May is National Elder Law Month

Posted on May 7, 2025 by

The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) has declared May to be National Elder Law Month. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., NAELA was founded in 1987 in response to the growing needs of older adults, which is the fastest-growing segment of the American population.  NAELA aims to educate and equip attorneys for the complexity of practicing elder and special needs law.  The organization currently has over 4,000 members nationwide.

Our own Reg Wydeven is the current President of the Wisconsin Chapter of NAELA.  In addition, McCarty Law’s other elder law attorneys, Jon Fischer, Ali Ratajczak, Sara Micheletti and Katrina Hochholzer, are also members of NAELA.

Unlike traditional attorneys, elder law attorneys focus on representing their clients in a holistic manner by helping with the issues that affect a particular segment of the population rather than a particular area of law.

When clients visit an elder law attorney, they generally present issues beyond the need for a will or a power of attorney.  Elder law attorneys are familiar with the unique and multifaceted aspects of this complex area of law, as well as a network of services and providers who can effectively assist clients.

NAELA devotes much of its resources to education of its members and the public. Elder law attorneys must constantly monitor the ever-changing statutes and regulations to which older adults are beholden for their daily existence.

In recognition of National Elder Law Month, McCarty Law encourages everyone to make sure their estate plans are up to date, that their loved ones know their estate plan exists and where they can find it.  Finally, and most importantly, we recommend discussing the contents of your plan with your loved ones, especially your wishes regarding end-of-life decisions and care.

One estate planning tool many people don’t realize exists is an Authorization for Final Disposition.  This document allows someone to designate a ‘representative’ that has the authority to carry out their funeral wishes.  In addition, the form allows someone to spell out what their wishes are.

Here is a link to the form if you would like to complete it:  www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/forms/advdirectives/f00086.pdf

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McCarty Law LLP

Since 1949, McCarty Law of Appleton, Wisconsin, has been providing trusted legal counsel to individuals as well as small and large businesses, closely held companies and international organizations. Our Fox Cities law firm is made up of more than 15 experienced attorneys who offer exceptional customer service and legal help on a variety of business and personal matters … we practice at the highest ethical standard to help you reach your individual and professional goals.