November 25, 2016 | lmsXpect3 The area of elder law is a complex and often unrecognized one, yet it is an area of law that is extremely important to the future health care and financial stability of Washington’s aging residents. Elder law covers topics such as long-term care assistance, Medicare and Medicaid, medical and mental health issues, estate planning, wills, probate, guardianships, and powers of attorney. At one point in an individual’s life, they will need to deal with one or more of the aforementioned topics, and because of the legal complexities of each topic, it would be in their best interests to work with an experienced Renton elder law attorney. Elder Law Attorneys Specialize in the Needs of Washington’s Aging Population An elderly person’s needs are vastly different than those of a younger person, and an elder law attorney is often more equipped to handle those needs – no matter how challenging – than an attorney who does not specialize in elder law. Not only is a Renton elder law attorney able to assist individuals with their financial and estate planning needs, but also, they are equipped to take care of the day-to-day issues that affect the care of seniors, such as assisted living, Medicaid benefits, and long-term care planning. Furthermore, elder law lawyers have extensive experience in advocating on behalf of senior individuals who are abused, taken advantage of, or otherwise mistreated in any way recognized under Chapter 74.34 RCW. When to Work With an Elder Law Attorney If you are involved in, or going to be involved in, any of the following activities, we recommend consulting with an experienced elder law attorney beforehand: Estate planning, including but not limited to drafting your will, planning for a minor or adult with special needs, and probate; Creation of a durable power of attorney; Health care planning, including long-term care planning; Financial planning, including the appointment of a financial proxy, income and estate planning, and estate tax matters; Guardianship, including the selection and appointment of a legal guardian; Nursing home abuse matters; and Drafting a living will or any other advance directives. While there are some instances in which you must work with an attorney – such as during probate or establishing guardianship – there are others in which working with an attorney is not necessary. However, that does not mean that it is recommended. An elder law attorney understands the unique challenges of Washington elder law, and can work swiftly and diligently to overcome those challenges so that you may accomplish your future-planning goals in an efficient and time-effective manner. Consult a Renton Elder Law Attorney At the Law Offices of Dan Kellogg, our Renton elder law attorneys are here to ensure that you make the best decisions for your future. Aging comes with a unique set of complexities, many of which must be handled with care and diligence. Our elder law attorneys can tackle any challenges that stand in your way of a comfortable future, and will work with you and your family to get your affairs in order before it is too late to do so. If you want to ensure that everything is in order where your future is concerned, contact our team today to schedule a private consultation. Call us today (425) 227-8700.