Elder Law
Elder Law is an area of the law focused on the needs of the elderly and disabled.
Some areas of Elder Law include:
- Estate Planning
- Planning for Incapacity
- Long-Term Care Planning
- MO HealthNet (Medicaid)
- Medical Directives
- Special Needs Planning
- Retirement Planning
- Disability Planning
- Medicare
- Social Security
- Debt Collection Concerns
- Nursing Home Issues
When to start
The earlier you start planning for assistance due to aging, illness, injury, or special needs, the more options you will have to accomplish your goals.
Where to begin
Elder Law encompasses so many different issues, it can be overwhelming and confusing. In addition, the interplay between federal, state, and military benefits and services can be rather complex. If you have questions about planning for assistance due to aging, illness, injury or special needs, or if you know someone who needs assistance and you’re not sure how you can help, call our office and set up a complimentary consultation (for new clients) with one of our attorneys. *The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisement.
What to bring
To get the most out of your initial consultation, you should bring with you the following:
- List of your Assets Including Value & Ownership
- Current Income Including Amounts & Sources
- Expenses
- Copies of Deeds to Real Estate Owned
- Completed Applications for Assistance
- Long Term Care Insurance Documents
- All Current Estate Planning Documents:
- Trusts
- Wills
- Powers of Attorney (including advanced directives)
What to expect
You will meet with one of our attorneys who will review your individual situation, discuss your personal goals and expectations and educate you on the options and resources that may be available to accomplish your goals. Often this first meeting is an opportunity to learn more, ask questions and identify the decisions that you will need to make. Additional consultations are scheduled as needed so that you will feel comfortable, understand your choices and how best to proceed with your personal plan.
We don’t stop there
While many firms provide documents such as powers of attorney, we are available to assist you with issues such as planning for your long term care and locating resources and support organizations that may be of assistance to you and your family members. We also provide bill pay services for individuals who may benefit from assistance in dealing with their monthly bills and reconciling medical insurance benefits.