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22 Sep, 2024 by Manny betinis
Excellent followup. Very prompt. Very professional. Great team & great service. EFHARISTO!
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15 Sep, 2024 by Bill tsoukalas
I am a real estate agent with the Prime Real Estate Group, and I always refer my clients to Niko Marneris for all of their real estate transactions because he and his associates are professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate to their clients needs! I was able to witness this type of care first hand as I recently just purchased my new home. There was such attention to every detail and a quick response to any question I had! This group is truly top notch and I will continue to send my clients in their direction!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Vicki graff
Niko, Shayla, and the entire team at Marneris Law were terrific with our condo purchase. We never met any of them in person, yet we felt a personal connection. We've bought three houses before but were completely unfamiliar with condos. Marneris Law scrutinized all the documents, knew what questions to ask, sought clarifications and details from the condominium association, and pushed every issue until they were certain all our questions and concerns were addressed to our satisfaction. They protected our interests and ensured the closing proceeded smoothly. We recommend their services highly!
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20 Sep, 2024 by Karen derosa
Erin and Sarah: I am absolutely pleased with the great results of the handling of the sale on Nottingham Ave. I felt so at ease as I was handling this sale for a dear friend. I certainly was in very good hands as I was explained everything so throughly and the closing moved along so quickly. You both are exceptional! I thank you so very much again.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Ellen mcfadden
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06 Sep, 2024 by David samuel dworkin
Sarah and Erin were amazing supports to me during my first time home-buying process. They were prompt, patient and advocated fair terms for my new home. Thank you both.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Alishia dingle
Great law firm. Bardia helped me avoid a foreclosure on my property by successfully dismissing the bank’s foreclosure complaint, which bought me enough time to sell the property. Highly recommend!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Mike visek
Excellent experience with Bardia and the whole team at The Law Center. Very professional, honest and helpful. If you need any help - don't hesitate and call these experts. Thanks again guys.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Demetrius rasberry
The Law Center has truly helped me. They helped save my late mom's house from foreclosure and was able to secure enough time for me to sell the property. In the end, the foreclosure case was dismissed and the bank was paid in full. These guys are the best. Thank you
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21 Oct, 2019 by Anne
I am 80 years old and met with Mollie Whitehead to update my Will as well as review my other Trust documents. I also wanted to have Powers of Attorney set up. Mollie was professional, knowledgeable and efficient. She provided a great analysis, answered my questions on estate planning & I agreed she should send me a draft of the items we agreed upon. That process took very little time & with a minimum of editing, we finalized & formally signed all the documents.
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07 Oct, 2018 by Bob
Mollie provided all of the documents and expertise needed to complete our estate planning. We hired her to develop wills, healthcare power of attorneys, and business power of attorneys. She recommended me establish a family trust and provided all of the documents and took care of transferring our real estate to the trust. We found Molly to be very knowledgeable, thorough, and efficient. She answered all of our questions and provided clear explanations for all the documents. We wholeheartedly recommend her.
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14 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Mollie answered my questions super fast! She helped me tremendously. Highly recommended! Thanks again.
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26 Dec, 2022 by John
My brother and I needed a lawyer to handle our cousin’s estate, who lived in Cook County and died without a will or any direct descendants. Sheni was recommended to us based upon another cousin’s prior experience. For our initial meeting, Sheni agreed to meet at a location convenient to the heirs and we came prepared to summarize our basic understanding of the scope of our cousin’s estate. After only a single meeting with all five heirs, we immediately agreed to hire Sheni to handle his more complicated estate….with NO regrets! During that initial meeting Sheni listened carefully to understand our unique situation and during that same session proposed what she thought would be necessary for this estate, along with offering two different payment options for her services. Sheni was extremely professional and communicated in a way were all heirs quickly felt comfortable in understanding the work necessary and was through yet efficient with everyone’s time. My brother and I were selected as co-administrators and worked closely with Sheni over the next 16 months to have our cousin’s probate estate opened and successfully closed. While we didn’t consider this estate extremely complicated, it had some unusual aspects and issues that arose but Sheni was always available to answer our questions quickly or guide us through our options. If she couldn’t answer them quickly she would always respond to acknowledge she received the request and when she would be able to get back to use, which was always greatly appreciated! There were a few unexpected and sometime frustrating delay’s caused by COVID restrictions and the Cook County court system but Sheni always provided reassurance along the way. Even when we encountered a difference of opinion over closing the estate, a quick conference call and discussion quickly resolved any remaining concerns/issues. While we have little experience working with estate lawyers based upon this one experience, we couldn’t have asked for a better person than Sheni to work with to handle our cousin’s estate in a professional way and very effectively!
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06 May, 2021 by Karen and james mccarty
Sheni did a great job. She bent over backwards to help us. We would recommend her to anyone who needs an estate done. Thank you for being so helpful.
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05 Apr, 2021 by Diana
Was referred to Sheni by my tax preparer. I was trying to organize my paperwork in case of death. She answered all of my questions, explained the complexities, and did the work in a timely manner. When she said it would be done by this date, it was done. Would use her again.
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19 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Thank you for everything You and your firm did to help me and straighten out the problems. I wish I would have known of your firm from the beginning. Using your help from the beginning would not change the problems I had but, I believe I would have been better informed from the start. Your support and knowledge helped me deal with a horrible situation. I will recommend you to anyone who needs an elder law attorney
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02 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I wanted to take this opportunity to once again say "Thank You" to Helen Mesoloras for meeting with us and presenting the process that will take place with my loved one going forward. It was very informative and understandable for each step in the process.
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13 Jan, 2016 by Kathleen
Thank you so much for all of your legal understandings and excellent advise. Your support was a great comfort to me.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Tina
Elizabeth is beyond wonderful!!! She is very knowledgeable and her fee structure is reasonable. I feel very safe and secure with her practice and help with my Estate planning needs.
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04 Jun, 2023 by Pam
Working with Elizabeth Fink for an estate closing was an outstanding experience. Even though this was a difficult time for me and my family, she made the process as smooth as possible with kindness and compassion. She walked us through the process step-by-step in the most cost efficient way possible. Even when more questions arose after the work was completed, she was still very responsive and helpful. She will be our legal consultant from now on. I highly recommend her to my friends!!!
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30 May, 2023 by Diana
Thank you again Elizabeth for everything you did for me. You real don't know how much you and your staff helped me. Keep up the great work you are doing. GIRL POWER!
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14 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
My sister and I wanted to take a moment and thank your firm for the outstanding service and support we have received regarding estate planning for our parents. Helen Mesoloras, Melissa LaPointe and Erin Vogt have provided guidance and their expertise while also displaying genuine care, concern and compassion. When my father suffered a massive stroke in October '15, we were left overwhelmed and lost as to what to do next regarding his care. After being referred to your firm by in NY (where I live) I spoke to Erin who listened and right away assured us your firm could help not only in estate planning but with the medicaid process as well. From our first meeting with Helen and Melissa, we felt confident and secure we were not alone, and that we would have someone helping us advocate for my dad in the nursing home he was at. As for the medicaid process, being that I do not live in town, the idea of my mom and sister having to do the medicaid application alone was not an option. Had it not been for your team organizing everything and informing us when items were still needed I honestly think we would still be knee deep in paperwork today. Another turning point happened in December when I was talking to Erin regarding my dad's overall health. He was extremely depressed and not eating at the time. She suggested that maybe palliative care could help us. While initially on palliative care, since February he had been on hospice care. But had it not been for Erin we never would have known about these services. While unfortunately our father passed away recently, we continue to work with your team regarding my mother's estate planning. We feel great solace in knowing that dad would want us to make sure mom is taken care of and protected in every way. Thank you again for all your support.
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29 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
We were referred us to Melissa LaPointe. Melissa is amazing. She has been our guide throughout. She is professional, smart and incredibly responsive. We would NEVER have been able to do this without her. I have learned so much from her. I had to force my husband to go to an Elder Law Attorney. He did not understand the need and did not want to spend the money. Now he would tell you that the service we received and the final result was more than worth it.”
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11 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
There are few words that can truly describe the depths of my gratefulness and appreciation for the support and peace of mind that was bestowed on my family from attorney, Melissa LaPointe with Dutton and Casey. She was responsive to our family in a time of crisis and expeditiously handled our legal matter with utmost professionalism and compassion. Thank You Melissa, for being our light of hope.
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16 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I am most fortunate to have Ms. Duda as a strong and caring advocate for my loved one for a number of years. Her vast knowledge of the laws involved, and her ceaseless efforts, which are always enveloped in compassion and empathy, are truly a gift to all those who are fortunate to have her on their team, both as a talented attorney and a caring human being.
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26 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I am the guardian of a mentally disabled family member. Some years ago I was embroiled in a long-standing, complex dispute with care providers that could have resulted in devastating and dangerous consequences for my ward. Lara entered my legal case at this point, and assisted in bringing the situation under control in just a few months. Her wisdom, knowledge, patience, calmness and exceptional skills as a negotiator and counselor helped to bring about a solution that was better than anything I had hoped for. Since then, I have continued to work with Lara as my attorney for all guardianship issues, which fortunately, have been relatively routine since that early crisis. Lara has such a passion for protecting and serving the disabled. Her compassion is boundless, yet she is like a rock when she takes a stand for what is needed, and she cannot be manipulated. Her knowledge is extensive, yet she is also guided by intuition. Her ability to be impartial, and to understand (and explain) the differing perspectives of difficult people is, and was so valuable in my personal situation. I learned much from her that still serves me well in my continuing relationships with my ward's present care providers. I would highly recommend Lara as an advocate and a resource to any disabled person, or to anyone who takes care of a disabled person.
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26 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I am the owner of a medical case management and guardianship company in Chicago and have had the priviledge of working with Attorney Lara Duda on numerous occasions over the past five years. Lara stands out among attorneys that I work with in many ways, but this is mostly evidenced by her passion to serve disabled and elderly clients and assist in protecting them when they do not have a voice of their own. Lara is extremely knowledgeable in the Elder Law and Probate Law arena and goes above and beyond to ensure that my clients come first.
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07 Jan, 2024 by Aaron korson
Stephanie Stewart is by far one of the nicest and most professional attorneys I have met. She has valuable insight and is someone to admire in the field of law.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Kenneth piercey
Stephanie Stewart is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. She has given me a lot of valuable advice over the years and has helped bring clarity and peace of mind to difficult and complex issues. I highly recommend Stephanie! Ken Piercey Attorney at Law Piercey & Associates, Ltd.
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21 Feb, 2020 by Danne valeroa
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07 Jan, 2024 by Aaron korson
Stephanie Stewart is by far one of the nicest and most professional attorneys I have met. She has valuable insight and is someone to admire in the field of law.
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19 Oct, 2023 by Kenneth piercey
Stephanie Stewart is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. She has given me a lot of valuable advice over the years and has helped bring clarity and peace of mind to difficult and complex issues. I highly recommend Stephanie! Ken Piercey Attorney at Law Piercey & Associates, Ltd.
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21 Feb, 2020 by Danne valeroa
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05 Apr, 2023 by Roberta
Kathryn Crow Casey is the attorney I recommend to my family, friends and associates. Kathryn demonstrated an extremely knowledgeable understanding of estate planning for Eldercare. We discussed a Will. powers of health and finance and several aspects related to long term care. My list of concerns and questions were quite extensive when we worked together, Kathryn patiently listened and thoroughly answered my questions. The way she explained everything was in ways that were very understandable. I feel confident that I understand the many aspects I need questioned with an additional understanding of several legal concerns.
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28 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Hi Kathryn, now that this process seems to be about over, I just wanted to write you a quick note to thank you for your help, knowledge, and professionalism. I’ve been on a big learning curve throughout this process and you’ve done a great job explaining things and getting me up to speed. If I ever have a friend going through something like this, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend you. I really appreciate that there was never a touch of arrogance on your part, and that you could explain things in a way that was simple to understand
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11 May, 2018 by Tom
I hired Delaney Delaney and Voorn to help navigate all the unknowns of nursing home, Medicaid and estate legalities for my aunt, who was in the later stages of dementia with other health issues and then passed away. Mallory was assigned my case and I could not have had a better lawyer. Her command of the issues, the subtleties and the application of the law, and her deep experience in these areas helped to steer us into proper directions and manage all the particulars that we did not even know existed. Her skill in this area helped take the stress out of the unknowns and get us to the best solutions. We could not have done it without her. I always knew I was in good hands no matter what issue I brought to her. I will recommend her and the firm to family and friends who may one day have similar situations.
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19 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I needed an attorney to help me through the complicated process of getting my 95-year-old mother living in a nursing home accepted on public aid. Mallory made what I considered a long and pain staking process very easy. She was patient, thorough, always friendly and very knowledgeable throughout the process. What at first looked to be a standard case we did run into a financial investment issue that Mallory explored all possible remedies and ultimately overcame the issue. Bottom-line, I highly recommend using Mallory for your Elder care legal issues.
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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16 May, 2019 by Michelle evans
Loved it
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08 Dec, 2016 by Gloryann
I can't thank you enough for taking care of my issue FAST & at a very fair rate! Sincerely Grateful, Mrs. Fox
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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23 Mar, 2015 by Matt
Erin handled my legal issues quickly, efficiently, and with great professionalism to help me get a very favorable result. I would highly recommend her if you are ever in need of smart legal counsel.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Terrell spurlock
Mr. Gordon was a great resource during this difficult process. He was always easy to get in contact with and willing to answer all questions I had. I appreciate his persistence in insuring that my case was closed in my favor. I highly recommend him as an attorney if you are I need of one.
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10 Sep, 2024 by C wey
Throughout the process, Doug was always professional, responsive, and thorough. I highly recommend him.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Donitta ennis
Where do I start? Mr. Gordon not only handled my case with extreme professionalism, but he was very honest and upfront about everything. He definitely made me feel comfortable with trusting him. From beginning to the end, he was right by my side and made sure I received what I deserved! Thank you very much!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Carlos alvarez
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05 Aug, 2024 by Ion preguza
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28 Jun, 2021 by Rye infanzon
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01 Jun, 2023 by Kristen resendiz
Highly recommend The Law Offices of George M. Sanders. I worked directly with Mr. Sanders and he was extremely knowledgeable and very professional. He had my best interest in mind the entire time and made sure he wasn't wasting my time or money. Under the circumstances, I felt like I was in good hands with Mr. Sanders.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rhonda wms
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08 Jul, 2024 by Morgan richardson
Alexis was an excellent attorney representing me in both the purchase (2011) and the sale of my home (2018).
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31 Aug, 2024 by Luke upchurch
I really appreciate the scholarship opportunity and how that benefits working adults.
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11 Oct, 2024 by Stephen rue
Great competent lawyers. I highly recommend.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Aguek aywel
These people were a great help to me. I'd recommend them to anybody who are in need of their services. Very reasonable.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Andrew carson
Great lawyers! Great support in hard times! Highly recommend DDT Law Group!!!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Stephen rue
Great competent lawyers. I highly recommend.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Aguek aywel
These people were a great help to me. I'd recommend them to anybody who are in need of their services. Very reasonable.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Andrew carson
Great lawyers! Great support in hard times! Highly recommend DDT Law Group!!!
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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.

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