Estate Planning Lawyer and Elder Law in Palm Beach | Morgan Legal Group

Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and disposal of an estate in the event of incapacitation or death. It is important because it allows individuals to control their affairs during their lifetime and ensure that their assets are distributed according to their wishes after their death.

Elder law focuses on the legal issues that affect older adults, including estate planning, long-term care planning, guardianship, and more. While estate planning is a component of elder law, elder law encompasses a broader range of legal issues that affect seniors and their families.

An estate plan may include a variety of legal documents, such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and more. The specific documents included in an estate plan will depend on the individual’s goals, assets, and family situation.

It is recommended to review your estate plan regularly, especially after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, birth or adoption of a child, or a change in financial circumstances. We recommend reviewing your estate plan at least every three to five years or whenever there is a significant change in your life.

Yes, you can make changes to your estate plan at any time by consulting with your attorney to update your legal documents. Common reasons for updating an estate plan include changes in family circumstances, changes in tax laws, or changes in your financial situation.

A will is a legal document that specifies how your assets will be distributed after your death and allows you to appoint a guardian for minor children. A trust, on the other hand, is a legal arrangement that allows a trustee to hold and manage assets on behalf of beneficiaries according to the terms of the trust document.

Medicaid planning involves legally and ethically protecting assets while qualifying for Medicaid benefits to pay for long-term care. It is important because Medicaid eligibility rules are complex, and without proper planning, individuals may risk losing their life savings to long-term care costs.

There are various legal strategies available to help individuals protect their assets from nursing home costs, such as creating irrevocable trusts, gifting assets, purchasing long-term care insurance, and exploring Medicaid planning options. It’s essential to consult with an experienced elder law attorney to determine the best approach for your situation.

Guardianship is a legal process that allows a court to appoint a guardian to make decisions for an incapacitated person, known as a ward. It may be necessary when an individual becomes unable to make decisions due to age, illness, or disability and does not have advance directives or powers of attorney in place.

To start the estate planning process, we recommend scheduling an initial consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. During this meeting, we will discuss your goals, concerns, and priorities and develop a customized plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.