What Is Elder Law?
Elder law is a specialized area of legal practice that focuses on the needs of aging individuals and their families. It encompasses a range of legal issues that become increasingly important later in life, including estate planning, healthcare directives, incapacity planning, long-term care options, and eligibility for public benefits. At Thomas N. Scheffel & Associates, P.C. (TNS Associates), our elder law attorneys offer compassionate, knowledgeable guidance to help seniors and their loved ones navigate these complex matters with confidence and clarity.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common areas addressed in elder law:
Powers of Attorney
A power of attorney allows an individual (the “principal”) to authorize someone else (the “agent”) to act on their behalf in financial or medical matters. Establishing a durable power of attorney is a crucial step in planning for incapacity, ensuring that trusted individuals can step in when the principal is unable to make decisions.
Advance Directives for Medical/Surgical Treatment
Advance directives enable individuals to express their wishes about the kind of medical care they want—or do not want—in the event they are unable to communicate. This includes living wills and medical durable powers of attorney, both of which provide essential guidance for families and medical professionals during difficult times.
Guardianships and Conservatorships
If a person becomes mentally or physically incapacitated and has not appointed an agent through a power of attorney, the court may appoint a guardian (for personal and healthcare decisions) or conservator (for financial affairs). TNS Associates helps families navigate the legal requirements for petitioning the court and managing these responsibilities.
Medicaid Planning and Eligibility
One of the most pressing concerns for seniors and their families is how to pay for long-term care without depleting life savings. Medicaid planning involves legally structuring assets and income to help an individual qualify for Medicaid benefits, which can help cover the cost of nursing home care. Our attorneys guide clients through the application process, asset protection strategies, and compliance with federal and state regulations.
Estate and Long-Term Care Planning
While elder law and estate planning often overlap, elder law specifically emphasizes the importance of planning for the possibility of diminished capacity and long-term care needs. This includes drafting wills and trusts, evaluating living arrangements, and identifying sustainable solutions for healthcare, housing, and financial management.
Support for Family Caregivers
Elder law attorneys also work with family caregivers to ensure they understand their legal responsibilities and are supported in managing the care of aging loved ones. This may involve counseling on financial decisions, legal authority, or resolving disputes that may arise within families regarding care or finances.
How We Empower You
Elder law matters can be emotionally and legally complex. At TNS Associates, we don’t just provide legal services—we build relationships based on trust, compassion, and respect. Our firm was founded on the principle of empowering clients to make informed, sustainable decisions that protect their well-being and preserve their legacy. We view each case as unique and offer tailored legal strategies that reflect the specific goals and values of our clients.
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you’re planning ahead or facing an urgent need for legal guidance, we’re here to help. Contact TNS Associates today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced elder law attorneys in Denver.