Just as you rely on specialists for your finances or real estate, an elder law attorney provides crucial expertise in navigating the legal challenges that arise later in life. But what exactly does an elder law attorney do, and why should you invest in their services?
In short, elder law services help with many challenges that arise as you age, such as making decisions about your healthcare, planning for long-term care, managing your estate, and applying for benefits like Medicaid. These attorneys specialize in supporting older adults and their families to protect assets, ensure the right care, and handle any legal issues that may occur along the way.
Ways an Elder Law Attorney Can Help
Estate Planning
An elder law attorney can help you create wills, trusts, and other essential estate planning documents, so your assets are distributed as you intended. Having the proper documents in place can help you care for your loved ones and reduce stress and confusion for them in the future.
Long-Term Care Planning
As you age, you may find yourself needing additional support. An elder law attorney can guide you through the options, from in-home care to assisted living facilities, and help you plan for the associated costs.
Medicaid Planning
Determining if you qualify for Medicaid can feel overwhelming, especially with all the eligibility requirements. An elder law attorney can help you navigate the application process and provide assistance organizing your finances to ensure you qualify without losing your hard-earned savings. Without a strategic approach, you could end up paying out-of-pocket for care that Medicaid might have covered.
Guardianship & Conservatorship
In the event you ever become unable to manage your personal or financial matters, an elder law attorney can assist with setting up a guardianship or conservatorship. These options ensure that a reliable individual is designated to make decisions on your behalf, as well as manage your well-being and financial affairs.
Special Needs Planning
An elder law attorney can assist people with special needs, regardless of age, by addressing legal, financial, and care needs. They help create documents like special needs trusts to protect money and ensure individuals receive the support they need.
Elder Abuse & Neglect
Unfortunately, neglect and financial abuse are serious issues that have become a growing concern for seniors. An elder law attorney can help prevent and manage these problems by taking legal action against those who take advantage of seniors, whether they are family members, caregivers, or scammers.
If you’re looking to prepare and secure your future, we are here to help. Whether it’s creating a robust estate plan, navigating long-term care options, or ensuring you qualify for Medicaid without losing your savings, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
