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, Beck, Lenox and Stolzer Estate Planning and Elder Law, LLC, provides this blog to you, Hiring an Elder Law Attorney: A Guide for Seniors and Caregivers. It sheds light on 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
- VA benefits for long-term care (not every elder law firm handles this)
- 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.
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 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. Additionally, at Beck, Lenox and Stolzer, we have other professional resources to provide when a family is struggling with the right thing to do for their loved one.
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, 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. We hope this guide, Hiring an Elder Law Attorney: A Guide for Seniors and Caregivers, has been helpful to you.
Beck, Lenox and Stolzer Estate Planning and Elder Law has been practicing Elder law for over 20 years throughout the state of Missouri and would be happy to discuss your needs and concerns. Over 3,200 Medicaid applications and over 2,800 VA applications have been successfully submitted by our firm. Click here for more information on Elder law and to schedule a free phone consultation with one of our attorneys. Feel free to share this blog with others!
Reference: Forbes Advisor (Feb. 12, 2024), Hiring An Elder Law Attorney.
