Dealing with elder law issues can be a confusing, time-consuming, and stressful experience, not to mention the high emotional cost.
Every year, millions of senior citizens become confused about property inheritance and distribution, healthcare benefits, tax liability, and other legal issues related to aging.
Our knowledgeable Adams County elder law attorney is available to help you tackle the legal challenges of aging in Washington County. They will carefully analyze your exact situation, advise on potential courses of action, and assist you in putting your plans into action. For legal advice, contact McBurney Law firm now!
Why Do I Need an Adams County Elder Law Attorney?
Elder law is a broad term that encompasses so many different things. It includes estate planning, Medicaid applications, special needs trusts, and other essential legal services. But the fact is, these services can be confusing and overwhelming for the everyday consumer, which is why having someone on your side with experience in elder law helps.
Not only does an elder law lawyer help keep you informed of all your options when it comes to any legal matter affecting your life in the later years, but they also help ensure that your best interests are prioritized during the entire process. An Adams County elder law attorney is an invaluable aid for anyone who wants to do everything within their power to protect themselves from an uncertain future without any unnecessary risks or concerns.
What Makes for a Good Adams County Elder Law Lawyer?
You might be wondering what makes a skilled Adams County elder law lawyer. You’re not alone—many people ask themselves or their friends and family what the qualifications of an elder law attorney are.
Here’s a list of the most critical qualities to look for:
- Experience: While many people know that specific jobs require a certain amount of experience to be considered qualified, it’s especially true with lawyers. You can’t expect to get the right kind of help if you’re dealing with something as complicated as estate planning, guardianship, or Medicaid applications without using someone who has handled these cases multiple times before.
- Education: Most attorneys who practice elder law have at least one specialty area. Ensure they’ve got additional degrees in the type of law they’re practicing, so they can get you the best possible help.
- Positive Feedback: It’s always a good idea when asking about attorneys to find out why clients like them so much. You don’t want to ask strangers alone. Check online reviews and speak to people who have previously hired them for cases similar to yours.
- Able to Handle Your Needs: Whether it’s because of age, physical limitations, or disabilities, you may need to hire a lawyer who understands that you or your loved one have special needs. A competent Washington elder law attorney will make sure to work with you in a way that is sensitive to your circumstances.
Here at McBurney Law Firm, we have all these qualities and more! We know that at times like these, there is no room for mistakes—and this is when we enter to act as an advocate for you. Contact us today if you’d like more information about our firm or if you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our well-respected attorneys. We’ll be waiting for your call!
What is Elder Law in Washington?
Elder law is the legal practice of counseling and representing older persons, their representatives, and their families regarding the legal aspects of:
- Estate planning,
- Health and long-term care planning,
- Public benefits,
- Surrogate decision-making,
- Capacity,
- Conservation,
- Disposition, and
- Administration of older persons’ estates, and
- Implementation of their decisions regarding such matters.
An elder law attorney can include the action’s tax ramifications and the requirement for more complex tax, health care, public benefits, and estate planning knowledge. Elder law lawyers in Washington comprehend and identify concerns that arise during counseling and representation of elderly and incapacitated adults, or their agents, in matters involving:
- Elder abuse,
- Neglect,
- Exploitation,
- Insurance,
- Housing,
- Long-term care,
- Employment, and
- Retirement.
Elder Law Covers a Wide Range of Legal Practices
We have to make immense judgments as we age. These challenging choices include where to live, how to receive treatment, and what will ultimately occur. Important legal considerations are involved in several of these issues.
There are numerous specific fields in this area of law. Undoubtedly, you’ve heard of some of them:
- Criminal law (abuse, fraud, scams, etc.): Criminal law refers to the rules that define what conduct constitutes a crime and how the government may prosecute those who commit crimes. The federal, state, and local governments all have penal codes that detail the specific crimes they prohibit and the possible punishments for offenders. Failing federal, state and local laws may be subject to fines, probation, or imprisonment. Prosecuting attorneys initiate legal proceedings against criminals on behalf of the government to enforce the law.
- Corporate law (nursing home issues, etc.): Corporate law encompasses all legal issues corporations may encounter. Corporations are subject to numerous regulations that they must adhere to receive tax and other benefits. Most states require corporations to hold annual shareholder meetings, and many require more frequent meetings of the board of directors and officers. Most corporations have attorneys at these meetings to ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations.
- Family law (guardianships and disputes, etc.): Family law focuses on issues about family relationships, including marriage, adoption, divorce, and child custody, among others. Family law attorneys can represent their clients in court proceedings and negotiations. In addition, they can draft important legal documents such as court petitions and property agreements.
- Tax law (avoid tax penalties, estate tax, prepare for probate, etc.): Tax law consists of the “rules” that govern how much the state, local, and federal governments can charge you in annual taxes. It also covers the procedures, policies, and penalties for all tax-related matters.
- Estate planning (retirement plan, prepare advance health care directives, etc.): The essence of estate planning is determining what will happen to one’s property after death. In addition to deciding who should inherit your property, estate planning can also involve decisions regarding your minor children and their property, your taxes, avoiding probate, your health care during your lifetime, and what happens to your body after you pass away.
An Adams County, WA, elder law lawyer is there to counsel, organize, and fight for the rights of their clients. They have also trusted sources of guidance due to their familiarity with difficulties affecting older adults and their background in dealing with delicate subjects.
Contact our Adams County Elder Law Attorney Now!
Coping with the complexity of legal paperwork can be a stressful and lonely experience, especially when you are going through a difficult time or feeling vulnerable.
Our dependable Adams County elder law lawyer in McBurney Law Office will help you make sense of the process. We’ll guide you through what might seem to be an overwhelming amount of legal jargon, paperwork, and details.
We will work hard for you, saving you time, stress, and money. We have extensive experience in elder law issues and have helped many people navigate the legal and financial choices they face after a loved one has a severe accident or illness. Call us now or contact us online!
