What Does a Florida Elder Law Attorney Do?
Data from the US Census Bureau reveals two very important demographic trends that adults of all ages should note over the next couple decades. The year 2030 marks the first time in our nation’s history that older individuals will outnumber individuals under the age of 18, and by 2035 there will be 78 million Americans aged 65 years and older living in the US. The increase is due in part to Baby Boomers aging, but also because of advances in medicine that allow individuals to live longer, healthier lives.
If you’re among the 1 in 5 Americans that will be of retirement age in the coming years, there’s a good chance you’ll need assistance in a wide array of legal topics. Therefore, it’s important to understand what a Florida elder law attorney does on a regular basis.
Explain the Importance of Wills and Estate Planning: You probably already know that executing a will is crucial, but there are strict rules to ensure that it’s valid under Florida law. Plus, you might want to consider additional estate planning structures, such as a trust, special needs trust, or tax planning arrangements.
Assist with Health Care Planning: When you want to make the most of your Medicare benefits and learn about long term care options, a lawyer who focuses on elder law can provide the details you need to make informed decisions. You can also discuss a health care power of attorney, in which you appoint an agent to make medical decisions if you’re unable because of incapacity or disability. Without a power of attorney, someone will need to get permission from a court to act on your behalf, and guardianship proceedings can be quite costly.
Describe Options for Financial Matters: It’s important to create a durable power of attorney so that you can provide a trusted loved one to handle your financial affairs in the event that you cannot. As with your medical care, a guardianship proceeding would otherwise be necessary to have someone manage your real estate and personal property.
In addition, because the costs of assisted living is considerable and on the rise, you may need assistance with managing financial matters in retirement. You can also benefit from learning more about planning for income, estate, and gift tax advantages.
Advice on Living Wills: A living will is a way of stating your wishes regarding artificial life support when you cannot express your intentions. Typically, it covers two different scenarios:
- Starting life support as necessary to save your life; or,
- Stopping life support when it’s obvious – from a medical standpoint – that you won’t recover from some medical condition.
Set Up a Consultation with a Florida Elder Law Attorney Today
For more information on how an elder law professional can advise you on various different legal issues, please contact the Dade City estate planning lawyers at the Law Office of Laurie R. Chane. We’re happy to explain more about our legal services for clients throughout Pasco County. You can schedule a consultation by calling 352-567-0055 or filling out an online contact form.
Resource:
census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2018/cb18-41-population-projections.html
https://www.chanelaw.com/tips-on-choosing-a-nursing-home-in-florida/
