What is elder law? It is a branch of law that has developed as life expectancies have increased. An elder law attorney works to serve the needs of elderly persons. They may also represent those with disabilities and their families. Many caregivers already know that elder law covers a wide array of legal and financial client issues.
A skilled elder law attorney assists clients to ensure the welfare and rights of seniors and their family members are protected. Seniors face many issues involving conservatorship, guardianship, estate planning, power of attorney, probate and estate administration, Medicaid planning and advanced directives.
What is Elder Law and Finding an Attorney
The laws surrounding the care of seniors varies significantly from state to state. Therefore, it is crucial to retain an elder law attorney who is knowledgeable, skilled and current about legal issues in their respective state. If it is time for you to engage an attorney, you can seek out recommendations from family, friends, health care professional, your tax accountant or anyone you trust.
Before interviewing an elder law attorney, prepare a list of specific concerns you face both in the near-term and in the foreseeable future. You want to ensure that the attorney you retain has the capabilities and qualifications to address your individual circumstances. Some elder law attorneys may focus their practice on specific aspects of the elder laws, while other law firms may offer a wider array of practice areas.
In addition, you want to find an attorney who has the education and experience to assist you as well as someone who communicates well. You need to be comfortable asking your questions. You may find quite a few answers on the attorney’s website. Still, a face-to-face interview is best, especially when you want to help a senior who may be vulnerable to losing rights.
What does Elder Law Cover?
Elder law attorneys advocate for seniors and their loved ones. Most elder law attorneys can assist with a broad array of legal and financial matters that impact seniors and disabled persons, including matters related to long-term care planning, health care, retirement, guardianship, Medicare/Medicaid, Social Security and other critical issues.
Many elder law attorneys focus their practices on these senior issues, which are frequently very different than the needs of young adults. They assist with day-to-day issues that impact the actual care of the elderly, such as life planning and assisted living. They assist with estate planning and other financial matters. In addition, elder law attorneys are typically prepared to address the sensitive emotional needs of the elderly and disabled.
Contact the elder law attorneys at Mile High Estate Planning today.