An Encino estate planning attorney can work with you on a variety of plans for the future. However, that’s not the only way in which they may be of service. Sometimes, there are immediate needs that must be addressed.
A qualified estate planning attorney can often assist you with these matters. At the Law Offices of Andrew Cohen, Encino immediate family care needs attorney Andrew Cohen handles cases involving:
Special needs trusts
A person may struggle to qualify for government-provided disability benefits if they own relatively substantial assets. Asset ownership may prevent a disabled individual from qualifying for Medicare, Medicaid, disability benefits, etc.
To address this roadblock, a disabled individual may establish a special needs trust. Doing so essentially transfers ownership of their assets to a trustee. The trustee manages the assets according to the wishes of the disabled person who established the trust. This allows the disabled individual to benefit from their assets while also qualifying for public assistance.
Guardianships
Establishing a guardianship for a minor child may be necessary in a variety of circumstances. For example, a court may establish a guardianship if a child’s parents pass away, if their parents abandon them, or if there is reason to believe a child’s parents will not be able to care for them in a proper or appropriate manner.
Conservatorship
For various reasons, such as mental illness, physical illness, or old age, some adults may be unable to make responsible financial decisions, care for themselves, and generally function independently throughout their lives without proper assistance. The process of conservatorship grants a qualified individual the legal right and authority to make certain decisions on behalf of such a person. Those who may potentially serve as conservators of incapacitated people include spouses, relatives, close friends, and some private professionals.
Power of attorney
Someone who has been granted power of attorney has the authority to act in certain capacities on behalf of the person who granted them power of attorney, known as the principal. The specific decisions someone with power of attorney can make will vary depending on the degree to which they’ve been given broad or limited authority. An individual with power of attorney may potentially make decisions regarding the principal’s medical care, property, and finances.
Durable power of attorney
The principal who grants someone power of attorney may one day become incapacitated. A durable power of attorney arrangement ensures the original power of attorney agreement remains in effect should this occur.
These are among the primary issues an Encino lawyer specializing in immediate family care needs can help you manage. If you’re not sure whether such an attorney can assist you in your particular circumstances, schedule a meeting with one to discuss your needs in greater detail.
Contact an Encino Immediate Family Care Needs Attorney Today
At the Law Offices of Andrew Cohen, you’ll find an attorney and team dedicated to properly addressing your immediate family care needs. We will thoroughly review all relevant details to ensure we’re prepared to offer reliable service. Get started today by calling us at 661-481-0100 or contacting us online to schedule your free consultation.
