Elder Attorneys Work Closely With State Agencies To Protect Aging Clients

Protecting the rights, health and well-being of elderly members of society is an issue that can quickly turn into a real problem in today's society because so many people are living longer lives. In many cases, family members and friends are able to provide protection for the elderly, but it's not always the case and in some situations, the caregivers themselves may become abusers.

Elder Attorneys Help Protect The Elderly

Fortunately, many states have put statutes in place that specifically address these issues. When this doesn't happen or when loved ones need legal assistance, lawyers specializing in handling cases involving the abuse, neglect or restriction of freedom of older individuals are often consulted. These attorneys have devoted their time to understanding and applying elder law to the benefit of their clients. In order to do this, they work closely with local and state agencies that focus on senior care and support.

Working Closely With States' Departments Of Aging

Elder attorneys frequently consult and work closely with representatives from the State Department of Aging or similar organizations. They may ask that a case worker be assigned to an individual they are representing and about whom they are concerned. In addition to case workers, state agencies may also provide services such as Adult Day Care, home safety checks, socialization programs and respite for family members caring for older parents and grandparents.

Advising Older Clients About Their Care Options

Experienced lawyers can be a great source of information about services in the local area, including information about care choices that clients may not have been aware of, such as homemaker care services for household chores like laundry, cleaning and grocery shopping for the elderly and nursing home options. In many cases, lawyers will also meet with the families of senior clients to make sure that everyone understands the needs and expectations of the client.

Elder Attorneys As Court Appointed Advocates

Lawyers who specialize in legal issues surrounding the aged are often called upon by the courts to serve in a variety of capacities to protect elderly individuals who don't have a system of support through their families or friends. In these cases, the courts may appoint an attorney as a Guardian Ad Litem or Trustee. When an elderly individual passes away without a will or without an appropriate administrator, the court system may also appoint elder attorneys as executives or administrators of a particular estate.

A Close-Knit Relationship

When you're ready to talk to a lawyer who is experienced in senior law, it can be helpful to visit their website and talk to others who have been represented by lawyers specializing legal issues surrounding older individuals. The most experienced lawyers will have a strong record as well as a history of contributing to the legal community through articles, publications and speaking engagements focused on elder law issues. Be sure to ask the elder attorneys you are considering about the work they've done for clients in conjunction with agencies for seniors to find the ideal representative for your elderly relative or loved one.