Brookline Elder Law & Estate Planning Attorney

Planning for the "What Ifs" of Long-Term Care

Many of our conversations with our clients start with a sense of worry. People are often concerned about the rising cost of care and how those expenses might impact the home they have spent a lifetime paying for. There is a common misconception that you have to lose everything to receive quality care, but that is rarely the case when you plan ahead.

Our work in elder law is about more than just numbers; it is about dignity. We help you explore how to remain in your home for as long as possible, or how to transition into a care facility without depleting your life savings. We look at the practicalities of in-home care and the financial structures that support it.

Understanding the MassHealth Landscape

One of the biggest hurdles families face is the complexity of the Medicaid (MassHealth) system. It can feel like a maze of regulations and look-back periods that seem designed to confuse. We break these rules down into plain English. Our goal is to help you understand how the system works so you can make informed choices about your long-term care planning. By addressing these issues now, we can help protect your home and your savings for your spouse and your children.

Building a Foundation with Thoughtful Estate Planning

We often hear from people who feel they aren't "wealthy enough" to need an estate plan. In reality, estate planning is for anyone who wants to avoid leaving their family with a legal mess. A well-constructed plan is a gift of clarity. It prevents the confusion and public nature of a court-supervised process and allows your wishes to be the final word.

Beyond the Basic Will

While a Will is a foundational piece of the puzzle, many find that a Trust offers the privacy and control they need. Trusts allow you to manage how and when your assets are distributed, which is particularly helpful if you have younger children or a family member with special needs. We help you weigh the benefits of various legal tools to find the ones that reflect your priorities.

Protecting Your Health & Finances

A comprehensive plan also addresses what happens if you are ever in a position where you cannot speak for yourself. 

We help you establish:

• Healthcare proxies. Naming a person you trust to make medical decisions if you are unable to.
• Durable power of attorneys. Appointing someone to handle your financial matters, supporting the payment of bills and the management of your property.
• Living wills. Clearly stating your preferences for end-of-life care so your family doesn't have to guess during a difficult time.