Elder Care Lawyer Necessary?
Greetings:
I have a cousin whose husband passed a few years back, with or from Frontotemporal dementia (FTD). My husband has FTD. My cousin said if I get legal assistance regarding my husband's future care, it should absolutely be an Elder Care lawyer, as a specialty.
Does anyone have experience with this? Thanks in advance.
Judi
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Planning for estate matters such as healthcare poa, durable poa, advance medical directive, etc. is vital with all seniors, but especially true if one party has a debilitating illness. There are legal ways to structure income and assets that might provide protection in case long term care is required. And to ensure one party has the legal authority to act for the other if needed. It’s best to get documents signed while both parties are competent.
I would also consult with a family law attorney to find out your rights and responsibilities under marital law. You might find both types of attorneys in one firm.
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5 ReactionsWe found it hard to find an Elder Care lawyer here. It is quite specialized so call around to see if there is one near you. They can ensure you have a durable power of attorney - durable means that it stays in effect if your partner becomes incapacitated. We included both myself and our son to independently have power of attorney. We also had them create a very detailed Health Care Directive as husband had very specific wishes and a document allowing our son to be paid an hourly wage if he had to fill in as power of attorney...since he works more than fulltime.
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4 ReactionsAre you in the US? Near any cities? I’m sorry you’re having trouble finding an Elder Law attorney. They are highly visible in my state. With your situation, advice from someone who is highly trained in estate planning, potentially Special Needs Trust, asset protection, is crucial. These matters go further than getting Powers of Attorney, although those are important too. If you’d like, please PM and I’ll try to suggest some ways to get more information on it.
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2 ReactionsThanks, I did see one E.C. lawyer listed in our town as a specialty.
Take care. 🌼🌺🌻
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1 ReactionThanks...we were able to get an Elder care lawyer but it took about 17 phone calls. Several people advertised as elder care on their web sites but when called, could not do the work. We found one that was too busy to work with us for about 6 months...and finally found one who could start the paperwork.
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2 ReactionsWow, that’s incredible. Good for you!
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