Family Law Attorney Belleville, Illinois
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Elder Law FAQ

Answers you can trust from Belleville, IL elder law attorneys

Getting straight answers about elder law in Illinois can be confusing. There's so much information out there and it's often hard to tell what to believe. It's important that you talk to an elder law attorney who understands how the legal system works. That's why we created this page addressing some of the most frequently asked questions about elder law.

We know the answers because we've done the work at Courtney Clark Law, P.C. in Belleville, Illinois. That's also probably why we get so many referrals at our law firm from other attorneys and former clients. They know that we know how to get the job done right.

What is your question?

Even if you see your answer below, contact us to discuss your specific legal questions. That's because every circumstance is unique, just like your family. Schedule your free case evaluation today at our law firm.

What is elder law?

Elder law can refer to a wide range of legal issues involving older adults - from planning for medical care and end-of-life issues, to dealing with issues of abuse or financial exploitation of elder or disabled adults.

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What is a legal guardian?

A legal guardian is legally designated by someone to make decisions for a person if they can no longer make decisions for themselves. Choosing a legal guardian is a very important decision, especially in the case of elder guardianship. That's why we take our work so seriously on such cases.

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What is a living will?

A living will is a legal document that includes instructions for medical treatment in the event that the person who created the living will is seriously or terminally ill and can no longer communicate their wishes. For example, a living will might include language such as "keep me comfortable, but do no more" or "do whatever is necessary to extend my life." Creating a living will is an important step for many elderly people who are approaching the end of life.

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What are common types of elder abuse?

Elder abuse can take many forms. Some of the most common types of elder abuse include:

  • Physical abuse
  • Verbal abuse
  • Psychological abuse
  • Financial exploitation
  • Neglect

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What are warning signs of elder abuse?

There are many ways you can tell that something might be wrong with an older family member. Warning signs of elder abuse vary depending on the type of abuse but common warning signs include:

  • Sudden change in mood
  • Unexplained injuries
  • Unexplained illnesses
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained bills
  • Sudden financial problems

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Who investigates elder abuse claims in Illinois?

Several different local, state and federal agencies investigate elder abuse claims in Illinois depending on the nature of the complaint. The Illinois Department of Aging for Elder Abuse handles many elder abuse claims. Sometimes, local police are involved, especially if the case involves physical abuse or financial exploitation.

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Why should I hire an elder abuse attorney?

Elder abuse claims can be complicated. While the authorities investigating your claim work hard, they're not always focused on what's best for your loved one. Investigators are simply focused on finding out what happened. An elder abuse lawyer focuses on your family's personal needs. That's what we do, and that's why we have such a well-earned reputation throughout southern Illinois. We're focused on finding out what happened, as well as preserving your family's future.

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