BackFinding An Elder Law Attorney
Article submitted by Bill Beyers an attorney in Loveland, CO.
He can be reached at 970-669-1101 or by e-mail: bbeyers@qwest.net
What is the practice of elder law?
The practice of elder law is generally defined by the clients served-seniors-rather than a specific area of law. An elder law
practice usually encompasses a number of practice areas. At a minimum, an elder law attorney should be experienced with general
estate planning matters (wills, trusts and probate), planning for incapacity (guardianships, conservatorships and the use of advance
directives) and be familiar with public benefits programs available to seniors, specifically Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.
Many elder law attorneys also deal with nursing home rights and procedures, long-term care placement and the use of long-term care
insurance, elder abuse and fraud and housing issues. It is important that an elder law attorney at least recognize and have some
understanding of the many different laws that may have an impact on a given situation. In addition, many legal problems commonly
encountered by seniors are also concerns for the disabled, notably the need for guardians and/or conservators, long-term care
placement issues and the availability of public benefits. Accordingly, many elder law attorneys regularly deal with younger disabled
individuals and their families as part of their practice.
How do I find an elder law attorney?
Ask others in the community who regularly deal with seniors for recommendations. This can include clergy, social workers at
hospitals and nursing homes, financial advisors or friends who have experienced similar situations. You can also check the website
for the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), www.naela.org, to
locate a NAELA attorney in your area. The NAELA website contains a list of questions consumers should ask a prospective attorney.
While most elder law attorney focus their practice in a handful of the areas listed above, some may specialize in only one or two
areas. So, make sure the attorney you choose regularly practices in your particular area of concern. Be aware that the field of
elder law is relatively new and some attorneys who bill themselves as elder law attorneys may have little experience in the field.