As the population of the world begins to age, unique legal problems have started to occur on a large scale. Elderly and disabled individuals are often targeted for various forms of fraud or are victims of different types of caregiver abuse. Elder law has become more important than ever, as the more vulnerable members of our society find themselves in need of age-specific protections along with assistance planning for their future. If you or someone close to you needs this type of legal advice, keep the following tips for choosing an elder law lawyer in mind.
Relevant Experience
Not every attorney has the same level of experience, and some may have no familiarity with the type of issues that are important to you. When searching for attorneys, make sure the one you choose has assisted clients with needs similar to your own. A well-reviewed attorney who has never handled probate or established a trust fund may not be able to provide you with the type of help you need. Making a list of issues you are concerned about (Medicaid, SSI, conservatorships, living wills, etc.) before going to your first consultation will help to ensure that you ask the right questions.
Find Out Who Will Handle Your Legal Needs
Some law firms, especially bigger ones, treat clients like commodities and do not provide much personalized service. Often, clients work with paralegals or legal secretaries without seeing an attorney until the end of the process, if ever. Find out if a specific attorney will handle your needs and if you will meet with him or her at any part of the process. If you are someone who was drawn to a specific lawyer or are retaining an attorney based on a recommendation, it is good to make sure that lawyer will be helping you once you become a client.
Check Credentials
A few years ago, West Palm Beach found itself featured in national news stories after an 18-year-old was arrested for pretending to be a doctor. The story drew attention to how important it is to check the credentials of service providers instead of trusting to professional-appearing websites and third-party review services. When you are searching for an elder law attorney, always take the time to check the credentials. Make sure the person you are consulting is licensed to practice law in your state so that you can enjoy the confidence that comes with being represented by an educated professional.
MMZ Law
Founded by Marivel M. Zialcita, MMZ Law provides elder law representation to clients in Claremont, California and Southern California. Ms. Ziacita graduated from California Western School of Law, and for 14 years MMZ Law has provided clients with compassionate legal representation. Our team is ready to answer all of the questions you have pertaining to elder law, estate planning, and probate. We can assist you with your legal needs and guide you through each step in the estate planning process. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation so that we can begin providing you with the legal advice you deserve.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
MMZ LAW, A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION
341 W. 1st St. Suite 100
Claremont, CA 91711
MARIVEL M. ZIALCITA is the founder of MMZ LAW, A Professional Corporation, where she practices in the areas of Elder Law – Medi-Cal Planning Asset Protection, Trust & Estate, Special Needs, Conservatorship, Trust Administration, & Probate. Ms. Zialcita is a frequent speaker on trust and estate matters and holds memberships in the State Bar of California, Trust and Estate Section, The San Bernardino County Bar Association, Wealth Counsel and Elder Counsel. She currently assists in the pro bono legal services program at the James L. Brulte Senior Center in Rancho Cucamonga, California. She is based in Claremont but assists clients throughout Southern California.
This information is educational information only and not legal advice.