Filter by

Sara Zivian Zwickl, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 14 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.
43,43
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
14 Reviews
star star star star star
28 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Sara helped our family successfully navigate a difficult and divisive time at the end of my mother’s life. She is a consummate professional with a breadth of experience (I believe she’s seen it all!), knowledge, and understanding. Sara ensured that mom’s wishes were respected and when mom developed dementia, skillfully shielded her from a relative who was seeking to take advantage. Sara is clear and direct but, at the same time, kind and compassionate. Sara’s knowledge of the law and her caring approach set her apart. I absolutely recommend her without reservation.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 May, 2022 by Joe
Since my father had not left a will when he passed, what little I knew about estates was that I would need help with my father's. I contacted Sara by phone and we spoke briefly and set an appointment to speak in person. Sara was not the first attorney I spoke with but the first to interview with me. At the interview I explained why I needed her help, I also showed my limited knowledge of what was before me. By the end of the interview Sara agreed to help me through the probate process. In the following months Sara worked on my behalf with the court and advised me what was expected of me as the administer of the estate. Through the whole process there were times I felt overwhelmed with the "business" of settling his estate and sometimes became quite emotional over my personal loss. But, with kind words and a firm direction Sara kept me on track and focused. I guess that's why attorneys are called counselors. Finally, with Sara's continued support and guidance, things were at an end and the estate was dissolved. There are things that happen in life that happen to other people and you think, that's too bad. But when one of those things happens to you you think, how will I get through this. I don't know how things would have turned out with someone other than Sara, I don't need to think about it. Sara was the best possible attorney for me to have helping me with her hard work, her knowledge and experience and her empathy. I plan on having Sara help with my estate planning since having experienced this ordeal once, I do not want to leave something like this to my loved ones.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2022 by Tom
Top marks! Sara has been my attorney for the past 24 years and I am forever grateful to the person who recommended her when I was first in need. Always on top of things, always ready with advice or direct action on my behalf. Plus, she is funny, unflappable, gracious and generous in spirit. She's my attorney but also my friend.
Read more Avvo
See more
Sarah E. Pangburn, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 230 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.
35,95
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
230 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2025 by Chris leggett
I recently had a phone consultation with Ray, and while I typically treat BAR members like I treat Federal Reserve Notes—acknowledge their existence but don’t put too much faith in them—I have to admit, this one didn't immediately trigger my "fraudulent adhesion contract" radar. A rare feat, indeed. To my surprise, Ray was knowledgeable, professional, and didn't try to gaslight me into believing I’m just another helpless soul lost in the maritime fog of presumed liability. He actually listened, provided solid insights, and—brace yourself—spoke in a way that didn’t require me to decode legalese like I’m deciphering an IRS tax form while blindfolded. Now, am I ready to swear an oath of allegiance to the BAR? Absolutely not! But did this consultation help ease my situation and clarify some key points? Yes. He may not have issued me a Letter of Marque, but at least he didn’t try to drag me back onto the pirate ship. For those navigating the choppy waters of the legal system while trying to remain in the private, this attorney might just be a safe port… or at least a dry dock that doesn’t come with an automatic lien. Would I recommend them? Let’s just say, if you ever find yourself in a legal pickle and don’t have time to hit them with an affidavit first, they might be worth a call. Just make sure you’re not unwittingly entering into a contract—because, as we know, silence can sometimes be construed as consent. -- Sincerely, but not legally binding, nor to be misconstrued as consent to any jurisdiction outside my own. Operating strictly on the land, unencumbered by fraudulent adhesion contracts, declining all offers of joinder (unless they come with a hefty payout, a zero-liability clause, and a notarized apology from the BAR). Refusing to board any Pirate Ship, lest I be mistaken for lost cargo or an involuntary surety in yet another maritime scheme. Navigating only by the true law of the land—Common Law—where my word holds more weight than a Federal Reserve Note post-1933. With all due respect (which, as we know, is contractually undefined, thus measured solely by my own good grace), Unincorporated, Unencumbered, and Unbothered—Keeper of My Own Seal and Governor of My Own Affairs. In honor of the Living Man/Woman, free from legalese, BAR sorcery, and admiralty entrapments— May your motions be granted, your contracts be voidable, and your standing be always Sui Juris. May your notices be unrebutted, your affidavits unchallenged, and your fee schedules enforced at the highest commercial rate. May every attempt at entrapment be met with a swift and merciless estoppel, and may all claims against you be dismissed with prejudice. Signed in good faith, but never in commerce, By My Own Hand and Authority, Standing as the Chief Executor, Attorney-in-Fact Over the ALL CAPS Estate, Duly Noticed and Recorded, Perpetually Out of Reach of Any Fraudulent Presumptions. Govern yourself accordingly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2025 by Grace
i had an amazing experience with ray! he helped me to navigate the hardest time in my life and was amazingly accommodating and helpful. he truly has the experience to handle helping so well! thank you ray from the bottom of my heart. i’m forever appreciative for the help he provided.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2025 by Caitlin pierman
Ray provided exceptional service for our family, consistently treating us with the utmost respect while dedicating himself to his work. His attention to detail and commitment to excellence truly made a difference in our experience. We cannot recommend him highly enough!
Read more Google Maps
See more
Patricia Kefalas Dudek, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 230 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.
35,95
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
230 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2025 by Chris leggett
I recently had a phone consultation with Ray, and while I typically treat BAR members like I treat Federal Reserve Notes—acknowledge their existence but don’t put too much faith in them—I have to admit, this one didn't immediately trigger my "fraudulent adhesion contract" radar. A rare feat, indeed. To my surprise, Ray was knowledgeable, professional, and didn't try to gaslight me into believing I’m just another helpless soul lost in the maritime fog of presumed liability. He actually listened, provided solid insights, and—brace yourself—spoke in a way that didn’t require me to decode legalese like I’m deciphering an IRS tax form while blindfolded. Now, am I ready to swear an oath of allegiance to the BAR? Absolutely not! But did this consultation help ease my situation and clarify some key points? Yes. He may not have issued me a Letter of Marque, but at least he didn’t try to drag me back onto the pirate ship. For those navigating the choppy waters of the legal system while trying to remain in the private, this attorney might just be a safe port… or at least a dry dock that doesn’t come with an automatic lien. Would I recommend them? Let’s just say, if you ever find yourself in a legal pickle and don’t have time to hit them with an affidavit first, they might be worth a call. Just make sure you’re not unwittingly entering into a contract—because, as we know, silence can sometimes be construed as consent. -- Sincerely, but not legally binding, nor to be misconstrued as consent to any jurisdiction outside my own. Operating strictly on the land, unencumbered by fraudulent adhesion contracts, declining all offers of joinder (unless they come with a hefty payout, a zero-liability clause, and a notarized apology from the BAR). Refusing to board any Pirate Ship, lest I be mistaken for lost cargo or an involuntary surety in yet another maritime scheme. Navigating only by the true law of the land—Common Law—where my word holds more weight than a Federal Reserve Note post-1933. With all due respect (which, as we know, is contractually undefined, thus measured solely by my own good grace), Unincorporated, Unencumbered, and Unbothered—Keeper of My Own Seal and Governor of My Own Affairs. In honor of the Living Man/Woman, free from legalese, BAR sorcery, and admiralty entrapments— May your motions be granted, your contracts be voidable, and your standing be always Sui Juris. May your notices be unrebutted, your affidavits unchallenged, and your fee schedules enforced at the highest commercial rate. May every attempt at entrapment be met with a swift and merciless estoppel, and may all claims against you be dismissed with prejudice. Signed in good faith, but never in commerce, By My Own Hand and Authority, Standing as the Chief Executor, Attorney-in-Fact Over the ALL CAPS Estate, Duly Noticed and Recorded, Perpetually Out of Reach of Any Fraudulent Presumptions. Govern yourself accordingly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2025 by Grace
i had an amazing experience with ray! he helped me to navigate the hardest time in my life and was amazingly accommodating and helpful. he truly has the experience to handle helping so well! thank you ray from the bottom of my heart. i’m forever appreciative for the help he provided.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2025 by Caitlin pierman
Ray provided exceptional service for our family, consistently treating us with the utmost respect while dedicating himself to his work. His attention to detail and commitment to excellence truly made a difference in our experience. We cannot recommend him highly enough!
Read more Google Maps
See more
Anthony J. Viviani, experienced Civil Rights, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 1 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.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
22 May, 2013 by Annette
I was upside down on my home and didn't know what to do. I was referred by a friend who had worked with Tony and highly recommended him as a real estate attorney. I met with Tony and he listened to my problem and gave me some alternatives that would save my home and save me money. I remember him telling me that his motto is "getting the client to the desired outcome with the least amount of cost". Boy he sure worked that motto for me!!! He doesn't charge for phone calls or e-mails. He only charges when he does work for me. Because of that I'm never afraid to call him with a question. This guy is the real deal and a wealth of real estate knowledge. I would recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
Kim M. Hudson, experienced Civil Rights, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 1 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.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Nov, 2021 by Maria
Kim was able to take over an out-of-state Child Support and Custody case, bring it to the Michigan Wayne County court system, have it enforced, and make sense with ease! As are most family law cases, ours was tumultuous at best. Kim was kind and reassuring. She genuinely cared about the children involved and we stayed in touch for a while after everything was settled. I would
Read more Avvo
See more
Theresa A. Orlaske-Rich, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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
10 Aug, 2024 by Patience miller
Excellent estate planning services
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Aug, 2023 by Sherry mcclendon
RichLaw, PLLC has been a Godsend to my family since I first met Theresa and Brian in 2018 for my family's estate planning needs. I have another dear friend who is also a new client. Hopefully, over time others can plan for their estate planning needs for peace of mind!
Read more Google Maps
See more
Stephen M. Feldman, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 10 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.
31,99
star star star star star
4.1/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.0
9 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Jul, 2023 by Joyce grad
Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Jun, 2023 by Jonathan lowe
Knowledgeable, kind and caring estate and tax planning. High quality work product. They go above and beyond. A pleasure to deal with. Highly recommended.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Apr, 2023 by Stacy larsen
They used me and my brother and lied to us to help their client. In the meantime hurting my family deeply. Then ignored y questions I am so very upset what they did and the pain they caused without a care
Read more Google Maps
See more
Keith H. Sims, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 208 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.
30,80
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
208 Reviews
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2025 by Jerry fultz
Wow berry resnick is the man he knows the in out of drink driving laws well worth the money amazing team secretary Sharon was so helpful I recommend his team for anyone that is facing dui charges!!!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2025 by Mary dettor
If you want someone to fight for you, contact the Law Office of Glenn A. Saltsman, PLC. He will make sure you are compensated for your injuries. Thank you, Glenn and Team. ❤️
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2025 by Kouhei
It been over one year and well past the tax filing deadline but still have not recieved anything after paying. Does not respond to emails or give updates on when he'll do anything for clients.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Sanford J. Mall, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 3 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.
21,64
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Mall was recommended to my family by long-time family friends as a result of the great work he did for them. I hired Mr. Mall for my full estate planning and am extremely pleased with the result. The professionalism, thoroughness, and support of Mr. Mall and his staff were excellent. As a result, I have recommended him to many friends and will continue to do so.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 Sep, 2015 by Mary
Earlier this year we experienced a difficult and serious situation regarding my mother. My mother - who is a client of Mr. Mall's - ended up with a serious health issue that landed her in the hospital. Despite her very frail and fragile health condition, the hospital planned to discharge her, despite our family's objections on the grounds that this was neither logical nor safe. Who would have thought to contact your parent's attorney to help you in such a situation - but that is exactly what we did and I am more than grateful as Mall, Malisow & Cooney "saved the day." With their knowledgeable intervention, my mother's discharge was stopped and she was able to remain in the hospital until such time that she could be transferred to a safe place in which to recover fully. Had it not been for Mr. Mall and his extremely capable staff, I don't know what situation we would have found my mother in at this time. The entire family is forever grateful for the assistance and truly life saving measures that were provided as a result of her being a client and us being able to have the knowledgeable intervention on the part of her attorney. Many Many thanks!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I retained these lawyers after my father passed away because they developed his trust/will. $17,500 and 16 months later, his estate is still not closed. They tried to keep the estate open "just in case creditors came forward." During the entire process, I called all of the creditors myself, kept all of the documentation and provided copies to Mall, Mallisow & Cooney. I was very hands on. In hindsight it is clear to me that they took advantage of me and charged me a fortune. Needless to say, I fired them. I do NOT recommend them to anyone.
Read more Avvo
See more
Michael M. Williams, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI with 20 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.
15,48
star star star star star
3.4/5
Google Maps
3.4
20 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Jun, 2024 by The boss of me
This is not a good attorney not at all he talks big stuff but he will let you down in the end I wouldn't refer him to anyone he wants to appear big time but actually he's not don't be fooled be careful who you pick as an attorney especially this one I cannot go into details about my case with him I can only tell you to please look for someone else he's not the one
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 May, 2024 by Niecola klima
Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Mar, 2024 by Tanique “niq niq” chism
This man should be named Michigan's TOP criminal lawyer. He is kind, considerate, and has compassion. He also has reasonable prices and I appreciate Mr. Sinclair is highly recommended . I can't thank him enough.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Kathryn Gilson Sussman, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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
Sanford J. Mall, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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
Stephen M. Feldman, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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 A Coyle, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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
Matthew Alan Ferrara, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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
Harley D. Manela, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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
Samuel A. Hurwitz, experienced Elder Law, Real Estate attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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
Nancy E. Yost, experienced Civil Rights, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Carol A. Morris, experienced Elder Law, Mediation attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
James Edward Bobcik, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
James P. Lampertius, experienced Business, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Jean Michalak, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Robert W.C. Lowe, experienced Consumer Protection, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Valenton Vulaj, experienced Criminal Defense, Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Samantha Nhatrang Phan, experienced Elder Law, Government attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Arthur L. Malisow, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
John T. Sanford III, experienced Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Maria Vulaj, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Julie A. Williamson, experienced Elder Law, Estate Planning attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Margaret M. Roty, experienced Elder Law attorney in Farmington Hills, MI 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.
0,00
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