Are you sometimes confused when reading about Medicaid, wills and trusts, what it means to be a guardian, or a legal power of attorney? There are both online and in person resources available to help make these topics less complicated. One of those resources is an elder law attorney. This may be a new term for you, so we have outlined some background information on the role of an elder law attorney, what one can do for you, and how to find one in your area.
What is an Elder Law Attorney?
Elder law attorneys are lawyers that handle a variety of legal issues specifically related to older or disabled adults. Elder law attorneys can act as advocates for those they represent. These legal matters can include items such as:
- Healthcare
- Long-term planning
- Guardianship
- Medicare/Medicaid
These experts can handle important financial and estate planning matters. In addition, due to their unique role and experiences, they can help with common issues that impact the care of seniors, like assisted living and end-of-life planning.
What Can an Elder Law Attorney Do for Me?
An elder law attorney can help you in many ways. Some of the common areas in which caregivers may need legal assistance, advice or enlist the support of an attorney on behalf of their care recipient include:
- Representation of the guardian on legal and financial matters as needed
- Guidance and creation of durable power of attorney, trusts, or estate planning
- Planning for Medicare or Medicaid coverage
- Processing social security and disability claims
- Probate avoidance
- Elder abuse and fraud recovery
- Understanding health and mental health law
- General guidance and assistance with long-term care planning
- And much more
How to Find an Elder Law Attorney Near You
To search for an attorney near you that has specialized experience in elder care law – visit the National Elder Law Foundation and search for a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) and follow the instructions below:
- Click on the following link: https://www.nelf.org/find-a-cela
- Select your state by clicking on it
- Search through the list provided by location nearest you
The legal scenarios faced by older adults can become more complicated when social security, Medicare, and estate planning are involved. An elder law attorney may be the support you need. Do some more research on your own and contact an attorney if you feel it would be helpful to you.