What are elder law attorneys and how do I choose one?
Senior Citizen Lawyers handle a wide range of legal matters affecting the elderly or disabled. This includes concerns such as care planning, guardianship, retirement, Medicare, taxes, living wills, estate planning, and housing issues, among others. This is a new concept to many people, and it’s actually a fairly new category in the legal field. If you are new to the idea, you may be wondering why it is important to find someone to represent you or your loved one.
Who are elder law attorneys?
They must be licensed to practice in one or more states, practice for five or more years, and have completed 45 hours of continuing education in this area over the last three years to become certified by the National Elder Law Foundation for this type. They also have to pass a certification exam.
Do I really need one?
Senior citizen attorneys are good for people who need help navigating the extreme complexities of federal taxes, property issues, Medicare/Medicaid, and Social Security. Your lawyer can help you advocate for the best step to take, and can also make sure that you are taking that next step legally. They can also be a compassionate, but not overly emotional advisor, helping prepare trusts, wills, and end-of-life plans.
How do I choose the right person for my needs?
If you or your loved one have a specific case, such as age discrimination, disability, mental health issues, social security, or abuse, you may want to consider hiring someone who has experience in your area. If you are looking for a more general service, ask if they have had clients similar to you or your loved one. Ask them what results you can expect if you hire them, or how other cases similar to yours have turned out. You should also make sure they are very familiar with your state’s statutes, which usually change all the time. Finally, find out if they are members of any organizations that are specifically related to your needs.
How much is it going to cost me?
Fees can be assessed in many different ways. Ask in advance how much and how often you will be billed. Some will expect payment biweekly, others monthly, and still others will request payment at the end of the job. Some charge a flat rate, while others will want to be paid by the hour and may also bill by paralegal or investigative hours. Also, ask about any incidental costs you may be charged, for things like copying, postage, or court fees.
Once you choose one of the available elder law attorneys to represent you or your loved one, be sure to get their agreement in writing so that your mutual expectations are clearly spelled out. This is important because of the type of work you will be doing. You must be comfortable with the person you have chosen to help navigate these difficult waters.