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Guardianship practice in Pennsylvania and particularly in Philadelphia is changing. Consider: Philadelphia Orphans’ Court’s appointment of a Guardianship Investigator; New PA Supreme Court Guardianship rules will soon be effective; A state-wide Guardianship Tracking System is being implemented; Philadelphia’s new Elder Justice and Civil Resource Center and Elder Access Committee chaired by Judge Woods-Skipper; The PA […]
Whether due to a catastrophic accident, a progressive degenerative disorder like dementia, or a condition from birth, the person in need of guardianship services is not in a position to seek them for themselves. Therefore, it falls upon a loved one or friend or care provider to obtain that level of service for them by […]
Whether an estate is large and complicated or of the most modest scale, everyone over 18 should have five basic estate planning documents: A Will Durable Financial Powers of Attorney Health Care Powers of Attorney An Advance Directive for Health Care Decision Making (Living Will) A HIPAA Medical Records Release. These documents are a gift […]
Seeking Guardianship. When an adult cannot adequately manage his or her financial, health, or safety needs, guardianship may be needed. A petition must be filed in Orphans Court, evidence must be presented at a hearing, and, if the judge grants the petition, then the appointed guardian, under supervision of the court, manages some or all […]
Diagnosis of a chronic illness or a health crisis presents a confusing maze of legal, health care, and financial questions which need to be addressed quickly. Long Term Care Planning addresses those issues in one place: our office. We can work with you and your family to create a plan, help you to get your […]
Most people entering a nursing home will eventually receive a Medicaid nursing home grant to pay for care. Many seniors rely on Medicaid to pay for in-home services necessary for aging at home. The Problem According to the Pennsylvania Health Care Organization, the average cost of a private room in a nursing home in 2017 […]
Probate. If the value of an estate is over $50,000 or the estate includes real estate, then an estate must be “opened” in order to distribute the property, unless all assets transfer by operation of law. Whether or not there is a will, the Register of Wills oversees the probate process. The will dictates who […]