Are you or a loved one facing financial or legal matters resulting from simply getting older? You may be in need of an attorney that specializes in this area.
Elder law attorneys focus on issues and legal matters affecting seniors and their families. We can provide a wide range of services, but what should you expect when you hire one?
Let’s explore everything you need to know when hiring an elder law attorney.
Elder law is a legal practice area that focuses on issues that affect older individuals and their families.
These issues include:
Elder law attorneys help their clients navigate these complex legal issues.
Elder law can be complicated and confusing. Hiring an attorney can help ensure that you or your loved ones receive the best possible care and that their legal needs are met.
Elder law attorneys have specialized knowledge of the laws and regulations surrounding issues affecting seniors. We can guide you through complex legal processes and help you make informed decisions about your future.
Seniors and their loved ones face unique challenges, and elder law attorneys can provide various services that address them.
Estate planning is a critical part of elder law. It involves creating legal documents that outline your wishes for your assets and healthcare if you become incapacitated or pass away. Elder law attorneys can help you create wills, trusts, and powers of attorney that meet your needs and honor your wishes.
Long-term care and Medicaid planning involve preparing for the possibility that you or a loved one may need care in a nursing home or assisted living facility. Elder law attorneys can help you navigate the complex rules and regulations surrounding Medicaid and other government benefit programs.
If someone becomes incapacitated and cannot make important decisions for themselves, guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary. Elder law attorneys can help you navigate the legal process of appointing a guardian or conservator and ensure that your loved one’s interests are protected.
Elder law attorneys can also help you with strategies like Medicaid asset protection. They can assist with creating trusts and other legal structures to shield your assets from probate, lawsuits, creditors, and other legal actions.
When hiring an elder law attorney, finding someone with experience in the field is important.
Look for an attorney with a track record of successfully representing clients in elder law cases. Additionally, you should confirm that your attorney is licensed to practice law in North Carolina and is in good standing with the bar association. Here at Cary Estate Planning, we have qualified elder law attorneys who are licensed to practice law in North Carolina.
Before your first meeting with an elder law attorney, it’s a good idea to gather any relevant documents or information related to the issues you’re facing. This may include financial statements, medical records, and any legal documents you have created.
Additionally, be prepared to discuss your goals and concerns with your attorney.
The legal process in elder law can vary depending on the issue you are dealing with. However, you can generally expect to work closely with your elder law attorney to create legal documents, gather evidence, and navigate the court system if necessary.
The length of the legal process can also vary depending on the complexity of your situation and the court’s schedule. Some cases can be resolved relatively quickly, while others may take several months or even years to reach a conclusion.
When hiring an elder law attorney at Cary Estate Planning, you should expect us to act in your best interests and provide sound legal advice. Your attorney will communicate with you regularly and keep you informed about the progress of your case.
At Cary Estate Planning, our passion and goal is to provide peace of mind and a customized plan based on our client’s needs.
Hiring an elder law attorney can be a smart decision for anyone who needs help navigating the complex legal issues that affect seniors and their families. Working with an elder law attorney ensures that your legal needs are met and that you or your loved one receives the best possible care.
If you need help with an elder law issue, contact us today at Cary Estate Planning, and we’ll walk you through the legal process.
What is the difference between elder law and estate planning?
Elder law is a legal practice area that focuses on issues that affect seniors and their families, while estate planning specifically deals with planning for the distribution of assets after death.
How do I know if I need an elder law attorney?
If you or a loved one is facing legal issues related to aging, such as estate planning or long-term care planning, hiring an elder law attorney may be beneficial.
Can I hire an elder law attorney for a one-time service?
Yes. Many elder law attorneys offer services on a case-by-case basis, such as creating a will or power of attorney.
Will hiring an elder law attorney guarantee a positive outcome?
While an elder law attorney can provide valuable legal guidance and advice, they cannot guarantee a specific outcome. The legal process can be unpredictable, and the outcome will depend on several factors, including the facts of the case and the court’s decision.
Paul Yokabitus is the CEO and Managing Partner of Cary Estate Planning, a Cary, NC, estate planning law firm. With years of experience in estate and elder law, he has zealously represented clients in various legal matters, including estate planning, guardianship, Medicaid planning, estate administration, and other cases.
Paul received his Juris Doctor from the Campbell University School of Law and is a North Carolina Bar Association member. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including being named among the “Best Attorney in Cary” in 2016 and 2017 by Cary News and Rising Star in 2020-2023 by Super Lawyers.