Elder Law is for Everyone!

What is Elder Law and what do Elder Law attorneys do? Those are two questions I always hear when I talk about work. I always struggle with how to explain it in a way that conveys the true nature of the results of our services. Results like peace of mind, relief from stress and family harmony.

We help families plan for and overcome worst case scenarios. Accidents, illness and death can leave you, your family and your things vulnerable and unprotected. Not having a plan for who is in charge and how things are to be taken care of can cause uncertainty, chaos and family squabbling. Failing to plan for long term care needs can cost tens of thousands of dollars. We want to help you make a plan. If the worst happens without a plan, we are here to help provide solutions.

Elder Law vs. Estate Planning

Estate planning is a major component of an Elder Law practice. The basic difference is that Elder Law seeks to preserve income and assets for use while you are alive. That way you can continue to maintain your lifestyle if you receive home care or enter a nursing facility.

Estate planning is primarily concerned with implementing your wishes and distributing your assets after you pass away in the most efficient and tax advantaged way.

The two go hand-in-hand. Without including Elder Law in your estate plan to preserve and protect your assets and income, you may not have an estate left after paying for long term care.

When to Call an Elder Law Attorney

When you or your child turns 18. You will need powers of attorney in case of an emergency. After becoming a legal adult, parents and guardians can no longer act on behalf of their children or receive medical information without legal authorization.

When you get married, buy a home, or have children. You will need documents to protect you and your family in the event of an accident or illness. Appointing a guardian and conservator for your minor child(ren) is also very important if something should happen to you.

When you are the parent or guardian of a disabled person and want to be sure that they will be protected and provided for if something happens to you.

When you get remarried. Getting remarried can really complicate your estate without proper planning. In some instances, you could accidentally disinherit your children from a previous marriage.

When you become a caregiver for a parent or loved one. Being a caregiver can be very rewarding. It can also be very hard work. Because we work closely with the long term care community, we have access to resources that provide support and services to senior caregivers.

When you become concerned about your own long term healthcare needs. The sooner you start planning the better. If you wait until you are on the verge of needing, or already receiving, long term healthcare, we can still help. You don’t have to spend your life savings or risk losing your home to pay for your care.

When a loved one becomes incapacitated or passes away. If they have planning in place, we can help the appointed guardians and /or trustees through the administration process. If they do not have planning in place, or have a will based plan, we can help you navigate probate.

How to Get Started

Call us, or fill out the form below and we’ll call you. That’s it. We will guide you through the rest of the process. Peace of mind, relief from stress, and family harmony is just a phone call away.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!