The right elder law attorney can help seniors navigate their golden years and provide guidance to the family when they encounter difficult situations that arise due to the aging process. An elder law attorney may help with issues such as guardianship, conservatorship, powers of attorney, estate planning, Medicaid planning, probate and estate administration, Veteran’s benefits and advanced directives.
The Senior List’s recent article entitled “What is Elder Law and How Can an Elder Law Attorney Help Me?” explains that because the laws on the care of the elderly differ in each state and are always subject to change, it is essential to find an elder law attorney who is skilled, knowledgeable and up-to-date on elder law policy and legal issues.
Before meeting with an elder law attorney, create a list of the specific concerns for the present and foreseeable future so you know what qualifications and capabilities your attorney will need. You want a lawyer who is experienced and educated, as well as comfortable to speak with and relatable.
You can ask these questions of your elder law attorney to help you make your decision:
- How long have you been practicing in the elder law area?
- Do you stay up-to-date on this area of law by attending educational seminars or conferences on this subject matter?
- Take a look at the required services we think will be needed. Can you fulfill them?
- Are you a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys or do you have other designations specifically relating to elder law?
- Are you VA certified (if you or your spouse is a Veteran)?
If you would like more information on elder law, go online and search for “aging and disability” as well as the name of the state in which the senior lives. Every state government has a department in charge of these matters (the official names will vary).
While caring for a loved one can be stressful, understanding what options are available to them and to you can make it all much easier.
Reference: The Senior List (Oct. 10, 2019) “What is Elder Law and How Can an Elder Law Attorney Help Me?”
