Phoenix Elder Law Attorneys
Elder Law Basics in Arizona
Phoenix elder law attorneys are skilled at issues related to the elderly. However, it’s never too early to begin thinking about the concerns that will inevitably come with old age. Elder law lawyers will be able to assist clients with issues like long-term care, in addition to other traditional estate planning tools. Additionally, Phoenix elder law attorneys understand public benefit programs like Medicaid, Social Security and Medicare. They are also adept at tax issues that my surface as a result of asset transfers. So, in short, elder law specialists do far more than simply create wills and trusts. What do Elder Law Attorneys do? Phoenix elder law attorneys will deal in the three areas comprising elder law in general: estate planning with related taxes, long-term care (including disability and Medicare) as well as assigning conservatorship, fiduciary administration and guardianship. Estate planning involves many tools. A Phoenix elder law lawyer will be well versed in the use of these tools, which may include wills, trusts, a variety of property ownership structures, powers of attorney and gifting. Long-Term Care Long-term care broadly includes a variety of medical care programs for individuals who suffer from a disability or chronic illness. Personal and health needs are met with long-term care. Help with daily living, such as using the bathroom and dressing, is a basic benefit of this type of care. It can be provided in a nursing home or in the individual’s home. Long-term care may also be found in assisted living settings. Guardians and Conservators The application of elder law often includes guardianship. Phoenix elder law attorneys help individuals make good decisions, and this is increasingly true in the area of appointing guardianship. In general, guardianship lets a person manage the affairs of another individual who is incapable of doing so on their own. It is important to meet with a Phoenix elder law lawyer because you obviously need to choose your guardian in advance. Otherwise, the court may be forced to appoint a guardian for you. In addition to guardianship, Phoenix elder law lawyers will help you designate a conservator. Conservatorship allows financial decisions to be made on an individual’s behalf by another appointed individual. This becomes effective if you are unable to make these decisions on your own. For example, this may be the case if you are debilitated in an accident, or if you are in the grip of a terminal disease. It is not uncommon for the conservator to periodically make court reports, also making petitions to the court for special authority under various circumstances. The conservator may make attorney fees, in addition to being paid for the basic services they provide. This can become a complex area; Phoenix elder law attorneys will be able to provide you with the information you need to make conservator and guardianship decisions based upon your unique estate planning needs. The Importance of Elder Law Elder law in Arizona is best handled by an attorney familiar with the states unique requirement. These laws are sometimes confusing, and they are best handled by someone with experience. Indeed, without proper estate planning, it is conceivable that a substantial portion of your assets could be absorbed by estate taxes, in addition to probate fees. Phoenix elder law lawyers can likely help you avoid this, saving thousands of dollars for your heirs.
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