As an elder law attorney, the pandemic has impacted my practice including my safeguards to meet with people, and our screening and thorough cleaning processes. The impact on my clientele has been devastating, both emotionally and physically; and it is a period of awakening and focus in all our lives. Statistics abound such as 800 people are dying daily in the United States with 80% of the deaths from Covid-19 for those over age 65:
During recent months, I have met with many families who have expressed concerned about their own, or a loved one’s, declining health. Their concern is magnified, given the spread of COVID-19 in nursing homes across the country. Nursing homes can certainly provide a level of care that is not always possible at home, and there are times when that is the best option for the safety of the loved one and his or her family;
When the Governor issued a list of essential services that included legal services, my office was relieved. The number of people who need legal assistance has actually increased in many ways, especially in my area during this pandemic, elder law. Statistics show as much as 80% of deaths in China were over the age of 60. Many of my current/future clients are not directly infected with the virus but may have end-of-life cancer, or other
When you reach eighteen (18) years of age in Indiana, you can legally contract and execute asset protection and estate planning such as a Last Will and Testament, a Trust, Healthcare Representative, Durable Power of Attorney, Living Will, gifting, and to designate beneficiaries on accounts, life insurance, and retirement plans. Most clients I see are couples with minor children, middle aged clients, or the elderly. Usually there is a “trigger” that prompts them to accelerate
If you plan to leave a sizeable traditional retirement account to your heirs, you may want to schedule an appointment with your estate attorney and your financial planner/accountant. The Secure Act (“Setting Every Community up for Retirement Enhancement”) was passed in 2019 and became effective on January 1, 2020. It pulled the rug out from under people who planned, and saved, for years under tax rules that were considered to be certain and established. These