NAELA Council of Advanced Practitioners (CAP)
What Is CAP?
The Council of Advanced Practitioners (CAP) is a distinguished group within NAELA. Members are NAELA attorneys who exemplify the highest standards of elder and special needs law, both in practice and in principle, and are recognized for their professionalism, leadership, and deep knowledge of elder and special needs law.
Candidates may be nominated by peers or self-nominated. Members are selected through a thorough review process based on their ethical practice, commitment to clients, and contributions to the field.
Benefits of Belonging
- Professional Recognition: CAP signifies an attorney has achieved a high level of expertise and professionalism in elder and special needs law and is recognized by their peers.
- Networking With Experts: CAP connects you with a distinguished group of experienced practitioners who share insights, best practices, and support.
- Access to Exclusive Resources: CAP means access to specialized educational materials and events tailored to advanced practitioners.
- Leadership Opportunities: CAP participants are identified as leaders in the broader legal community, influencing policy and shaping the future of elder law.
Requirements
Candidates seeking CAP membership must:
- Be a member of NAELA for at least 10 years and currently a member in good standing.
- Be a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) or Fellow.
- Have made substantial contributions to the elder law and special needs legal field by lecturing, writing, teaching, or being involved in bar activities or the enactment of significant state or federal legislation.
- Be a lawyer to whom the other members in the applicant's jurisdiction would readily refer a matter within the applicant's field of expertise without reservation
- Commit to participate substantially in CAP, including writing articles on behalf of CAP, or leading or participating in programs, or serving on a CAP committee, and actively participating in NAELA.
- Have malpractice insurance coverage
Alternatively, attorneys may also qualify if they are:
- A full-time elder law professor
- A legal services attorney
Candidates may be nominated by a peer or self-nominated. All nominations are reviewed and approved by the CAP Steering Committee. Click here to fill out and submit the application.
NAELA Fellows and CAP Membership
Many CAP members first achieve recognition as NAELA Fellows. Fellows are attorneys who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the field, distinguished themselves in service to clients and the profession, and are viewed by their peers as role models and leaders.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you are committed to excellence in elder and special needs law and want to stand out among your peers, consider joining CAP.
CAP Application
Current CAP Members
Already a CAP member and looking for more information?
CAP Community