Finding Legal Assistance for Seniors: Tips and Resources

Seniors may need legal assistance for a variety of reasons, such as estate planning, drafting and executing important legal documents, elder abuse or exploitation, or navigating complex government programs like Medicare or Social Security. Legal assistance can help seniors protect their rights and ensure their wishes are carried out properly.

Some tips for finding a reputable legal assistance provider for seniors include checking with local bar associations or legal aid societies, asking for referrals from friends or family members who have used legal services, and researching online reviews and ratings from previous clients. It’s also important to ask questions about the provider’s experience working with seniors and their specific legal needs.

There are a variety of legal assistance options available for seniors, including pro bono legal services, legal aid clinics, and private attorneys who specialize in elder law. Seniors may also be eligible for free or reduced-cost legal assistance through government programs like the Administration on Aging’s Legal Assistance Development Program or the Legal Services Corporation.

If a senior suspects that they or someone they know is being abused or exploited, they should contact their local law enforcement agency or adult protective services immediately. They may also want to seek legal assistance to help protect their rights and hold the abuser accountable.

There are a number of resources available to help seniors find legal assistance, including local bar associations, legal aid societies, and government agencies. The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and the American Bar Association’s Commission on Law and Aging also offer directories of legal assistance providers and other helpful resources.