Marriage

Marriage in later life is a blessing. Among other benefits, it offers companionship, safety, improved health and consistent moral support that can be missing from the lives of so many elderly.

Nevertheless, it also raises questions that are often overlooked in the excitement of unexpected and new found beginnings:

• Will the separate assets of one spouse be spent on the other, especially when he or she becomes ill and needs nursing care?
  
  
  
• Will the well spouse be expected to provide that nursing care?
  
  
• Is it likely that the couple will change their wills to name each other as primary beneficiary, which disinherits their children?
  
  
• Will the new spouse replace adult children as financial and medical decision maker?
  
  
• Will one spouse's assets disqualify the other for Medicaid or VA benefits?
  
  
• Will the surviving spouse have the right to occupy the marital residence for life that is owned by the other?

If you or a parent is anticipating marriage, or are recently married, Susan can assist you in raising these important questions.  And, she'll help you find answers that meet the couple's needs while at the same time minimize or eliminate any future conflict between them and their families.

Divorce

Divorce is difficult at any age. But in later life it can leave an elderly person financially vulnerable at a time when resources are already in short supply, and there's little or no possibility of replenishment. Likewise, the emotional toll can devastate an older person whose physical reserves may be compromised by age and illness.

As an experienced family law, as well as elder law attorney, Susan can advise you and your family about the law and the unique issues involved. If divorce is initiated, she'll work to minimize the conflict and help you achieve the best possible result through negotiation rather than litigation. After divorce she can offer important advice on how to rebuild the safety net every elder needs for health and happiness in old age.