Sigler & Nelson LLC – Estate, Probate, and Elder Law Attorneys – Lakewood, CO
Elder Law, Guardianships & Conservatorships
Legal guidance focused on protecting seniors and assisting families with important personal and financial decisions.
Legal Services for Seniors and Their Families
Elder Law is not one specific area of practice. Instead, it focuses on the legal issues confronted by senior clients and their families and advisors.
These issues may include estate planning, estate litigation, guardianships and conservatorships, and protection against fraud or financial exploitation.
Many seniors face questions about how to cope financially, emotionally, and physically with the future. Our goal is to ensure that each client has the opportunity to choose which strategies are most appropriate for them.
Whether you are preparing for retirement or assisting an aging parent, we work with you to develop a legal plan that reflects your circumstances.
What is Elder Law?
Elder Law brings together legal strategies designed to protect assets, maintain independence, and address the realities that come with aging.
Our work in this area commonly involves:
- Powers of attorney
- Fiduciary representation
- Guardianships and conservatorships
- Addressing financial exploitation or undue influence
We focus on helping clients understand the alternatives available and make informed decisions about their future.
Understanding the Financial and Legal Connection
Questions involving incapacity, asset protection, and future care often require careful legal preparation. A review of your current circumstances can identify areas where planning or preventative action may help reduce unnecessary expense and uncertainty.
We work closely with clients and their advisors to ensure that the client’s legal documents are aligned with their overall planning goals.
Guardianships and Conservatorships
There are times when a loved one becomes unable to make independent personal or financial decisions. This situation can be made more complex when appropriate powers of attorney have not been created.
In these instances, the court may be asked to appoint a guardian to assist with medical decisions or a conservator to manage financial affairs.
We represent individuals involved in guardianship and conservatorship proceedings and work to find solutions in accordance with the client’s goals.
There are times when disagreements arise regarding who should serve or whether an appointment of a guardian or conservator is necessary. In contested matters, we advocate for our client’s interest while attempting to minimize conflict.
Protection Against Financial Exploitation
Elder Law also involves protecting seniors from fraud, undue influence, and financial exploitation.
We assist clients in matters involving
- Questions of capacity
- Allegations of undue influence
- Fiduciary disputes
- Concerns regarding financial abuse or exploitation
Our role is to provide clear guidance and practical solutions focused on safeguarding both assets and independence.
Important Decisions Deserve Experienced Guidance
Decisions involving aging, incapacity, and asset protection are significant for both individuals and families. We work to ensure that you understand your options and have the information needed to make informed choices.