Elder Law

Many elder law attorneys represent clients who may be eligible for valuable veterans benefits but are unfamiliar with the VA claims process. This program provides a practical introduction to veterans benefits, service-connected disability claims, and the steps required to obtain VA accreditation, enabling attorneys to effectively assist veterans and their families or expand their practice into veterans advocacy.

PRE-ORDER Whether practitioners are representing residents living in long-term care facilities and their families or the facilities themselves, both sides of the case will find reliable practice guidance in the 2027 edition of Long-Term Care Litigation.

This handbook provides thorough, practical guidance on advocating for the needs and interests of elderly clients.

This program presents the latest developments in Medicaid Compliant Annuity (MCA) planning. It covers best practices for structuring annuities to meet Medicaid eligibility requirements, recent regulatory and policy updates, common compliance pitfalls, and strategic planning considerations.

Designed for Illinois elder law attorneys, the Elder Law Short Course provides a focused update on key developments and practice strategies. Topics include Illinois case law and legislative updates, capacity assessment, guardianships, Medicaid eligibility and planning pitfalls, special and supplemental needs trusts, and IRA beneficiary planning for disabled beneficiaries. The program also addresses emerging issues such as ethics and AI, medical aid in dying, and electronic signing, along with practical guidance on client intake, engagement, and effective practice management, all while networking with experienced faculty and peers.

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New for 2026, Day Two includes an optional Track C devoted entirely to AI in elder law practice, with demonstrations, practical “plain-English” guidance, and interactive workshops designed for immediate use. Because this track is an additional-fee add-on and is not recorded, attendees who select it must attend in-person. Registration is limited.

This program explores the complex and often misunderstood issue of involuntary discharges from skilled nursing facilities. Designed for legal professionals, advocates, healthcare providers, and families, the session will break down residents’ rights, federal and state regulations, and the legal standards governing transfers and discharges.

The presentation will include a general overview of ethics, a discussion of the Rules of Professional Conduct as they relate to the practice areas of estate planning and elder law, the presentation and analyses of hypotheticals the lawyer may encounter in their estate planning and elder law practice and finally, tips to avoid an ARDC complaint.

Medicaid’s Spousal Refusal option remains a powerful—yet often misunderstood—tool for protecting the financial security of married couples when one spouse requires long-term care. This program provides a clear, practical overview of the current legal landscape, recent regulatory developments, and emerging trends affecting Spousal Refusal planning.

IRAs can pose a challenge to attorneys engaging in Medicaid planning, but a properly structured Medicaid Compliant Annuity can help.

Explore the complex intersection of elder abuse and diminished capacity, with a focus on evolving strategies for identification, intervention, and advocacy. This session will address new approaches to assessing capacity, legal tools available to protect vulnerable adults, and the implications of updated ABA Rule 1.14 on representing clients with diminished capacity. Gain insight into practical case management, ethical duties, and effective collaboration with professionals in other disciplines.
Originally presented as part of Elder Law Short Course 2025.

When an interested party (caregiver, spouse, child, friend, or agent under a Power of Attorney) is involved, attorneys and geriatric care managers must clearly identify and protect the true client. This session covers practical and ethical strategies to manage caregiver influence, maintain boundaries, and address conflicts. Attendees will gain tools to recognize red flags and ensure advocacy remains focused on the client’s rights and wishes.
Originally presented as part of Elder Law Short Course 2025.

Disputes in guardianship cases are becoming more frequent and more complex. This session will cover the most common challenges that arise—such as objections to appointments, claims of undue influence, disagreements among family members, and allegations of incapacity. Learn how to navigate contested hearings, handle difficult parties, and manage the procedural and evidentiary issues that come with these high-stakes cases.
Originally presented as part of Elder Law Short Course 2025.