Elder Law Lawyer in Amherst, New Hampshire
Protecting your future and your loved ones
Elder law helps older adults and their families make clear legal and practical decisions before a health issue, long-term care need, or incapacity problem forces those decisions under pressure. At Sowerby & Moustakis Law, that work often includes Medicaid planning, long-term care planning, powers of attorney, guardianship and conservatorship issues, and protecting assets while building a plan that will still work when a family actually needs to rely on it.
For many families, the hardest part is not knowing where to start. A parent may be declining, care may be getting more expensive, or the family may realize the existing documents are outdated or incomplete. Elder law planning helps bring structure to that moment so the right people can act, the options are clearer, and avoidable delay, confusion, and court involvement are less likely.
What is Elder Law?
Elder law encompasses a range of legal services designed to meet the needs of older adults. From planning for long-term care to protecting your assets and ensuring your healthcare wishes are honored, elder law provides a framework for securing your future and safeguarding your legacy.
Key Areas of Elder Law
Long-Term Care Planning
Long-term care can be a significant financial burden. We help you plan for the cost of care, whether through Medicaid planning, long-term care insurance, or other strategies. Our goal is to ensure you receive the care you need without depleting your life savings.
Medicaid Planning
Qualifying for Medicaid can be complicated, especially when trying to protect your assets. We’ll guide you through the Medicaid application process, helping you structure your finances to meet eligibility requirements while preserving as much of your estate as possible.
Guardianship & Conservatorship
If a loved one becomes unable to manage their own affairs due to illness or incapacity, establishing guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary. We assist families in navigating this sensitive process, ensuring that the best interests of your loved one are always prioritized.
Powers of Attorney & Advance Directives
It’s crucial to have legal documents in place that designate someone you trust to make financial and healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. We’ll help you create powers of attorney and advance healthcare directives that reflect your wishes and provide clear guidance for your loved ones.
Estate Planning for Older Adults
Estate planning is a critical component of elder law. As you age, it’s important to ensure that your will, trusts, and other estate planning documents are up to date and aligned with your current wishes and circumstances. We’ll review and update your estate plan as needed, providing you with peace of mind
The Elder Law Process
We understand that planning for the future can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with complex legal issues. That’s why we’re here to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible:
Initial
Consultation
We begin by discussing your goals, concerns, and current situation. We’ll review your financial and healthcare needs, as well as any legal documents you already have in place.
Developing
a Plan
Based on our initial discussion, we’ll develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs. Whether you’re focused on Medicaid planning, long-term care, or updating your estate plan, we’ll guide you through each step.
Implementation
and Follow-Up
Once your plan is in place, we’ll help you implement it, ensuring that all legal documents are properly executed. We’ll also discuss the importance of reviewing your plan regularly to keep it aligned with any changes in your life or the law.
“Peter met with us three times to understand what we needed and walk us through the draft documents before signing. We never felt rushed and he answered all our questions clearly.”
- JULIE T.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Elder Law
When should I start planning for long-term care?
It’s never too early to start planning for long-term care. The earlier you begin, the more options you’ll have for protecting your assets and ensuring you receive the care you need.
Can I still qualify for Medicaid if I have savings?
Yes, but qualifying for Medicaid often requires careful planning. We’ll help you structure your assets to meet Medicaid’s eligibility requirements while preserving as much of your estate as possible.
What happens if I don’t have a power of attorney?
Without a power of attorney, your loved ones may need to go to court to gain the authority to manage your affairs if you become incapacitated. Establishing a power of attorney now can save your family time, money, and stress in the future.
“Peter is wonderful to work with! He is knowledgeable and has a clear, concise, and peaceful demeanor that helps client's peace of mind. Would 100% recommend!”
- DETERMINED MARTIAL ARTS
