Special Needs Planning With Care
Our special needs department is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities. We strive to help Brooklyn families navigate the complex landscape of raising a child with developmental disabilities.
Article 17-A Guardianship
When a child turns 18, they become their own legal decision-maker, even if they are unable to safely make medical, financial, or personal decisions independently.
- 01 Determine whether 17-A Guardianship or an alternative is appropriate.
- 02 Prepare and file all required paperwork.
- 03 Support you through the court process.
- 04 Prepare alternatives to Guardianship when appropriate: Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy, and HIPAA Release.
Supplemental Needs Trusts
Planning for a child with a disability can help preserve government benefits while providing financial security for the future.
Initial Consultation
Meet with you to hear your goals and what you need to achieve.
Customized Estate Plan
Our attorney will craft a plan that aligns with your family's unique circumstances.
Draft Legal Documents
Draft comprehensive documents including a Supplemental Needs Trust (also known as a Special Needs Trust), a Last Will and Testament, and other necessary documents.
Finalize Documentation
Coordinate with other professionals to implement your plan.
Ongoing Updates
We review and adjust your plan as laws and needs change.
If a settlement or inheritance is threatening your benefits, we can help.
If a sum of money lands in your name, opening the right trust can help protect your government benefits.
Answers to What Families Ask Most
Clear answers to common questions Brooklyn families may have about Article 17-A guardianship, Special Needs Trusts, government benefits, and long-term planning.
It depends on the individual's abilities and level of independence. When your child turns 18, they are legally an adult, and your authority as a parent does not automatically continue.
If your child is unable to make important medical, financial, or personal decisions independently, guardianship may be necessary.
Generally, around age 17. Starting early allows time to obtain the necessary evaluations, prepare the required paperwork, and begin the court process before your child turns 18.
Guardianship can also be pursued after age 18, but planning in advance helps ensure that your child has a legally authorized decision-maker in place when needed.
Parents should have a plan for someone to step in if they can no longer care for or make decisions for their child.
A standby or backup guardian can provide that continuity. Naming someone in advance ensures that a trusted person is legally prepared to step in and help protect your child if you are no longer able to do so.
Yes, but the inheritance must be structured properly. Leaving money directly to a child who receives means-tested benefits, such as Medicaid or SSI, can affect their eligibility.
A properly drafted Supplemental Needs Trust can allow your child to benefit from an inheritance while helping preserve eligibility for important government benefits.
No. Estate planning is important for every family, and special needs planning is particularly important when you have a child who may need ongoing support.
Proper planning can help protect your child’s government benefits, provide for their financial future, and ensure that trusted individuals are prepared to step in when needed. A Will and properly structured Supplemental Needs Trust are important parts of that plan.
Personal Injury Legal Guidance
When an accident leaves you injured, understanding your legal options can help you make informed decisions about what comes next.
Personal injury claims can involve medical treatment, insurance companies, documentation, negotiations, and important legal deadlines.
Moskowitz Legal Group helps injured clients understand the personal injury process, their rights, and the steps involved in pursuing a claim.
Questions About Your Injury Claim?
Speak with Moskowitz Legal Group about your situation and learn more about the legal options available to you.