Elder Care Law
Elder care law is the practice of law that specializes in the needs of the senior community. Elder care law attorneys take pride in understanding the community as well as the particular difficulties that arise throughout the aging process.
Currently, adults over 60 make up 24% of Florida’s population and this number is expected to increase. To serve this population, the Department of Elder Affairs works hard to publicize issues that affect older adults. Similarly, Tampa elder care law attorneys aim to assist older adults as they transition into this new stage in their life.
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What Does an Elder Care Law Attorney Do?
An elder care law attorney provides legal services that are focused on the needs of the senior community. From healthcare and family planning to retirement planning, elder care law attorneys are adept at problem-solving and providing solutions.
As we age, we must face the fact that our bodies and minds are not what they once were. In order to preserve our resources and create legal documentation that best serves our families, a Tampa elder care law attorney can assist with planning for the future. The main goal of a Tampa elder care law attorney is to work with clients to plan for aging and the possibility of illness or incapacity.
For those who do not have a plan in place when care is needed, an elder care law attorney can help family members as they work through the process of estate planning and providing care for an elderly parent or spouse.
Some people don’t like thinking about the future or never realized they should plan for their future care. In those cases, the responsibility of estate and health planning falls on family members. A skilled elder care law attorney can be a valuable resource in this situation. Their expertise can help family members communicate as they delve through what can be a confusing, stressful time.
Elder Care Law Services
An elder care law attorney can guide you through the planning process so you can be sure you or your loved one are covered when you need it. In order to serve the senior community, elder care law attorneys assist with:
- Powers of attorney
- Living wills
- Health care directives
- Wills
- Lifetime planning
- Financial planning
- Estate planning
- Asset protection
- Applying for public benefits
- Guardianship matters
- Claims against nursing homes or assisted living facilities
- Retirement
- Age or disability discrimination
- Trust planning
- Probate
- Planning for minor children
- Planning for adult special needs children
Health and asset planning can grant peace of mind throughout the aging process. Knowing that you will be taken care of or that your family will be taken care of can reduce stress and worry and allow you to focus on enjoying life.
Selecting an Elder Care Law Attorney
Selecting the right elder care law attorney for you and your family doesn’t have to be an additional burden. By asking the right questions, you can find a lawyer who understands what your family needs and be secure in your decision.
When you sit down to discuss the future with an elder care law attorney, be sure to ask some of the following questions:
- How long have you been practicing elder care law?
What professional organizations are you a part of?
How much of your practice is focused on elder care law?
Do you specialize is any particular aspects of elder care law?
Have you previously worked with (insert your concern here) before?
What was the outcome of those cases?
What is your timeframe?
As you ask your questions, consider how the attorney answers. Do you feel you are being listened to and respected? Do you feel like you can work together on your particular issue towards a desirable outcome?
Trust is an important part of a lawyer-client relationship. While it can be hard to pinpoint, most of us have an instinctual feeling when we meet someone. As you meet with an attorney, consider whether you trust them. Do they speak to you rather than at you? Do they make eye contact? All of these can be important indicators of an honest attorney that does their best to treat their clients like a partner in the process.
Consulting With an Elder Care Law Attorney
The best time to plan for the future is now. If you would like to create a will, plan for future healthcare, or discuss other future planning with a well-trained Tampa elder care law attorney, make an appointment today. Create a list of your concerns and what you would like to accomplish so he or she will be able to address all your questions.
A Tampa elder care law attorney can provide compassionate legal services to help make planning for the future less stressful. Thanks to their expertise, they can provide valuable information to protect the senior community as they enjoy their golden years.
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