Peck Ritchey, LLC > Special Needs Planning > Disabled Adult Planning

Chicago Disabled Adult Planning Attorneys

Individuals over the age of 18 are legally able to make important decisions for themselves about finances, health, and housing options. It is assumed these adults are competent and capable of making these decisions. However, in the instances of some special needs adults, this may not be the case. Many special needs adults require guidance from parents or other individuals, or require financial support.

There are several options available if you have a special needs adult in your family who requires assistance or protection. Our Chicago special needs planning attorneys at Peck Ritchey, LLC, can help you develop an appropriate legal plan for your disabled family member’s future.

Special Needs Plans for Adults

Some individuals need special plans in order to ensure that they are taken care of in their day-to-day lives. A special needs plan for an adult might include:

  • Legal Guardianship—Becoming your family member’s legal guardian may be an option if your family member is medically unable to make decisions for him or herself. Legally, if your family member is over 18, you cannot make decisions for him or her without being appointed a legal guardian. This includes decisions involving medical treatment, public benefits, or finances. Seeking legal assistance to begin the legal guardianship process for a special needs adult should begin before the individual’s eighteenth birthday. The guardian is usually a parent, adult sibling, or other family member. If there are no family members who can serve as a guardian, the court may appoint a guardian.
  • Special Needs Trusts—Not all special needs people are unable to make competent decisions on their own. If legal guardianship is not an appropriate measure, other options are available to support your family. One such option is a Special Needs Trust. This type of trust provides a special needs individual with additional funds not covered by public benefits, without affecting one’s eligibility for public benefits. The trustee can distribute funds to the beneficiary without impacting the beneficiary’s ability to collect Social Security, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income.

Planning for a special needs adult comes with challenges. Consulting with a special needs planning attorney as your prepare for your family member to become an adult can make a big difference in his or her life.

Consult with a Chicago Special Needs Planning Attorney

At Peck Ritchey, LLC, we make use of asset planning, trusts, and other legal options to protect your family and ensure your special needs family member has the fullest life possible. To speak with a Chicago special needs planning attorney, call our office at (312) 201-0900 today.

Testimonials

Attorney Kyle Fahey handled our matter with skill and professionalism, and was always responsive. 10/10, would work with him and the firm again.

–Jon T.

The peace of mind that Peck Ricthey's office has given me is worth every penny. The services they provided me and my family in an emergency medical situation is beyond outstanding. Last minute notice, Peter Brady and team were compassionate, understanding and most importantly efficient and got the job done. Look no further if you have any needs that this office can provide for you. Definitely in good hands! Thank you, a thousand times over for all of your help.

–Christine K.

Very responsive and knowledgeable at handling our brother’s estate. Would definitely recommend!

–Ralph C.

I solicited Peck Ritchey, LLC for assistance with a living trust for which I became the beneficiary. I needed assistance with understanding the details of how it all worked. However, I was especially concerned because there were threats of allegations made by family members and a lawsuit was filed against me. I needed a solid professional who had my best interests in mind. Peter Brady took my case and he managed it flawlessly. He explained everything in a way I could understand, he knew the law inside and out, he was always available to answer questions, and even offer support when things seemed like they could become extremely problematic. In addition to this, he had a plan. He navigated the course as if he already knew the next move by the opposing attorney. He made me feel like everything was in control and that’s because he knew exactly what he was doing and he consulted with me about everything. We ended up settling out of court and ultimately the court officially dismissed the lawsuit. I honestly believe if it wasn’t for Peter and his expertise this could have gone in an entirely different direction. Peter did a stellar job and I couldn’t be more pleased and impressed with his performance.

–John T.

Tim Ritchey is as smart, honest, and genuine as they come. He truly puts helping people above making money. If you have a need, don’t hesitate to hire him.

–Jay T.

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