There are four law schools in the Twin Cities area. This means there are approximately 1,200 new lawyers graduating each year. With the economy as it is today, these new lawyers — as well as more seasoned lawyers — are finding jobs hard to find. Choosing a good Elder Law attorney in these times is no easy task.
The area of Elder Law encompasses a number of different areas of the law, as well as some non-legal decisions, many of which are interdependent upon each other. Issues arise with real estate, estate planning and estate taxes, disability planning, income and capital gains taxes, caregiver issues, trusts, long-term care insurance issues, age discrimination, short- and long-term disability, hospice care, contracts with caregivers, assisted living facilities, family members, housing options, medical insurance issues, Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and Veterans’ benefits — both State and Federal — and a myriad of other related health care issues, including how to organize the family to maintain and oversee good care for the elder.
Why Choosing an Experienced Elder Law Attorney Matters
Since the area of Elder Law is complex, choosing an Elder Law attorney who practices and has substantial experience in the Elder Law arena will help you address all the concerns that can impact an elder’s quality of life. Here are some suggestions to help you choose the right law firm and attorney for your needs.
What to Look for in an Elder Law Attorney
• Make sure that the attorney practices Elder Law.
An estate planning attorney traditionally deals with how to distribute your wealth after you have passed away. An Elder Law attorney works in the area from retirement or disability to the end of life and beyond. Minnesota does not have a specific specialty for the practice of Elder Law. Consequently, it is important that you research the background of the attorney.
The National Elder Law Foundation certifies Elder Law specialists in the United States. This certification doesn’t guarantee that one lawyer will serve you better than another, but it may be a good place to start. Be mindful of the certification, though — it is national, and Elder Law is often very state-specific. National certification cannot address all the nuances of each state’s laws.
• Friends and other professionals are a very good source of information.
Tap into these resources and find out who they recommend. If the same attorney’s name comes up from different sources, chances are the attorney knows what he or she is doing.
• Review the attorney’s website and background.
Visit the law firm’s website and read the information about the attorney. There you may find additional details about how long the attorney has practiced in the Elder Law area, what roles the attorney has had in the elder bar, and whether the attorney participates in other organizations that work in this area.
You might also learn whether the attorney has had personal experience caring for a family member. Consider how the attorney gives back to the community. Finally, find out how much of the attorney’s time is devoted to Elder Law. Is it the primary focus of the firm, or is Elder Law just a minor part of its practice?
Plan Ahead: Find the Right Elder Law Attorney Before a Crisis
Finding a trusted elder law attorney before a crisis strikes gives you and your family peace of mind and the ability to make thoughtful, informed decisions. Early planning not only protects your legal and financial interests but also ensures that your wishes are honored and your future is secure. At Maser, Amundson & Boggio, we are dedicated to helping you navigate these important choices with experience, care, and compassion. Take the time now to find the right advocate — it’s one of the most important steps you can take for your long-term well-being.