Since 1963’s Presidential Proclamation, the month of May has been recognized as the month we show support for older Americans. The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) has embraced this proclamation and designated May as the National Elder Law Month to acknowledge the profession that supports the senior community with all their planning and legal needs.

NAELA members are attorneys who are experienced and trained in working with the legal problems of aging Americans and individuals of all ages who have special needs. The Russo Law Group, P.C. is proud to have a history of serving in a leadership role in Elder Law at the state and national levels. Partners of our firm have and currently serve on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors of NAELA at the national level, and on the Board of Directors of New York NAELA at the state level.

The managing partner of our firm, Vincent J. Russo, JD, LL.M., CELA, is a Founding Member, Fellow and Fifth President of NAELA and is a Founding Member and First President of the New York Chapter of NAELA. Vincent is also a Founding Member and Past Chair of the Elder Law Section of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA).

Although Elder Law Attorneys throughout the country educate seniors about their legal options throughout the communities they serve every day, we highlight and honor these efforts during the month of May.

Given the growing aging population in the United States, the need for elder law awareness and education on the legal issues this population face is more important than ever.

In addition to awareness and education, we as Elder Law attorneys provide advocacy, guidance, and services that enhance the lives of seniors and people with disabilities.

Here are a few of the major issues that arise where an Elder Law attorney can be of assistance:

• Health and personal care planning, including Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies, HIPAA Authorizations, and Living Wills;
• Medicaid planning
• Veteran’s benefits
• Long-term care and asset protection planning
• Estate planning
• Special Needs Trusts
• Guardianship and guardianship avoidance
• Elder abuse and exploitation
• Tax planning
• Social Security (SSDI and SSI)
• Retirement planning
• Estate and Trust Administration

Considering the broad scope of legal and ethical issues faced by seniors today, Elder Law attorneys are an important resource for clients because we understand that the needs of seniors, individuals with special needs, and their families, go beyond general legal advice and document preparation.

Join us in celebrating National Elder Law Month throughout the month of May. Please take advantage of our educational materials and feel free to contact us to learn how we can help you and your family.