Dedicated Elder Law Services
You will rarely find in any code of laws a section marked “elder law.” That’s because elder law isn’t one legal code, but a wider approach to the legal issues facing the elder community. There are gaps in the law, that a retired person can fall into easily without the assistance of a diligent attorney.
At the law firm of Allender & Allender, our attorneys help families and individuals with the elder law issues that they will eventually face. We welcome the opportunity to do the same for you or someone you love.
What Is Elder Law?
The term “elder law” encompasses a wide range of legal practice areas, including:
- Estate planning
- Asset preservation
- Medicaid planning
- Nursing home planning
In many cases, we work as legal quarterbacks, managing the interactions of the laws that will govern your retirement. We’re diligent and dedicated to you. However, our true value comes from our understanding of the law and how to get you the help you deserve.
Planning For The Future
In essence, elder law is about planning ahead to make sure you or a loved one can remain independent for as long as possible. Our lawyers employ various tools and practices that are designed to protect your assets against the high cost of long-term care, and to help ensure that you will be well cared for should you ever become incapacitated.
Perhaps the biggest benefit of using elder law tools is the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are prepared for anything the future may hold.
Frequently Asked Questions On Elder Law
In Central Florida, elder law attorneys help seniors and their families with the legal complexities, helping ensure their well-being and financial security. Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about elder law.
How can an elder law attorney assist with Medicaid planning?
Medicaid helps cover long-term care costs, but qualifying can be challenging due to strict income and asset limits. An elder law attorney assists clients to qualify without spending all their savings using legal strategies like:
- Medicaid-compliant annuities
- Irrevocable trusts
- Proper asset transfers
Without proper planning, individuals may be forced to pay out-of-pocket for care, quickly depleting their assets. An attorney helps ensure the application process is handled correctly while protecting a family’s financial future.
What is the difference between a living will and a health care surrogate designation?
A living will is a legal document that outlines your wishes for end-of-life medical care if you become incapacitated, including preferences for life-prolonging treatments.
On the other hand, a health care surrogate designation appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so.
Both documents work together so that your health care preferences are followed and that someone you trust can advocate for your medical needs.
What should I do if I suspect elder abuse or neglect?
Elder abuse can include physical, emotional or financial harm. If you suspect abuse in Central Florida, report it immediately to the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE.
Warning signs include:
- Unexplained injuries
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Unusual financial transactions
You should also consult an elder law attorney to explore legal actions against caregivers, nursing homes or other responsible parties.
What is the process for obtaining guardianship over a loved one?
Guardianship is a legal process in which the court appoints someone to make a decision for an incapacitated individual.
The process includes filing a petition, a medical evaluation and a court hearing. Because guardianship can remove an individual’s rights, consult an elder law attorney to explore all available options.
Contact Us To Learn More
To learn more about how our elder law practice can help benefit you or a loved one, schedule a time to speak with our attorneys. Call us at 321-529-2448. You may also contact us online, and we will respond to your message promptly. With offices in Titusville, Cocoa Beach and Oviedo, we serve clients across central Florida.