1. Why Hire an Elder Law Attorney?
Elder law attorneys are lawyers that practice their expertise of the state elder law. Aside from
being knowledgeable with the local laws pertaining to the elderly, they are also aware of the
unique needs of seniors and how to professionally approach legal needs of these individuals as
well.
An elder law attorney may also be an estate planning lawyer considering seniors may also need
legal help in securing their properties and estates in their condition. A lawyer who practices
elder law may also assist seniors through the following conditions:
Health care which includes the client’s legal plans should his health fails or for his personal care
should he gets ill or is unable to manage his estates; this includes legal documents like powers
of attorney and living wills.
Estate planning lawyer for the elderly which includes financial planning, home financing, income
and estate planning.
Residency facilities which also include living in a nursing home and the client’s rights in long
term care facilities.
Retirement matters which includes any discrimination on the client’s age or disability and even
grandparent’s rights.
An elder law attorney is an expert with the ins and outs of the elder law with a special attention
to planning for an illness, incapacity and estate planning. This eliminates any potential
difficulties for the senior citizen and his heirs should he becomes sick or when in the event he
expires.
Different states have different qualifications for elder law attorneys. Some states require
certification that a lawyer must be in a good standing of their state bar association and may
have practiced the profession for a given number of years. The aspiring elder law attorney must
also be involved with the practice of issues regarding the elderly more than any other clients
that he has. Aside from these qualifications, he must also pass a comprehensive written exam
and an in depth review before he is considered for the position.
The National Elder Law Foundation is an organization that provides board examination for elder
law attorneys in the US. After passing the exam, lawyers may now practice elder law and will
have CELA after their names are written.
Aspiring elder law attorneys may also check out the bar association of their specific state or the
website of the National Elder Law Foundation at www.nelf.org or the website of the National
Academy of Elder Law Attorneys at www.naela.org for more details.
When you meet with an elder law specialist, you need to find out how many years has he
been practicing as an elder law attorney; don’t be afraid to ask about his experience with your
particular case or situation. Ask for his membership or affiliation with an elder law attorney
association and how much training he has for the field. He must be able to answer your
questions and inquiries easily and explain any legal issues to you and your family in an efficient
manner. He must also provide contact details and give an estimate of his fees as well.
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