Senior citizens face unique legal challenges, from ensuring their final wishes are respected to navigating the difficult health care system. A skilled elder law attorney understands how important these issues are and has the insight to help you achieve your legal goals. Because these matters can have a major impact on your life, meet with several candidates before choosing a law firm, and remember to ask the following questions.

3 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Elder Law Attorney

1. How Long Have You Been Practicing Elder Law?

Elder law requires a specialized skill set and an in-depth understanding of the legal system. While younger attorneys are capable of providing excellent service, your estate plan and other crucial legal matters should be left in the hands of a professional with several years’ experience. They’ll anticipate problems with your will, guide you through the Medicare process, and help you plan for moving into an assisted living facility.

2. How Have You Handled Similar Cases in the Past?

Every attorney has their own approach to the law, so ask whether they have worked on similar cases and what strategy they used in those situation. This can be especially important if you have a difficult inheritance situation or complex investments, which may require advanced legal strategies.

3. Will You Be Handling My Case?

At some law firms, many cases are assigned to junior associates, or even outsourced to another office entirely. Any time you’re hiring an attorney, make sure the person you’re talking to is the one who will be handling your case. If not, ask to meet with the individual you’ll work with. Working with a single attorney ensures you receive consistent legal advice from someone with personal knowledge of your situation and an awareness of the outcome that matters most to you.

When you need help with an elder law matter, including estate planning, power of attorney, or health care proxies, trust MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C., to provide dedicated counsel. As one of the Hudson Valley’s oldest law firms, they have assisted numerous Middletown, NY, area clients since 1885. Their legal team has the background and knowledge to provide insight informed by the latest changes to the law. Visit their website for more on their elder law services, call (845) 343-3000 to schedule a consultation, and follow their Facebook for legal tips and insight.