What does a elder law attorney do?
Elder law attorneys focus on the legal needs of older adults and their families: planning for the cost of long-term care, qualifying for Medicaid and veterans’ benefits, guardianship, and protecting seniors from financial exploitation and abuse.
Because Medicaid eligibility rules include look-back periods and complex asset limits, planning ahead with an elder law attorney can preserve significantly more of a family’s savings.
Common elder law cases
- Medicaid and long-term care planning
- Guardianship and conservatorship
- Veterans’ benefits
- Elder abuse and financial exploitation
- Nursing home rights
- Special needs trusts
When should you hire a elder law attorney?
- A parent or spouse may need nursing home or in-home care
- A loved one can no longer manage finances or medical decisions
- You suspect a senior is being exploited or neglected
How much does a elder law attorney cost?
Elder law attorneys commonly offer flat-fee planning packages and bill hourly for guardianship or litigation.
Questions to ask in your consultation
- How far in advance should we plan for Medicaid eligibility?
- Is guardianship necessary, or are there less restrictive options?
- What benefits might we be overlooking?