Expertise
NAELA member attorneys have specialized knowledge and experience with the unique legal issues faced by older adults and people of all ages with disabilities. They can help individuals and families navigate complex legal systems to ensure the needs of their clients are met and that their rights are protected.
Comprehensive Planning
Elder and special needs law attorneys can assist with estate planning, Medicaid and Medicare planning, guardianship, conservatorship, long-term care planning, Social Security benefits, special needs trusts, disability rights, and other legal issues that affect older adults and people with disabilities. NAELA member attorneys often work closely with other professionals such as financial planners, health care providers, and social workers to provide their clients with comprehensive services and support.
Personalized Guidance
NAELA member attorneys can provide personalized guidance for each client’s specific circumstances and goals. They can counsel clients about planning for incapacity with decision-making documents. They can assist clients in planning for possible long-term care needs, including locating the appropriate type of care, coordinating private and public resources to finance the cost of care, and working to ensure the client’s right to quality care. They can serve as strong advocates for their clients, protecting their rights and interests in legal matters related to aging and disability. They can represent clients in negotiations, administrative proceedings, and court hearings.
Higher Standard of Professional Ethics
NAELA sets a high ethical bar for its members. The clients served by elder and special needs law attorneys can be among society’s most vulnerable. NAELA is the only national association of attorneys that conditions membership on a higher level of professional ethics with a commitment to NAELA Aspirational Standards for the Practice of Elder and Special Needs Law.
The NAELA Aspirational Standards:
- Assist attorneys in navigating the many difficult ethical issues that often arise when representing older adults and people with disabilities;
- Raise the level of professionalism in the practice of elder and special needs law; and
- Assist attorneys to effectively meet the needs of their clients.