With the help of an experienced and compassionate elder law attorney, seniors and disabled individuals can complete advanced planning to ensure their future financial security as well as providing peace of mind for themselves and their loved ones.
These are the top 5 reasons seniors should consult an elder law attorney:
- ESTATE PLANNING
Elder law attorneys guide seniors to create a customized estate plan to ensure that their ultimate plan of distribution of assets stays within their family. Seniors can also choose to place certain constraints on how their beneficiaries will inherit assets to maintain control for beneficiaries who may be under age or have creditor issues. - QUALIFY FOR MEDICAID & VETERANS BENEFITS
Elder law attorneys work with families to qualify an eligible senior for Medicaid or veterans benefits when that person needs long-term care or additional assistance with their activities of daily living. - GUARDIANSHIP
Elder law attorneys represent families who seek guardianship over a senior or disabled person who is no longer able to manage his or her own affairs. They can also represent the alleged incapacitated person in contesting the appointment of a guardian. - PROBATE & TRUST ADMINISTRATION
If a person dies with assets in their name alone with or without a Last Will & Testament, an elder law attorney can assist the personal representative in the probate process and distribution of the estate assets to the decedent’s beneficiaries. Elder law attorneys are also well-versed in the many laws and rules that govern trust administration following the Grantor’s death, as well as the fiduciary role a trustee fills. - PLAN FOR DISABILITY OR INCAPACITY
Elder law attorneys can help you establish a durable power of attorney and living trusts for financial management during your lifetime as well as a designation of health care surrogate to make medical decisions for you in the case of incompetency or incapacity. Without a plan in place, a guardianship will likely be required.