East Hanover New Jersey Elder Law Blog
Mistakes to avoid when naming a guardian for your loved one
You have a dependent relative who is precious to you, and you naturally want to secure their future -- even if you aren’t here to see it. But picking a guardian in case you aren’t around to take care of your parent, mentally-impaired relative or special needs child...
Why funding a trust with your home can protect it as you age
Having your name on the title to your home can be a source of intense pride. Many people can think back to the day that they signed the deed that made them the official owner of their property. The thought of taking your name off of one of your most important assets...
Early plans for long-term care can protect your family and legacy
Far too many people put off important long-term care planning tasks until the last minute. It is unquestionably unpleasant to have to consider not only the potential for your future death but also the health decline that often comes with advanced age. It is a common...
What all New Jersey families should learn about conservatorships
The two terms guardianships and conservatorships often confuse families in need of solutions for their elder loved ones. In some states, these two terms mean the same thing, but in New Jersey, there are some subtle, yet important, differences. Our estate planning and...
Qualifying for Medicaid means finding the proper allowance
Planning for Medicaid can be a complicated undertaking, especially when it comes to meeting low asset limits. Getting rid of all your assets outright doesn’t seem like a sensible solution, and it may not be necessary. Medicaid provides coverage for millions, but the...
Advance directives for hospice care
The final stages of a terminal illness can be an emotionally charged time for patients and their loved ones. Hospice care is a program designed for those who have a terminal illness with six months or less to live. Rather than trying to cure a disease, hospice aims to...
Signs a child may need long-term support
Parents often have the goal of raising their children to be capable and independent adults. Sadly, that is not always the case for everyone. Some families may have a child that has a severe mental disability and is unable to care for themselves. Depending on the...
Finding the right guardian for children with severe autism
Parents of children with level three autism often want to find someone who is responsible and capable enough to watch over their child if both of them were to die. According to the DSM-5, those with the condition often have a hard time communicating verbally and...
Avoid guardianship hell with advance planning now
Here in New Jersey, many elder law attorneys still marvel at the case of Ada Vocino, which happened about five years ago. From all appearances, she had a loving relationship with her only child, Patricia. When the time came for Ada to give up her financial...
Advance directive: protecting your wishes for medical care
You may not want to think about your future medical needs. But illness or injury could leave you unable to speak or understand what is going on. Your loved ones may need to decide on what care you want without knowing your wishes. To ensure that your family and your...
