What is Elder Law?
Elder Law is an area of law concentrating on the legal needs of the elderly and special needs clients. A well-rounded Elder Law attorney will address a client’s general estate planning issues while also advising them on planning for incapacity and possible long-term care needs, including nursing home care. Additionally, they will have knowledge of Veteran’s Benefits, Medicaid (MO HealthNet), and other government benefit programs to assist with paying for long-term care and skilled nursing care.
Nursing Home Planning
Estate Planning
Mission Statement
Wills & Trusts
Estate planning is necessary to properly honor your wishes after death. Wills and Trusts serve different purposes, but often the words are interchanged. Find out the difference and what is right for your situation:
Powers of Attorney
Anyone can become incapacitated at any time. Consulting with a lawyer about the different types of powers of attorney and advanced planning will help protect you in that situation. To find out more:
Irrevocable Trusts
An irrevocable trust can help protect your assets for the future. However, there can be pitfalls when placing assets into a trust which is not revocable. To find out if an irrevocable trust is right for you:
Special Needs Trusts
What is the purpose of a Supplemental Needs Trust? To balance the eligibility of a person receiving benefits from government programs while keeping other family resources protected. To find out more:
Nursing Home Planning
There is a lot to plan and prepare for when considering your future long term care needs, including being prepared for potentially entering a nursing home. It's a complicated process and each person's situation is different. To find out how you can prepare:
Medicaid Asset Protection
If you're considering Medicaid to assist with paying for the nursing home but are worried about having too many assets, then it's time to talk to a lawyer. A lawyer practicing in Elder Law can assist you before and during your Medicaid application process. To find out more:
Veteran's Benefits
A lawyer accredited through the Department of Veterans Affairs can discuss with you how pension programs developed for seniors may assist with your long term care needs. It is important to understand how your assets and potential future Medicaid needs fit into the big picture. Find out more:
Probate
Dealing with property ownership of a deceased family member can be tricky. It is essential to determine whether probate is required. Properly handling most ownership issues must occur within one year of a person's death. To find out how a lawyer can help you in this situation: