Since 1963’s Presidential Proclamation, May has been recognized as the month we show support for older Americans. The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys has embraced this proclamation and declared May as National Elder Law Month. Annually, Elder Law Attorneys across the country educate seniors about their legal options throughout the communities they serve.
In addition to education, Elder Law attorneys provide advocacy, guidance, and services that enhance the lives of seniors and people with disabilities. Here are a few of the major issues that arise where an Elder Law attorney can be of assistance:
- Incapacity planning – financial and medical powers of attorney
- Tax planning
- Estate planning
- Medicaid planning
- Veterans benefits
- Long-term care
- Social Security (SSDI and SSI)
- Special Needs Trusts
- Conservatorship and guardianship
- Elder abuse and exploitation
- Retirement planning – beneficiary designations, death benefits, and spousal benefits
- Estate and Trust Administration
Kristen R. Matthews, CELA, works closely with individuals & families on a wide variety of estate and trust planning and long-term care matters. Kristen is accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs to assist veterans with qualifying for the Aid & Attendance Pension, which is a monthly cash payment to wartime veterans and their spouses that can be used to offset today’s high-cost medical expenses. Kristen has also achieved the designation of Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) from the National Elder Law Foundation. The CELA designation is recognized and authorized by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court and is only awarded to attorneys who have demonstrated extensive experience in practicing in the areas of estate planning and elder law, passed a day-long exam, and received recommendations from other attorneys who specialize in the field.
To learn more about Kristen’s practice email her at [email protected],
or call her at (610) 840-0272.