training and staying informed about and connected to the local networks of professionals who serve the elder population.
Some of the with legal issues I deal with involve such varied issues as:
- Health and personal care planning, which include the following topics: powers of attorney and living wills; lifetime planning; family issues;
- Fiduciary (financial) representation; financial planning; housing opportunities and financing; income, estate, and gift tax matters;
- Planning for a well spouse when the other spouse requires long term care; Asset protection; public benefits such as Medicaid and insurance; Veterans benefits;
Capacity; guardianship and guardianship avoidance; - Resident rights in long term care facilities; nursing home claims;
- Employment and retirement matters; age or disability discrimination and grandparents’ rights.
- Will and trust planning; planning for minor or adult special needs children; probate;
- Elder law encompasses all aspects of planning for aging, illness, and incapacity. The specialization requires a practitioner to be particularly sensitive to the legal issues impacting elder clients.
If you or a family member have questions, concerns or need more information about legal issues related to the needs of the aging members of our population, call me. There is no charge for the initial consultation.
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