There may be a certain appeal to establishing joint ownership in property, primarily because it allows the other person to automatically inherit that property without the need for probate. For that reason, seniors often create bank accounts naming spouses or family members as joint owners, or add a relatives name to real estate. But there are a few reasons why this may not be the best option. Our elder law attorneys warn against using this technique as part of your estate planning. Transferring … [Read more...] about Elder Law Attorneys Warn of the Pitfalls of Joint Ownership

There are court procedures established in every state to provide for the legally authorized care of an individual who is unable to care for themselves.  For minor children who no longer have a parent available to care for them, a guardianship can be established.  However, in California, if an adult needs someone to manage their care, a conservatorship is required. If you believe you may need to have a conservatorship established, here are some general facts about a conservatorship in … [Read more...] about Sacramento Conservatorship Facts

When a loved one suffers a mental impairment, it is only a matter of time before they need help taking care of their own personal and financial affairs. Some of the common signs of diminished capacity include disorientation and memory loss. If you begin to see these signs, it may be time to consider taking steps to provide necessary care. It would be best, however, to make plans ahead of time.  Whichever course you take, there will be many difficult issues ahead, but an experienced and qualified … [Read more...] about Elder Law Attorneys Handle Difficult Elder Law Issues

It is important to remember, what every elder law attorney knows, that elder abuse is not limited to physical abuse or neglect.  Another common type of elder abuse is financial in nature. Unfortunately, the elderly are often more susceptible to abuse because of diminished capacity. One of the most frequent causes of financial elder abuse is the use of undue influence.  An elder law attorney knows how to recognize the signs of this and other types of elder abuse. Why elder financial abuse often … [Read more...] about Investigating Undue Influence in Elder Abuse in California

Nursing home care can be very expensive.  Many private health insurance policies don't cover these long-term care services. For California residents who need long-term care, Medi-Cal is the most common source of funding. In fact, Medi-Cal covers nursing home care expenses of nearly 65% of Californians residing in nursing homes. However, applying for and receiving assistance from Medi-Cal takes planning.  Getting your parents prepared for the potential need for long-term health care, nursing home … [Read more...] about Nursing Home Planning for Seniors

Simply because you are particularly healthy at the moment, that does not mean you won't eventually need long-term care in the future.  This is a common misconception shared by some Sacramento residents.  You may not have health issues right now, but how can you predict how healthy you will be in 30 years?  In fact, an unexpected injury could leave you with health issues that ultimately require long-term care, as well.  More than two-thirds of all residents over the age of 65 need long-term care … [Read more...] about Understanding the Medi-Cal Process