Elder Law

The most unique characteristic of elder law is that the practice distinguishes itself by the needs of the population it serves – elders – rather than by a specific doctrine. Elder law attorneys often engage in estate planning, retirement, end-of-life decisions, long term care planning, and guardianship. Many elder law attorneys specialize in assisting clients with government benefits, including Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

Elder law attorneys often work for medical and other specialized institutions, including nursing homes, assisted living centers, continuing care communities, hospitals, and the state and federal agencies that regulate them.

Elder law attorneys are expected to handle the critical emotional and physical needs of older clients, particularly those with disabilities. The practice includes planning for important financial goals and needs, but also issues affecting the day-to-day issues involving the care and quality of life of elders.A concentration program in elder law is available through the Center for Excellence in Elder Law.

Resources

Competitions

• The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel Mary Moers Wenig Student Writing Competition

Full-Time Faculty Focusing on this Pathway

• Bobbi Kemp Flowers
• Mark Bauer
• Rebecca C. Morgan

Librarians

• Wanita Scroggs

News

• Elder Law Prof Blog
• Health Law Prof Blog
• Probate and Property Magazine
• Wills, Trusts & Estates Prof Blog

Professional Organizations

• American Association of Trusts, Estates and Elder Law Attorneys (AATEELA)
• National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys
• National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys
• The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel
• The Florida Bar Elder Law Section
• The Florida Bar Health Law Section
• The Florida Bar Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section

Student Organizations

• Elder Law Society
• Health Care Law Association
• Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Association