What Do Elder Care Lawyers Do?
Estate Planning:
- Wills and Trusts: Drafting and managing wills and trusts to ensure that assets are distributed according to the individual’s wishes.
- Advance Directives: Creating advance directives such as living wills and healthcare proxies to guide medical and end-of-life decisions.
Long-Term Care Planning:
- Medicaid Planning: Assisting with Medicaid eligibility and application processes to cover long-term care costs.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: Advising on long-term care insurance policies and planning for future care needs.
Guardianship and Conservatorship:
- Establishing Guardianship: Helping families establish legal guardianship for seniors who are unable to make decisions for themselves.
- Managing Conservatorship: Managing conservatorship for individuals who need assistance with financial and personal affairs.
Elder Abuse and Fraud:
- Legal Protection: Advocating for seniors who are victims of physical, emotional, or financial abuse.
- Litigation: Representing clients in legal actions against abusers or fraudulent entities.
Retirement and Benefits:
- Social Security and Pensions: Advising on Social Security benefits, pension plans, and other retirement benefits.
- Veterans Benefits: Assisting veterans in accessing benefits and services they are entitled to.
Healthcare and Disability:
- Medicare and Medicaid: Providing guidance on Medicare and Medicaid benefits and coverage.
- Disability Planning: Assisting with planning for disability, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Housing and Long-Term Care:
- Nursing Home Contracts: Reviewing and advising on nursing home and assisted living facility contracts..
- Housing Options: Helping seniors and their families explore housing options and plan for transitions to assisted living or nursing homes.
Family Disputes:
- Mediation: Mediating family disputes related to elder care, inheritance, and guardianship.
- Litigation: Representing clients in court to resolve family conflicts and protect the rights of seniors.
Choosing an Elder Care Lawyer:
- Experience and Expertise: Look for lawyers specializing in elder law with a proven track record.
- Compassion and Understanding: Choose a lawyer who demonstrates empathy and a thorough understanding of the unique challenges faced by the elderly.
Consultation and Planning:
- Initial Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation to discuss specific needs and goals.
- Comprehensive Planning: Work with the lawyer to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses legal, financial, and healthcare needs.