Hiring an Elder Law Attorney: A Guide for Seniors and Caregivers

As we age, we encounter a variety of legal matters and decisions that affect our financial stability, help protect us from elder abuse and account for our care as health becomes a more significant consideration. Working with an elder law attorney before you have a major issue is an empowering step towards peace of mind as we age.

Drawing insights from a Forbes Advisor article, this article sheds light on the importance of hiring an elder law attorney and how to find the right one for your needs.

What Elder Law Attorneys Do

Elder law attorneys focus on older adults and their caregivers and handle an array of legal matters, including:

• Estate and disability planning
• Medicaid and Medicare planning
• Long-term care arrangements
• Guardianship and conservatorship
• Elder abuse and fraud recovery

Their services extend beyond traditional estate planning, taking a holistic approach to seniors' legal, financial and healthcare needs.  At Curran Estate & Elder Law in Reading, Pennsylvania, we are a life care planning firm, which means that we encompass all of the matters listed above with the additional of a Care Coordinator to our staff.

When to Consider Hiring an Elder Law Attorney

The need for an elder law attorney arises in various situations, particularly as one traverses the later stages of life. Key moments to seek their counsel include:

• Planning for Medicaid eligibility and asset protection
• Establishing durable powers of attorney for healthcare and financial decisions
• Addressing the legal and care needs of a senior with diminished capacity
• Going through the probate process and estate administration

Elder law attorneys advocate for older adults to protect their rights and interests.

Key Takeaways

• The Role of Elder Law Attorneys: They provide legal assistance to seniors and their families, covering a broad spectrum of age-related issues.
• When to Hire an Elder Law Attorney: Seek their advice for Medicaid planning/asset protection, estate planning and age-related legal challenges.
• Finding the Right Attorney: Look for an experienced and compassionate elder law professional.

Conclusion

Elder law attorneys are valuable advocates for seniors and their families, helping them preserve financial stability, plan long-term health care and help prevent abuse. Remember, the right elder law attorney can make a significant difference in preserving your quality of life and legacy.

Reference: Forbes Advisor (Feb. 12, 2024), Hiring An Elder Law Attorney.