As our population ages, more and more attention is being paid to elder law. Chicago area seniors and their families are seeking out these specialty lawyers and have come to rely on their expertise to guide them through all of the new experiences that come with aging, to help them plan for their golden years and to ensure their last wishes are honored.
But what is this fast-growing field of law, and do you really need a lawyer concentrating in elder law in Chicago?
What Is Elder Law?
Broadly, elder law is a legal practice that specializes in issues affecting older adults. The attorneys who specialize in elder law in Chicago help their clients plan for the future by developing legal solutions to financial, healthcare, relational and transactional needs. Almost any legal issue can fall under the scope of elder law, but firms that practice elder law in Chicago and elsewhere usually have strong experience in estate planning, long-term care planning and advance directives, wills, trusts, probate, guardianships, retirement planning, Medicare, Medicaid and other entitlement programs and many other issues that affect seniors like Alzheimer’s and dementia, long-term disability, age discrimination and tax planning.
They can also advocate for seniors in tenant/landlord relations, nursing home disputes, in cases of elder abuse or neglect, and represent them in all legal matters, including litigation.
A Team Approach To Elder Law In Chicago
Elder law encompasses so many topics, it’s nearly impossible to find one lawyer who is an expert in every situation. More likely, you will find firms of elder law attorneys like Peck Ritchey. Our firm practices elder law in Chicago and we have many qualified attorneys who have each practiced in a few specific areas. This allows us to offer many services to our clients from lawyers who have dedicated an enormous amount of time to very specific areas of expertise.
Additionally, elder law lawyers work closely with their senior clients and their family members to develop legal solutions that meet the clients’ needs. There is never a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a team effort between the client, his family and the attorney to come to the best solution.
The Big Picture
A good elder law lawyer will be interested in the big picture of their clients’ lives. They will take into account the client’s finances, health and familial support to develop solutions that will provide a high quality of life for the rest of their clients’ lives.
Not only that, these attorneys often have access to resources for the elderly and can help them find programs and support services that they need, such as home healthcare providers, assisted living facilities or nursing homes, and even local senior services.
When To Hire A Firm That Concentrates In Elder Law In Chicago
Hiring an elder law lawyer or firm is a good idea for any older adult who wants to plan ahead for his golden years by developing an estate plan or designing a healthcare directive. If your will needs updating or you want to protect your heirs from having to go through probate, an elder law firm can help.
In addition to planning services, a firm can help if you are having problems obtaining Medicare, Medicaid or Social Security benefits.
If you suspect your elderly parents have been neglected by their caregivers or have been a victim of fraud, elder care lawyers can help you protect your parents’ rights and if your parents are no longer able to care for themselves, an elder care lawyer can help you obtain a guardianship.
If you’re in need of a firm that practices elder law in Chicago, contact the attorneys at Peck Ritchey, LLC. We provide litigation and transactional services for seniors covering all aspects of elder law in Chicago.