If your parent has been diagnosed with dementia, they may be able to live on their own for now, but over time they will not be able to. Because of this, you need to be ready for the future. In order to do this, you may need the help of an elder law attorney at some point. To help you know, below are three services they can offer you.
1. Help with Probate Issues
If your parent set up a will before they become ill there may be family members that try to dispute the will once your parent passes away In a case like this, the only people that can legally dispute a will are people that are listed in the will. Still, this is a very hard process for someone to prove to a judge that the will is set up incorrectly. In most cases, it will not be changed.
If people in your family are trying to dispute a will then an elder law attorney needs to be called in immediately. The attorney can prevent much larger problems within your family by putting a stop to the dispute.
2. Protect from Financial Abuse
Someone in your family, friends, or your parent's caregiver will have some access to their money. Because of this, there may be someone that will manipulate your parent many ways to gain access to their finances.
There may be financial predators that call your parent. For example, a company may coerce your parent into selling their home or making large purchases.
If you notice anything like this, you will have to stand up for your parent and take control by contacting an elder law attorney.
3. Give You Guardianship
When your parent can no longer take care of themselves, including making good healthcare and financial decisions, you will need to take over completely. To do this, you will need to go to court to gain guardianship of your parent. Once this is approved, you will have complete control over your parent's finances, healthcare, and more.
This process is not easy and should be something you never try on your own. This is because you have to prove to the court that your parent needs you as their guardian. This is why an elder law attorney should be contacted. They know the proper steps to take so you can get through the process faster.
4. Help with Probate Issues
If your parent set up a will before they become ill there may be family members that try to dispute the will once your parent passes away In a case like this, the only people that can legally dispute a will are people that are listed in the will. Still, this is a very hard process for someone to prove to a judge that the will is set up incorrectly. In most cases, it will not be changed.
If people in your family are trying to dispute a will, then an elder law attorney needs to be called in immediately. The attorney can prevent much larger problems within your family by putting a stop to the dispute.
Talk with an elder law attorney in your area now before you need them. This way you will have elder law attorneys ready if something happens and you need their services in the future.
