Elder Law

Dedicated Probate and Estate Planning Lawyer Advising Indianapolis Residents

At Adler Law LLC, we understand that the needs of older people seeking legal services are complex and distinctive, requiring insights into diverse areas of law. With 20 years of experience to guide him, Indianapolis elder law lawyer Michael J. Adler can advise his clients on matters such as Medicaid planning, trust and will formation, estate administration and litigation, and more. Mr. Adler appreciates that these matters not only require personalized attention to detail but also a trusted attorney-client relationship that values your privacy. As a knowledgeable probate and estate planning attorney, he is prepared to protect your interests with the dedication that you deserve.

Representation in Complex Elder Law Matters

For many people, estate planning will include the execution of a will. This instrument allows for assets and property to be distributed according to its terms. It may also name the person whom you wish to serve as guardian for your minor children, and it may designate an individual to administer your will. Without a will, probate property passes to heirs as provided by the Indiana laws of intestacy, which may not reflect your intentions.

Probate administration refers to the legal proceedings involved in settling a decedent’s estate and transferring property to devisees and heirs. Our elder law attorney can guide Indianapolis residents through this process. Property subject to probate is that which does not pass to others pursuant to designation, such as an insurance or retirement plan, or ownership, such as bank accounts held jointly with rights of survivorship. Many people seek to avoid the probate process because it can be lengthy, expensive, and public. This may be accomplished by identifying all of the assets and property that you own and transferring them into non-probate property. The creation of a living trust may be advantageous in developing your estate plan, since you may still have control and ownership of the trust property during your lifetime, while it is not subject to probate upon your death. An estate attorney can provide more information regarding strategies to achieve your goals in the planning process.

Medicaid and Health Care Planning

Medicaid is a government health care program designed to assist individuals with limited financial resources, providing many additional benefits that are not covered by Medicare. Thorough Medicaid planning involves a careful examination with the assistance of an Indianapolis elder law attorney of one’s health care needs and finances, as well as an understanding of all the legal requirements for eligibility. In many instances, maintaining eligibility for Medicaid benefits, while still preserving your assets for your loved ones, may be achieved by transferring your property into an irrevocable trust.

As you age, health care concerns and the exertion of your daily activities may require adjustments. There may be instances in which appointing a power of attorney is necessary to accomplish your needs, and this instrument can be drafted to define the scope and extent of your power of attorney’s authority. In addition, a health care directive may be created to clearly express your wishes regarding medical treatment in situations in which you are unable to communicate or make such decisions. Discussing your concerns with an elder law attorney can be beneficial in determining which options are right for you.

Consult an Elder Law Attorney

A skilled legal professional can be an invaluable resource in preparing for the future of you and your family. Indianapolis lawyer Michael J. Adler has considerable experience providing legal guidance to individuals in a range of issues. He can advise people who need a probate attorney or guidance in sophisticated estate planning, Medicaid planning, or estate and probate litigation matters. Adler Law LLC serves residents of Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Westfield, Zionsville, Greenwood and other communities in Boone, Marion, Hamilton, Johnson and Vigo Counties. Call us at (317) 635-7880 or contact us online to set up a consultation with an elder law lawyer in Indianapolis.