Functions and Duties of an Elder Law Attorney

Elder law attorneys and elder care attorneys deal with legal needs of the elderly – those typically above 65 years of age. Elder care attorneys also work on behalf of their disabled clients who are below 65 years of age and have similar long-term care needs to those of the elderly.

Duties of an Elder Care Attorney

One of the main functions of an elder care attorney is the provision of legal assistance in the case of will and estate planning of the elderly. The scope of elder law attorneys, however, extends to assisting the elderly with any legal issue they may have. These issues include:

• Living wills – An elder law attorney helps to draft a will and advise on estate planning that protects the interests of the elder and the family.
• Long-term care – An elder care attorney uses his experience and expertise to locate the right nursing home facility that will provide long-term quality care at an affordable cost that works for the elder and his family.

Nursing Home Care

An elder care attorney also keeps abreast with the deliverables promised by the nursing home and ensures that they carry out their obligations efficiently. Should the need arise; the elder care attorney defends the rights of the resident against neglect, negligence or improper treatment of the resident.

• Guardianship – An elder law attorney advises the elder on the prudence of enabling a family member or any other responsible person to make decisions on his behalf with regard to his health, finances and legal issues if he becomes incapacitated.
• Medicaid Eligibility – An elder care attorney advises on how to plan for long-term care while protecting your estate from being taken up with medical costs. The three main ways of paying for long-term care is either self-paying, long-term care insurance or Medicaid.

An elder care attorney helps to advice through the complicated web of Medicaid eligibility and by understanding the system guides the elder in a successful estate planning.

• Probate administration and representation – An elder law attorney facilitates arrangements of estate administration and representation early in advance for the benefit of the family. In the event that disputes do arise after the passing of the elder, the elder law attorney helps in resolution of these disputes including matters of a contested will.

Factors to consider when choosing an elder care attorney

• Expert and exclusive focus on elder law – Elder law can be very complex, detailed and ever-changing and the ideal elder care attorney is one who is intimately familiar with it and practices it regularly and seriously.
• Experience – Long-term expertise and experience are the cornerstone of a successful elder care attorney who is able to handle each client’s case in an individualized and experienced manner.
• Active and Good Listener – The ideal elder law attorney is one who takes the time to understand the client’s needs and specifications and is attentive to listen and care about your welfare and working together with you to craft the best solution.

Learn more about attorney Sean J. Nichols and the legal services he provides for clients including: estate planning, elder law issues, Medicaid planning, elder care, probate law, guardianships, and power of attorney (POA) at www.seanjnichols.com.  To contact the offices of Sean J Nichols call 734.386.0224 today.

Elder Law: Helping Seniors Plan For Their Future

One of the best things about U.S. law is that there are so many different areas of it that cover all aspects of life. Among the many different areas of law that attorneys can specialize in, elder law is just one. Elder law comprises of helping aged people plan for their future and for what happens after they pass away. While it's not a subject that people enjoy talking about, it's a necessity for all seniors. Attorneys who practice elder law can help elderly people with all aspects of their current life and assets.
Many different issues fall under the elder law heading, but some of the most common are outlined here.

1. Estate Planning

It's crucial that a properly executed will is prepared for you to make sure your estate is adequately handled after your death. Meeting with estate lawyers to discuss your heirs and last wishes are crucial if you have an estate of any size. A will that clearly and concisely states who will inherit what and how your estate is to be distributed can prevent your heirs from squabbling about your estate after you've passed away.

2. Protecting Seniors from Abuse

This is one of the most distressing examples of why you may want to consult an attorney specializing in concerns of the elderly. If you have an aged parent who is in a nursing home, receiving skilled nursing care, or being cared for by someone else and you suspect that your parent is being neglected or abused, you must consult with a litigation attorney as soon as possible who specializes in cases of elder abuse. They can give you the guidance and support you need while investigating and filing suit against the abuser or abusers.

3. Conservatorships

It may be necessary to establish a conservatorship over an elder's estate when proper estate planning documents have not been put into place. To make financial decisions essential and healthcare for an elder court intervention is sought to grant someone the authority.

4. Help with Financial Planning

Are you planning to retire? Then an elder law specialist can help you develop a stable, long-term financial plan that will protect your finances while allowing you to live comfortably in your golden years. Estate lawyers can also help you choose an appropriate nursing home or assisted living facility when the time comes and oversee your finances to make sure your bills are paid, and your property is handled correctly.

5. Social Security Disputes

Social security is a financial safety net for many seniors after retirement. Depending on the monthly checks you receive from social security can be difficult, particularly if you don't feel you're receiving appropriate benefits. If you have a dispute over your social security payments, an elder law litigation attorney can represent you and protect your interests, helping you get the social security benefits you deserve.

An elder law attorney can be an excellent partner for you as you plan out the legal and financial aspects of the next stage of your life or the life of a loved one.
Learn more about attorney Sean J. Nichols and the legal services he provides for clients including: estate planning, elder law issues, Medicaid planning, elder care, probate law, guardianships, and power of attorney (POA) at www.seanjnichols.com.  To contact the offices of Sean J Nichols call 734.386.0224 today.