There are many legal issues that may arise when you age, whether you are worried about your own health or the well-being of a loved one. These concerns often include health care, Medicare/Medicaid, and Social Security benefits. Estate planning is another area. An experienced Long Island elder lawyer can provide the support and advice you require and will be able to assist you in many important matters.
It is important to research the background of any lawyer before you hire them. This will allow you to determine if the lawyer has the right experience and if it is right for your case. Ask potential attorneys to share their experiences in the area that you are interested in and ensure they have extensive experience with similar cases.
Referring to friends, family, and other professionals is a great idea. You can ask them if they have any recommendations.
A financial planner or accountant may recommend you. These professionals might have connections to elder lawyers who are experts in a specific financial area or who specialize on estate and asset protection planning.
They will also be able to point you in the right direction for information on long-term care and aging. They can also help you find the right person to contact if your loved ones has suffered elder abuse or been neglected by caregivers.
After you have compiled a list, set up an appointment. This will enable you to discuss your needs and get to know the personalities and styles of potential attorneys.
The attorney will likely ask you to fill out a questionnaire (or a waiver of rights) that details your financial information and medical history. This will allow the attorney to get as much information as possible about you so they can recommend the best planning strategy.
Based on the answers to the questionnaire, you can choose the best lawyer for your needs. After the attorney has reviewed your case, he/she will likely suggest a plan of attack and then quote you for the work.
This billing is usually done on a flat-rate basis, rather than hourly. This billing method is transparent and allows for the attorney to directly communicate with clients about their costs.
An elder law attorney can help you plan for your future and ensure that your wishes are respected when it comes time to die. You can also apply for Medicaid and other government benefits. This will allow you to get the help you need without losing your hard-earned assets.