You may have heard of the term 'elder law' and wondered what, exactly, it meant. Simply put, an elder law specialist has taken the time to learn as much as possible about any laws affecting the lives of senior citizens and their families. There are many different issues that fall under the elder law heading, but some of the most common are outlined here.

Protecting Seniors From Abuse

This is one of the most distressing examples of why you may want to consult an attorney specializing in concerns of the elderly. If you have an aged parent who is in a nursing home, receiving skilled nursing care, or being cared for by someone else and you suspect that your parent is being neglected or abused, you must consult with a litigation attorney as soon as possible who specializes in cases of elder abuse. They can give you the guidance and support you need while investigating and filing suit against the abuser or abusers. Protecting the dignity and welfare of seniors is one of the most rewarding aspects of handling legal issues for the elderly.

Helping With Financial Planning

If you're getting ready to retire, an elder law specialist who has experience in financial planning can help you develop a solid, long-term financial plan that will protect your finances while allowing you to live comfortably in your golden years. Estate lawyers can also help you choose an appropriate nursing home or assisted living facility when the time comes and oversee your finances to make sure your bills are paid and your property is handled correctly.

Estate Planning

It's crucial that a properly executed will is prepared for you in order to make sure your estate is handled properly after your death. Meeting with estate lawyers to discuss your heirs and last wishes is crucial if you have an estate of any size. A will that clearly and concisely states who will inherit what and how your estate is to be distributed can prevent your heirs from squabbling about your estate after you've passed away. Writing a will and structuring an estate in order to protect your assets even after your death is one of the most common reasons people consult with elder law attorneys.

Social Security Disputes

Social security is a financial safety net for many seniors after retirement. Depending on the monthly checks you receive from social security can be difficult, particularly if you don't feel you're receiving appropriate benefits. If you have a dispute over your social security payments, an elder law litigation attorney can represent you and protect your interests, helping you get the social security benefits you deserve.

Grandparents' Rights

Litigation attorneys can represent grandparents who have lost contact with their grandchildren through no fault of their own. A divorce or separation is always heart wrenching, but when parents use their children as weapons in an unpleasant divorce, it is often the grandparents who suffer when an unhappy parent won't let children visit grandparents who are the family of their ex-spouse. Fortunately, there are elder laws that cover such situations, and an experienced litigation attorney can work with family courts to ensure you are able to continue enjoying a relationship with your grandchildren.

If you or a loved one is facing an elder law issue, consulting with experienced estate lawyers or getting a litigation attorney who is familiar with legal issues concerning the elderly is your best bet for resolving the issue to your satisfaction.