Elder law is a specialized area of legal practice that focuses on the unique needs and challenges faced by senior citizens. It encompasses a wide range of legal issues that are particularly relevant to older adults, including estate planning, long-term care planning, guardianship, Medicaid planning, and more.

An Elder Law attorney provides a variety of services to senior clients. These may include creating and updating estate plans, drafting wills and trusts, establishing guardianships or conservatorships, assisting with long-term care planning and Medicaid applications, advocating for clients in elder abuse or neglect cases, and providing guidance on issues related to Social Security, Medicare, and other government benefits.

It is advisable to consult an Elder Law attorney when you or your loved ones are approaching retirement age or facing health issues that may require long-term care. It is also a good idea to consult an Elder Law attorney when you need assistance with estate planning, including the creation of wills and trusts, or when you have concerns about protecting your assets and qualifying for government benefits such as Medicaid.

Medicaid planning is a legal strategy used to protect assets while still qualifying for Medicaid, a government program that provides healthcare coverage for low-income individuals, including seniors. Medicaid planning involves structuring assets and income in a way that meets Medicaid eligibility requirements, allowing individuals to receive the necessary long-term care services without depleting their savings or assets.

A guardianship or conservatorship is a legal arrangement in which a court appoints an individual or entity to make decisions and manage the affairs of another person who is unable to do so on their own due to incapacity or disability. This may include making medical decisions, managing finances, or overseeing personal care. Guardianships and conservatorships are often necessary when an older adult becomes mentally or physically incapacitated and is no longer able to make sound decisions.