Divorce And Nursing Homes
Unhappy Marriage?
I sincerely hope your marriage is going well. If it is not, then I urge you to talk with your spouse, see a therapist, and explore all options short of ending your marriage. At the same time, based on handling hundreds of family law cases since 1988, I recommend you see an attorney now. If you think it may end, then it just might. You should know what to do immediately if your spouse acts first. You should also know the pros and cons of you acting first. If there is aggressiveness, then you should know what to do to protect yourself and your children. Prompt measures can promote safety, contain the bills, and preserve evidence you may need to earn a fair settlement. I can help you identify your risks and plan a strategy in advance if the worst happens. If you have doubts, then call us to set up an initial consultation of up to one hour.
Dissolution or Divorce?
Most marriages end by dissolution or divorce. A dissolution requires both parties to agree, in writing, on dividing their money and debts and on all matters regarding their children. The process ends with a simple 5 minute hearing a few weeks after filing this agreement with the court. A divorce, though, starts with one party filing a complaint that states unkind things about the other spouse. Restraining orders, temporary alimony or child support, discovery questions, court dates, and frequent contact with a lawyer make divorces much more expensive, time consuming, and unpleasant than a dissolution. If a marriage must end, then a dissolution is much more palatable than a divorce.
Three Concerns With Nursing Homes.
How to pay the bills, how to manage affairs, and how to keep money in the family instead of paying it all to the nursing home are the three main issues we address in these cases. You may not necessarily have to spend all a person owns before Medicaid pays the bills. You may be able to make some gifts now to family members and still have Medicaid pay for the nursing home. You may be able to avoid a Guardianship and have the family make key decisions by putting in place a few instruments now. Even if the person is already in the nursing home, it is never too late to plan for these matters. Call us today if you or a loved one faces a nursing home stay. We can help get the affairs in order. We can travel to a nearby nursing home or hospital if you can’t come to our office.
Planning For a Nursing Home Stay.
A person must have dementia, or trouble transferring, toileting, bathing, dressing, or eating to justify an admission. If someone you love has any of these problems, then you should consult with their doctor. An attorney should also review their wills, powers of attorney, living will, and financial status immediately.
Got Questions?
There’s no charge for the first few minutes on the phone. I’m available at (937) 667-8805 from 8:30 to 5:00, Monday through Friday. There’s no reason to delay. Call us today!