Elder Law

Elder law is a specialized area of law focused on the unique legal needs of older adults and their families.  Elder law focuses on the legal, financial and personal issues that arise as we age.  This includes planning on how to pay for long-term care, planning in the event of incapacity, representation for guardianship and conservatorship, and probate administration for families managing estates after death.

Medicaid Planning

Planning for long-term care can be one of the most important and often overwhelming parts of aging.  Medicaid is a needs-based program that may help cover long-term care costs such as nursing or, in some situations, in-home care.  Long-term care in all settings is expensive.

Medicaid is a joint state and federal program.  Medicaid is distinct from Medicare.  Many people are surprised to learn that Medicare does not cover long-term care.

The Medicaid rules are complex and state specific.  Medicaid has strict requirements about income, assets and transfers in order to qualify and stay on the program.  Medicaid planning is highly technical and must be done carefully to avoid penalties or disqualification.

When to Plan?

While you may not currently need long-term care, it is important to have a plan for your estate, finances, and future health care needs if you ever do need it.  Medicaid planning is part of a broader long-term care and incapacity planning strategy.  Advanced Medicaid Planning may begin when one receives a diagnosis and years before care is needed.  Advanced Medicaid Planning can provide the most options including long-term strategies designed to preserve assets for a spouse, family members or future needs.

Our services include Medicaid eligibility analysis and consultations.  We can help clients understand their options and the eligibility requirements for qualifying for Medicaid long-term care benefits.

Incapacity Planning

Incapacity Planning focuses on what happens when you are unable to act for yourself.  It is the process of making legal and financial arrangements in case you become unable to make decisions or manage your affairs due to illness, injury, or cognitive decline.  Planning ahead in the event of incapacity can help you avoid the need for a court-appointed guardian or conservator, protect your finances and property, ensure your medical wishes are honored, and reduce stress and conflict for your loved ones.