Elder Law Attorney

Elder law attorneys can help you maintain control over your life and finances. You want to provide for your family and the causes you care about after you pass away. Older clients have one thing in common with all of our other clients – they need an attorney they can trust.

Stephenson Rife works with older and disabled Indiana residents on a wide variety of legal issues and estate planning needs. No matter our age or ability level, we all want a say in how we live our lives. That’s much easier when you’re young and healthy. When you’re older, you need to do some planning and execute critical legal documents to put in place required safeguards.

What an Elder Law Lawyer Can Do for You

Some of the services our elder law lawyers provide include:

• Estate planning, including the creation of wills, powers of attorney, and trusts
• Healthcare and Medicaid planning, including long-term care options, patient rights, and Medicare
• Help with selecting and appointing a legal guardian.

Estate planning is vital for people of all ages, but especially for older clients. This area of law revolves around several legal documents, but what’s most important is a serious, honest conversation with a Shelbyville elder law attorney about the client’s wants and needs. We will treat you with respect and take steps to protect your rights and put your desires into action.

Estate Services Our Elder Law Attorneys Provide

Wills and Trusts

You may not have estate planning documents, or those you do have may be outdated. Without a will, your assets will go to your next of kin. If you want your wealth to benefit others, including charities, a will can accomplish that goal. Another option is a trust, where your money and assets can be set aside to help others.

Powers of Attorney

Powers of attorney allow you to give another the ability to make crucial decisions for you. If you’re unable to speak for yourself, someone you trust can make healthcare decisions for you. If you want to delegate financial decisions to someone, that can also be accomplished through a power of attorney. If you become incapacitated, these documents can be critical to your physical and financial well-being. They could also help you avoid the need for appointing a guardian.

Guardian of Your Estate

If someone needs a guardian because a loved one can no longer manage his or her affairs, we will work with that person and their family to have the right person appointed as a legal guardian. We also work with those who believe the wrong guardian has been proposed, to make sure the rights and interests of the individual will be protected.

Elder Law and Your Health Care Needs

Medicare won’t pay for long-term care, but Medicaid will for those of limited income and assets. By planning ahead and adequately structuring your wealth, you may be able to receive Medicaid while still benefitting from your assets.

Our team of elder law attorneys can provide legal representation when health care providers cause injury. If you or a loved one is in a nursing home or assisted living facility and has been harmed by medical malpractice, contact us and we will protect your legal rights. Our team will seek the compensation you deserve.