When Should I Hire an Elder Law Attorney? Signs It’s Time to Call for Help

Aging brings many joys, but it also comes with challenges, especially when planning for the future. Legal and financial matters can become overwhelming, and sometimes, professional guidance is essential.

For over 30 years, Bassett Murray Law Group, PLLC, has helped Michigan families with estate planning, probate, and guardianship. We understand when legal help is necessary and are here to assist.

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to consult an elder law attorney, recognizing the signs early can make all the difference. Here’s what to look for before legal issues become urgent.

Important Signs You Need an Elder Law Attorney

Life changes quickly, and legal problems can sneak up on you. Many people don’t think about hiring an elder law attorney until they’re in the middle of a crisis. But acting early can save time, money, and stress.

1. The Need for Proactive Estate Planning

If you’re over 55 and haven’t put an estate plan in place, now is the time. Even if you feel healthy and independent, an elder law attorney can help you set up:

• A will to make sure your assets go to the right people
• A trust to protect your estate from probate and potential tax burdens
• Power of attorney documents to ensure someone you trust can make medical or financial decisions for you if you can’t

Waiting too long could mean expensive court battles or unintended consequences for your loved ones. Planning early makes things easier down the road.

2. Health Concerns and Cognitive Decline

A diagnosis of dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or another degenerative condition means you need to take action immediately. 

Without the right legal documents in place, decisions about your health and finances could end up in the hands of a court instead of the people you trust.

Here’s what should be done right away:

• Medical power of attorney – Gives someone the ability to make healthcare decisions for you if you’re unable
• Financial power of attorney – Allows a trusted person to handle your bills, banking, and other financial matters
• Trust updates – Protects your assets and ensures they are managed according to your wishes

3. Long-Term Care Needs

Thinking about nursing homes or assisted living might feel overwhelming, but waiting until a crisis hits can be financially devastating. Medicaid planning is complicated, and Michigan has its own set of rules that differ from federal guidelines. 

Many people mistakenly assume they must spend everything they have before qualifying for benefits. However, that is not always the case.

An elder law attorney can help you:

• Protect your home and assets while still qualifying for Medicaid
• Ensure a smooth transition to a nursing home or assisted living facility
• Avoid Medicaid penalties caused by financial missteps

4. Financial Protection Against Exploitation

Elder financial abuse is a real problem, and it’s often family members or trusted individuals who take advantage of older adults. Warning signs include:

• Unexplained large withdrawals or financial transactions
• Changes to a will or trust that seem suspicious
• A new “friend” suddenly becoming involved in financial decisions

If something doesn’t seem right, an elder law attorney can investigate suspicious activity, put legal protections in place, and take action against financial predators. 

5. Family Disputes and Mediation

When families disagree about an aging loved one’s care or estate decisions, things can get messy—fast. Emotions run high, and family conflicts can tear relationships apart. An elder law attorney can step in as a neutral third party to help:

• Mediate disagreements over medical care or estate matters
• Put a clear care plan in place that everyone can agree on
• Ensure a loved one’s wishes are legally upheld

If family disputes are becoming stressful or unmanageable, an attorney can help bring peace of mind to a difficult situation.

6. Complex Legal Issues

Elder law isn’t just about wills and estate planning. It also includes handling government benefits like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and Veteran’s benefits. 

Each program has its own set of rules, and making a mistake in the application process could lead to lost benefits or unnecessary expenses.

An elder law attorney can help with:

• Appealing denied benefits
• Setting up guardianships or conservatorships for loved ones who can’t make decisions for themselves

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by government red tape, getting legal help can ensure nothing gets missed.

Contact Bassett Murray Law Group for Estate Planning Guidance

If you are experiencing any of these situations we’ve discussed, it’s time to talk to an elder law attorney before a crisis happens. 

At Bassett Murray Law Group, PLLC, we are committed to protecting Michigan families and are invested in improving lives.

Whether you need estate planning, Medicaid guidance, or legal help for a loved one, our team is here to help. Call us today at 734-930-9200 in Ann Arbor or 231-427-2292 for our Petoskey office. 

Your family’s future deserves the right legal protection—don’t wait until it’s too late.