What is Elder Law and Do You Need an Elder Care Attorney?
First things first, what is an elder law attorney? Elder law attorneys can assist you with a wide range of different issues related to your senior care needs. For instance, if you are having any problems navigating through Medicaid, Veteran’s benefits, estate planning or even long-term care planning an elder law attorney can help you. The decision to hire an elder law attorney may be difficult if you previously didn’t consider the costs in your overall senior care budget – but the decision may also take some weight off your shoulders since they have expertise in complicated details.
What can an Elder Law Attorney do for me?
While considering the wellbeing of your senior loved one, an elder law attorney can help you navigate through several complex decisions.
Preservation of assets for your senior loved one
Social security and disability claims/appeals
Supplemental and long-term health insurance issues
Disability planning – Power of Attorney (POA), living trusts, and living wills
Administration of trusts and estates
Long term care placements in nursing homes and life care communities
Elder abuse and fraud recovery cases
Public and private retirement benefits, survivor benefits, and pension benefits
Hiring an Elder Law Attorney
When searching for an elder law attorney, seek referrals and advice from peers. A referral is very important, because you want to make sure you hire someone who you can depend on with very sensitive information. I encourage you to speak with your friends, family, accountant, perhaps even a lawyer you are currently working with. If you are having a hard time finding a referral; contact your local bar association. They will be able to provide you with a contact in the area you are seeking.
Also, when you are soliciting the services of an elder law attorney, make sure you evaluate their credentials. They must be registered by the Bar in the state that they are practicing law in. You should also consider researching the members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorney’s (NAELA) group because these Attorneys have exactly the expertise you need. Remember, Elder Law Attorney’s will have connections with psychologists, social workers and other elder care professionals that could be helpful to you as you navigate through this journey.