By Attorney Tammy A. Weber, CELA*
The short answer is yes. Life is unpredictable. Mortality is something with which we will all grapple at some point in life. Not everyone will need to avail themselves of a divorce attorney or a litigator, but everyone has loved ones and assets that they want to protect. That’s why consulting an Elder Law Attorney is not a matter of if, but when.
When Crisis Hits
Few things are worse in life than an unexpected crisis. But beyond the emotional turmoil, such challenges can have significant legal and financial implications. Luckily, with a little planning, the worst of them can be avoided. Documents such as a Financial Power of Attorney or a Health Care Power of Attorney with an advance directive included are just two documents that if in place, could dramatically lessen the stress on your family members, should an emergency arise.
Comprehensive Planning Services
In addition to solving problems in a crisis, an Elder Law Attorney can also help you preemptively plan for the care and management of your assets through several tools such as long-term care planning, asset protection using various types of trusts, and more.
Understanding and planning for long-term care costs is crucial, especially considering how high those costs can be. Did you know that the average cost of long-term care in Pennsylvania can exceed $12,500 per month? Luckily there are ways that you can protect your hard-earned savings, but you can’t do it alone.
Another reason to consider working with an Elder Law Attorney is just how complex the rules around Medicaid can be. It can be useful to have someone navigate not only the application process but your assets from the government. Applying for Medicaid is not for do-it-yourselfers.
The final reason that you should consider working with an Elder Law Attorney is their skill with comprehensive Estate Planning. An Estate Plan is not only about protecting your assets, but it can be useful for protecting and providing for your family in the future.
Elder Law and Your Unique Circumstances
Every individual’s situation is unique which is why personalized advice is key. Whether you’re concerned about asset protection, caring for a spouse, or leaving a legacy for your loved ones, an Elder Law Attorney can provide more individualized support than any kind of DIY will or online service. There’s nothing that can replace having a person in front of you, answering your questions and guiding you through the process.
Whether you’re actively planning for the future or facing immediate elder law issues, the expertise of an Elder Law Attorney is invaluable.
Tammy A. Weber is a Certified Elder Law Attorney and the Managing Attorney of the law firm of Marshall, Parker & Weber, LLC with offices in Williamsport, Jersey Shore, and Plains. For more information visit www.paelderlaw.com or call 1-800-401-4552.
