Filter by

John Brian Surgalla, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Buffalo, NY with 4 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Feb, 2022 by Hassan ahmed
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Feb, 2020 by Kajal f
Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Very friendly and patient with me every time when I called, he was always there for my answers, sometime stupid answers.
Read more Avvo
See more
Daniel Jason Schuller, experienced Elder Law, Family Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 20 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,62
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Aug, 2022 by Frank
Dan is extremely knowledgeable divorce attorney that was always prompt to respond to my emails & phone calls throughout my case. He also provided the legal reassurance in my extremely difficult divorce during the numerous pitfalls that occurred from the opposing party. His billing practices are extremely detailed & never left me questioning what his legal fees were used for. Overall working with Dan was a pleasure and with his assistantance made a difficult situation much easier to deal with and I would highly recommend his legal services.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2021 by Debbie
I hired Dan Schuller to help get Medicaid for my mother. I live in Canada which complicates things...and this was a very difficult case. I interviewed by phone (due to the pandemic) four lawyer firms. Dan was the only one I had confidence that could succeed in getting Medicaid. Dan's knowledge, professionalism and sincerity won me over the first time I talked to him. The other lawyer firms outright said, "They couldn't do it." Dan was always available by phone or email to answer my questions. He never made me feel inferior for asking for guidance. He was a pleasure to work with. Dan succeeded in getting my mother her Medicaid in an amazing timeframe. I give Dan the highest recommendation for anyone looking for an Elder Law Attorney!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Dec, 2020 by Gerald
Dan did our Irrevocable Trust, Powers of Attorney, Health Proxys, and updated out wills. He was very knowledgeable, thorough and so easy to work with.
Read more Avvo
See more
James Daniel Tresmond, experienced Appeals, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 147 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
42,73
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
4.8
6 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
141 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2025 by Willie holton
I want to express my gratitude for my attorney, Eric. He is always available, personable, and ensures everything is handled in a timely manner with great follow-up. I truly appreciate his dedication and professionalism. Plus, I love that they are local! Thank you for your excellent service.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Dec, 2024 by Daveisha hunter
The best law firm
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Michael kinsley
The firm was very timely with any questions that I had regarding my case.Very personable and informative 👍. Would recommend them to anyone.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Jessica Michelle Peraza, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 31 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
42,69
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
29 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2025 by Tom laska
Mazza law will get the job done. Listen and do what your told the results will come.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2024 by Kitt lady
Mazzu Law was the first firm that took me seriously. Listend to my story. Worked diligently, kept me informed, and got a settlement for me. If I ever have to go through this again. I would come back to this firm first. Treated me with kindness, respect, and honesty. Gave me options and never felt like I was lost. I was informed all the way through and was carefully explained all the steps we took together. It is a very professional and they prove productive services. Of your looking for a great firm look no further. This is one of the greats.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2024 by Nick garey
I had an excellent experience with Mazzu Law handling my case. From start to finish, they were dedicated, professional, and clearly committed to getting me the best possible outcome. Ed & his team went above and beyond, always keeping me updated and explaining every step. Thanks to their hard work and determination, they were able to secure a maximum settlement for me. I couldn’t be more grateful for their expertise and support throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a law firm that truly cares about your case and your results, I highly recommend Mazzu Law.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Richard Charles Slisz, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Buffalo, NY with 4 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2022 by Cherie
Richard is an absolute gem. Going through Divorce is terrifying and he stood behind me all the way through. I highly recommend him!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2015 by Dan
Richard has handled several business matters for me. I cant say enough nice things about him. He treat you like a friend, gets the job done quickly and have always ended with a great result Thank again Richard! D.J.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Richard represented me in my divorce and he was outstanding. He would call or e mail me with updates at night and on weekends and kept me informed. He fought for me when I wanted to give up. He was truly a god send. I highly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
Bruce Douglas Reinoso, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 4 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
37,60
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
4 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Feb, 2022 by Dennis pew
Fantastic lawyer took me thru a very ugly divorce I came out with my kids and the ex paying me child support
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Dec, 2020 by Md moniruzzaman monir
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2020 by Anna yatchuk
Awesome lawyer!!!!!! Helped me so much. Did his job 100%. Would highly recommend.
Read more Google Maps
See more
George Edward Riedel, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 95 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,15
star star star star star
4.7/5
Google Maps
4.7
95 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Dec, 2024 by Edward pitts
Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Oct, 2024 by Mike k
Would not even give them one star call them don't return calls don't messages after six weeks ten call to them then ask for email to tell you they can't do the case
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Oct, 2024 by William “bill” squire
Don't waste your money! Talks and talks like a used car salesman, postpone, delay,postpone, delay cash your check and delay. Hoping courts loses interest
Read more Google Maps
See more
Joseph John Schoellkopf Jr., experienced Civil Rights, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Feb, 2022 by Hassan ahmed
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Feb, 2020 by Kajal f
Google Maps
See more
Jennifer Alicia Kelleher, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 132 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,52
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
132 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2025 by Willie holton
I want to express my gratitude for my attorney, Eric. He is always available, personable, and ensures everything is handled in a timely manner with great follow-up. I truly appreciate his dedication and professionalism. Plus, I love that they are local! Thank you for your excellent service.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2024 by Michael kinsley
The firm was very timely with any questions that I had regarding my case.Very personable and informative 👍. Would recommend them to anyone.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Dec, 2024 by Logan fleming
Highly recommend. Thank you Chris!
Read more Google Maps
See more
Mark Joseph Peszko, experienced Business, Criminal Defense attorney in Buffalo, NY with 37 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,63
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
37 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2024 by Douglas frazier
Arrogant,did not meet w/me before the trial, jumped on the defence offer without decussing it with me, did not explain that there is a 14day delay to execute a warrant,and tried to get 25.exstra out of me to file the warrant witch i filed for free.He'snot worth the 500.the money
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2024 by Michael cantoria
Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2024 by Gail neilson
Google Maps
See more
Nancy Wieczorek Saia, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 6 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,14
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.3
6 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2019 by Kathy
Nancy & her staff handled the closing on our house. Selling a home you’ve lived in for several years is extremely stressful & they made the closing seem effortless. They are professional and friendly and responded quickly to my inquiries. I highly recommend the Law Offices of Nancy W. Asia.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Jun, 2018 by Danielle
Nancy and her assistants Dina and Nick are so helpful. They are making the process of selling a home so easy. I am so grateful. I highly recommend them.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2013 by Frank b
I've been dealing with Nancy Saia for about ten years. She and her staff stay on top of everything and return your calls promptly. Last week her staff settled a trust problem for me within five hours. This week they are handling my mothers estate for me. Her office has handled our wills, trust, purchase and sale of three houses at very reasonable rates. Before dealing with Nancy Saia I used two different lawyers that took forever to get things done, one even messed up the paper work and wanted me to pay to correct his mistakes. I even chose Nancy Saia over a cousin who was a lawyer before he retired.
Read more Avvo
See more
Linda Stravalaci Grear, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 6 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,14
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
4.3
6 Reviews
star star star star star
01 May, 2019 by Mary
Very disappointed. Their website says they are compassionate as they know their clients are going through difficult times. We were respectful, conscientious and even apologetic in our verbal and written communucation to Ms. Grear and her secretary, Heather. However, unfortunately, Ms. Grear just let us go as clients, refunding part of our retainer fee because we allegedly called her secretary too often.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Grear handled my estate issues with empathy, helpfulness, and ease. She was responsive to my questions with promptness and care. Her expertise in handling all matters was exemplary. Approaches to handling estate matters were easy to understand.and easily put into place. Only regret is that I did not consult with her earlier.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Linda and her staff were an absolute delight to work with. My matter was very complex with multiple siblings and a lengthy will left by my father. Linda made sure to keep me informed about my case and always responded to my questions in a timely manner. Anyone can tell what a passion she has for her job right away. It was nice to deal with someone so caring and knowledgeable during such a difficult time in my life. I would recommend Linda to anyone who has estates and trusts needs.
Read more Avvo
See more
Henry D. Gartner, experienced Elder Law, Medical Malpractice attorney in Buffalo, NY with 70 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
29,05
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
70 Reviews
star star star star star
31 Jan, 2025 by Felicia reddick
I've dealt with this law firm since 2001, I love their professionalism obviously, I love their willingness to answer all in any questions you may have, they always return your calls relatively fast if not the same day within the next day, all of the staff are great. I've met all of the lawyers at least once at some point in time. I would definitely recommend them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jan, 2025 by Tracy beebe
John Federice is an amazing attorney! Couldn't and wouldn't ever handle a workers comp case on my own. I recommend John Federice to handle any claim. He is professional, timely, knowledgeable, and he cares. Thanks again, John. I appreciate all you did for me!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Row briggs
John Federice has been working with me for existing comp case for about 4 years now. He always answers my questions (and there are many) and helps me to understand this whole process. He is incredibly knowledgeable in his trade and is an ongoing asset for the comp case with which I am involved in. I am glad that he and his practice are there and available and honestly have my best interests and on my side. Very appreciative of his services and sound judgement
Read more Google Maps
See more
Terrie Benson Murray, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 8 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,47
star star star star star
4.1/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
Google Maps
1.5
2 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2023 by Molly harrington
We used Katherine Bestine for a no-fault, uncontested divorce. On my initial visit, 10/28/22. At that time I was told the divorce should be done by February so we could file our taxes together one last time. She cut the remainder in half because "this is so simple". We paid $2400 upfront. They took so long they needed another $2000. We did not have a divorce date until AUGUST 29 2023. It was so upsetting and hard. I'm so disappointed. I was recommended to her from several very public attorneys. I have made them all aware of what happened. I hope the truth can be provided to clients so you don't have to spend 11 months getting divorced. No money, no property. The only thing was a name change. Just so disappointed. I'd be weary to use her again. The paralegal and clerks were all fantastic.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2023 by John j
Several weeks ago I inquired about a case and I didn't get to actually explain everything before I was told I couldn't get helped and accused of wrong doing. Clients beware they are not in your best interest.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 May, 2019 by Brenda
Terrie assisted me during a very difficult time while my mother was in Hospice and we were working on selling her home. She was able to maneuver through the Medicaid lien process, and assisted me in what paperwork was needed to move things forward. Once my mother passed Terrie assisted my family and I with the estate process. She was very thorough and flexible with our schedules.
Read more Avvo
See more
Jean Harris, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
25,12
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
5 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2023 by Jeff
Our family has had the pleasure of working with Jean Harris at PB Elder Law for the past 4 years. She helped us navigate the complexities of estate and care planning for our aging parents: from the initial consultation to following through on the details of one’s passing, Jean has always had our best interests in mind. Jean is a strong advocate, empathetic listener, and is sensitive to the nuances of family dynamics. This is also true of the entire team at PB Elder Law; everyone we’ve interacted with is responsive and leverages their expertise without pause. We made a great choice when we selected PB Elder law, and are extraordinarily lucky to have Jean on our team.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Sep, 2022 by Steve
I could not be happier with my experience of hiring Jean Harris of Pfalzgraf Beinhauer Elder Law. Jean and her team successfully and professionally handled the approval of Medicaid benefits for my mother who is in a nursing home. I was informed of the progress along the way, which turned out to be a very difficult battle. They assured me not to worry, since they none of the Medicaid applications that they handled were ever denied. It quickly became evident that Jean and her team knows how to win. I must mention one valuable team member, Mackenzie Brown. Mackenzie is great! I am grateful for her skills and performance as well. Jean sure knows how to surround herself with a team of winners! I am so thankful to have found and hired Jean Harris. You will be too!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Apr, 2015 by Lee
Jean has handled both my mother's and father's estates for me when they passed within the past two years. She has always tried to sort everything for me as quickly as possible, and has always had the patience to explain everything to me which would otherwise go over my head. Jean has extensive knowledge of her field and has aided me in getting legal help in other states when it was needed. She also has always kept up on all my affairs without me even having to ask. In addition to her professionalism, she has a rare kindness and sensitivity which was so appreciated during these difficult times that I have needed her services.
Read more Avvo
See more
David A. Shapiro, experienced Bankruptcy, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 153 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
21,16
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
2.6
5 Reviews
Google Maps
3.7
148 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Nov, 2024 by Dean jones
I am not having the best experience with this organization, I'm sure that everyone there is like the person that is supposed to be helping me, but I feel like the individual is very opinionated and is emphasizing more on what I need to show the landlord when the landlord isn't violation of not providing heat for over two years. I have decided as of last month withhold renting to the issue is fixed and it has not been, yet my council has been on me showing that I have all the rent and nothing in regards to giving the landlord a time frame into which they need to fix my heat. Pretty disappointed I will be looking into another organization to help me out with this matter or just deal with it myself cuz I have done the research and I pretty much know what I need to do and what paperwork I need to file and so on and so forth.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2024 by Jackie toews
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2024 by Victoria pol
Taking g over a week for a lawyer to return a call he calls on a day ??? What still can't get through even pressing 0. No one answers
Read more Google Maps
See more
Jessica M. Peraza, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Darren M. Swetz, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Rebecca E. Monte, experienced Discrimination, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Donald B. Eppers, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Britta L. McKenna, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Darice Lindsay Hickey, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
William Carl Meyer, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Lucy M. Berkman, experienced Elder Law, Trusts attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Marten Rose Violante, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Gayle L Vaillancourt Eagan, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Francis Robert Vavonese, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Raymond William Walter, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
W Clark Trow, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Edward J. Markarian, experienced Appeals, Elder Law attorney in Buffalo, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Elder Law Lawyer Can Do for You

An elder law lawyer specializes in legal issues that affect older adults, their families, and caregivers. These lawyers handle a broad range of topics, including estate planning, Medicaid and Medicare, long-term care planning, guardianship, elder abuse, and retirement planning. The goal of an elder law lawyer is to protect the rights, finances, and well-being of elderly individuals and to help them plan for future healthcare and financial security.

If you or a loved one is aging and facing challenges related to healthcare, finances, or legal matters, an elder law lawyer can provide essential guidance to protect your rights and interests as you age.

When Should I Hire an Elder Law Lawyer?

Hiring an elder law lawyer can be beneficial in many situations where older adults need help with legal, financial, or healthcare-related decisions. Common reasons to hire an elder law lawyer include:

  • Estate planning: If you want to create or update a will, set up trusts, or ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, an elder law lawyer can help with comprehensive estate planning.
  • Medicaid and Medicare planning: If you need help qualifying for Medicaid to cover long-term care or need advice on navigating Medicare benefits, a lawyer can guide you through the application process and protect your assets.
  • Long-term care planning: If you’re concerned about paying for nursing home care or assisted living, a lawyer can help you create a financial plan and explore options for government assistance.
  • Guardianship or conservatorship: If a family member is unable to make decisions due to age-related cognitive issues, an elder law lawyer can assist in setting up legal guardianship or conservatorship to ensure their care.
  • Elder abuse and exploitation: If you or a loved one is experiencing physical, emotional, or financial abuse, an elder law lawyer can help you take legal action to stop the abuse and recover damages.
  • Retirement planning: Elder law lawyers can assist with planning for retirement, including managing pensions, Social Security, and other retirement income.
  • Special needs planning: If you have a disabled family member who requires special care, an elder law lawyer can help create trusts or other legal arrangements to ensure their long-term financial and healthcare needs are met.

What Does an Elder Law Lawyer Do?

An elder law lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help older adults and their families navigate the complexities of aging, healthcare, and estate planning. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Drafting wills and trusts: Creating legal documents that outline how an individual’s assets will be distributed after death, ensuring that their wishes are honored.
  • Medicaid and Medicare planning: Helping clients protect their assets while qualifying for government benefits to cover healthcare and long-term care costs.
  • Establishing guardianships: Assisting families in setting up guardianship or conservatorship for loved ones who are unable to make decisions due to mental or physical incapacity.
  • Protecting against elder abuse: Investigating claims of elder abuse or financial exploitation and representing the victim in legal actions to stop the abuse and seek compensation.
  • Planning for long-term care: Developing strategies to cover the costs of nursing homes, assisted living, and other long-term care options without exhausting the elder’s financial resources.
  • Managing probate and estate administration: Guiding families through the probate process to ensure that the decedent’s assets are distributed according to the law and their wishes.
  • Setting up advance directives: Helping clients establish healthcare directives and powers of attorney to ensure their medical and financial decisions are carried out if they become incapacitated.

How Are Elder Law Lawyers Paid?

Elder law lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Many elder law lawyers charge by the hour, especially for tasks such as drafting documents, handling legal disputes, or providing ongoing legal advice. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as drafting a will or setting up a trust, some lawyers charge a flat fee. This can range from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the estate plan.
  • Retainer: For long-term legal representation, such as managing a trust or handling guardianship matters, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers future legal work.
  • Contingency fee: In some elder abuse or financial exploitation cases, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they recover compensation for the client. This fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or damages awarded.

Be sure to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how you will be billed and what the total cost of services might be.

How Much Does an Elder Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an elder law lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure. General cost estimates include:

  • Simple estate planning: Drafting basic documents, such as a will or power of attorney, may cost between $500 and $2,000, depending on the complexity of the client’s assets and wishes.
  • Complex estate planning: Setting up more advanced estate plans, such as revocable or irrevocable trusts, Medicaid planning, or special needs trusts, can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more.
  • Guardianship or conservatorship: Legal fees for setting up guardianship or conservatorship often range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and whether disputes arise.
  • Medicaid planning: Legal fees for Medicaid planning can range from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on the level of asset protection needed and the complexity of the individual’s financial situation.

Always ask for an estimate of fees during your initial consultation to ensure you understand how much the legal services will cost.

Top Questions to Ask an Elder Law Lawyer

Before hiring an elder law lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise needed to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with elder law cases?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's estate planning, Medicaid applications, or elder abuse claims.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost.
  3. What is the best approach for my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your situation and what legal strategies the lawyer recommends.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Whether it’s drafting an estate plan or setting up a guardianship, ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to take.
  5. Will you handle my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be working on your case directly.
  6. What documents should I bring to the consultation?
    Ask the lawyer what documentation or information you should prepare for your consultation, such as medical records, financial statements, or prior legal documents.

How to Check the Credibility of an Elder Law Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable elder law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and experience:

  • Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for elder law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in elder law and have experience with cases similar to yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on elder law issues.
  • Check for certifications: Look for certifications or affiliations with organizations such as the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), which can indicate the lawyer’s dedication to elder law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with an elder law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Existing estate planning documents: If you have a will, trust, or power of attorney in place, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
  • Financial records: Provide details of your assets, including bank accounts, investments, real estate, and retirement accounts, as well as any debts.
  • Medical information: If the case involves guardianship or Medicaid planning, bring relevant medical records that detail the individual's health condition and care needs.
  • Insurance policies: Bring information about health insurance, long-term care insurance, and any other relevant policies.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about your legal needs, the process, and the lawyer’s fees.
  • List of family members or beneficiaries: Prepare a list of the individuals you want to include in your estate plan or who will be affected by the legal process.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and receive the best legal advice tailored to your needs.

Scroll to top