Elder law lawyers have a unique focus compared to other attorneys. Rather than specializing in a specific type of legal problem, they prioritize helping a specific group of people. These legal professionals work towards maximizing the independence and quality of life of older individuals. However, to understand what this assistance entails, it is important to first understand what elder law is and the legal issues it involves.
A Basic Overview of Elder Law
Elder law is a term used to describe the legal issues affecting people over 65 years old and their caretakers, family, and friends. Attorneys who specialize in this field handle a broad range of legal and practical issues, including the following:
- Estate planning
- Health care planning
- Fiduciary representation
- Public benefits
- Legal capacity counseling
- Special needs
- Senior counseling
- Housing issues
- Insurance issues
- Residence rights
- Employment advice
- Retirement planning
How Can an Experienced Elder Law Attorney Help You?
The legal needs of aging adults tend to differ from those of younger adults. For instance, older adults are generally more concerned about health care, caregiving costs, retirement, disability, guardianship, and long-term care. Fortunately, there are legal professionals who can help seniors and their families with all these issues plus so much more. When you work with an experienced elder law attorney, these professionals can help prevent and solve problems in the following areas:
- Disability Planning: An elder law attorney can draft financial and health care powers of attorney.
- Insurance Issues: These lawyers can help individuals with legal issues related to health, long-term care, and disability.
- Long-Term Care Payment: An elder law lawyer can assist with obtaining Medicare, Medicaid, and Veterans Benefits for individuals at home or in an assisted living or nursing home.
- Legal Capacity: An elder law attorney can advise individuals on how capacity is evaluated and the capacity needed for decision-making.
- Elder Abuse: If a loved one has experienced elder abuse, an elder law lawyer can help remedy the situation and fight for the financial compensation they deserve.
- Planning for Retirement: These legal professionals can help individuals maximize Social Security, IRAs, pensions, and other accounts.
- Housing: An elder law attorney can counsel individuals regarding housing options, such as assisted living facilities, retirement communities, or living with a family member, and help them determine what options may be best for them.
- Estate Planning: Elder law lawyers can assist with estate planning and minimizing estate and income taxes.
However, to better understand what legal tasks an elder law attorney can handle on your behalf, contact an experienced elder law attorney today to learn more about their practice and the services they can provide.
What Questions To Review With Your Elder Law Attorney?
Due to the various issues that make up elder law, not every elder law attorney may specialize in your particular area of concern. That is why, before retaining an elder law attorney, you want to make sure these legal professionals can handle your case and have the experience and knowledge to take on your sensitive issues in an understanding manner.
To make an informed decision, you may want to consider asking the following questions to learn more about the lawyer and their practice:
- How long have you been practicing elder law?
- What percentage of your time is spent on elder law cases?
- What are your fees?
- How often will you be communicating with me about my case?
- Have you handled cases similar to mine?
Contact Hollingsworth Law Today To Learn More
If you have further questions about elder law or want to discuss a specific issue you have, contact Hollingsworth Law today and learn more about how our legal team can help you.