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Choose an Elder Law Attorney over just an Estate Planning Attorney
So you are wondering: I am a senior citizen and there are so many decisions to make: Where do I live as I age? Who will care for me if I cannot take care of myself? Who will make the financial decisions and pay my bills when I cannot? Where will my assets go if I am ill and need to be in a nursing home [1]? Do I want to be in a nursing home or do I prefer to stay in my home if at all possible. Are my assets protected from scam artists and those con artists who target the elderly and other vulnerable adults [2]? What benefits do I need to consider or do I even qualify for? I am still working. Will I be fired or laid off because of my age? Do I understand the social security system or my health care [3] insurance options? Whatever the question, you can find expert advice by consulting a specialist in laws affecting the elderly [4].
The term “elder law” was first coined in the late 1990’s to describe the law and issues pertaining to senior citizens. This may include health care, competency, age discrimination, estate planning, Veteran’s benefits, social security, survivors’ benefits and many other topics that directly affect anyone who is past retirement age. If you are over 65 and have questions about any of these issues, be sure you consult with an attorney experienced in elder law not just estate planning. Florida and especially the east coast attract retirees because of the beautiful weather and many activities.
The Growth of Elder Law: Every day since January 1, 2011, 10,000 people a day turn 65
Beginning January 1st, 2011 every single day more than 10,000 Baby Boomers will reach the age of 65. That is going to keep happening every single day for the next 19 years. Baby Boomers are the most famous generation in American history. The U.S. Census Bureau defines the Baby Boomers as those born between January 1st, 1946 and December 31st, 1964. After U.S. troops returned from World War II, they quickly settled down and everyone started having lots and lots of babies. This gigantic generation has transformed America as they have passed through every stage of life. Now they are getting ready to retire.
It’s this statistic that has contributed to the need for experienced estate attorneys and senior citizen focused litigation attorneys [5]. Whether you are interested in setting up an estate in order to leave a legacy for your children after your death, you suspect you have been discriminated against because of your age, or you suspect a family member has been exploited by another you should consult with an elder law litigation attorney. He or she can guide you through every phase of planning or legal action necessary. With more and more people living longer lives, [6] there has been an increase in problems with obtaining social security benefits, processing Medicare claims, and addressing and obtaining long term care benefits.
The Complexity of Elder Law: Florida Attorneys Wear Many Hats
It is unusual for a specific niche in the legal profession to be defined more by the type of client than by the type of law being practiced. For instance, some attorneys specialize in criminal law, others in tax law or family law [7]. Elder law is different because the attorney [4] isn’t focusing on any one type of law; instead he is focusing on one type of client – the senior citizen.
If you are interested in learning more about elder law, this firm can help. You do not necessarily need a litigation attorney; but the firms has experience in everything from drawing up a will to helping clients preserve their assets or choosing an appropriate individual for power of attorney [8]. If you are close to 65 or over 65, you will discover that working with an elder law specialist is reassuring and efficient. You will not have to switch from attorney to attorney as your legal needs change because your lawyer can be your estate [9] attorney, litigation attorney, and probate/family court attorney for capacity and death issues.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]