01
Initial Consultation
Meet with you to hear your goals and what you need to achieve.
Special Needs Law
We are dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and the families who love them. Our team helps you build a plan that protects your loved one’s benefits, independence, and quality of life for years to come.
Guardianship 17-A
Supplemental Needs Trusts
Long-Term Planning
Guardianship Planning
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. Take legal action to become your child's guardian.
Our Guardianship Attorney Will:
- 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.
Wills and Estate Planning
Supplemental Needs Trusts
Planning for a child with a disability can help preserve government benefits while providing financial security for the future.
02
Customized Estate Plan
Our attorney will craft a plan that aligns with your family's unique circumstances.
03
Draft Legal Documents
Prepare documents, including a Supplemental Needs Trust (Special Needs Trust), Last Will & Testament, and other documents.
04
Finalize Documentation
Coordinate with other professionals to implement your plan.
05
Ongoing Updates
We review and adjust your plan as laws and needs change.
Common Questions
Answers to What Families Ask Most
Clear answers to common questions about Article 17-A guardianship, Supplemental 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.
The guardianship process can be lengthy. Typically, it is advisable to start the process at 17 years old. 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.
Community Education
Guardianship and Special Needs Planning Seminar
Our attorneys regularly present educational seminars for parents, schools, care managers, and community organizations.
Our goal is to make complicated legal topics easier to understand so families can confidently make informed decisions.
These presentations can help families better understand guardianship, special needs planning, government benefits, trusts, and other important legal considerations.
Our Practice Areas
01
Elder Law & Medicaid Planning
Thoughtful guidance on long-term care, Medicaid eligibility, asset protection, and the legal matters that come with aging.
02
Wills & Trusts
Estate planning documents designed to protect your assets, honor your wishes, and provide for the people you love.
03
Probate & Administration
Support with probate filings, administration, asset transfers and executor responsibilities.
04
Guardianship
Court representation and protection for loved ones who can no longer make personal or financial decisions on their own.
05
Special Needs Law
Experienced counsel in guardianship and special needs planning. Protecting your child's well-being and the essential benefits they rely on.
06
Wrongful Death Compromise
Guidance for families dealing with the legal and financial consequences following the loss of a loved one.
Special Needs Planning Guidance
Need Help Planning Ahead?
Special needs planning involves important decisions about guardianship, government benefits, trusts, and long-term care. Get clear legal guidance to help protect your loved one’s future and your family’s peace of mind.