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What Is Special About Elder Law Attorneys?

By Charles F. Robinson

These are "Core Value" statements to reflect the underlying values of respected Elder Law Attorneys

1. Elder Law Attorneys establish and maintain innovative and fulfilling practices.

• Elder Law Attorneys are more in-tune with changes in the environment that affects their clients and their practices.
• The establishment of a fulfilling practice is a driving force for most Elder Law Attorneys as efficient, profitable, quality practices enable members to create a balance between personal and professional demands.

2. Elder Law Attorneys demonstrate care, concern, and consideration for their clients.

• Personal contact with clients is very important to the attorney who chooses to practice elder law.
• There is a genuine interest in and respect for the client and the client's situation that encompasses legal and non-legal issues.

3. Elder Law Attorneys are committed unselfishly to sharing information and assisting each other to achieve the highest standards of excellence for their practices and their clients.

4. Elder Law Attorneys advocate and implement systemic solutions to consumer needs on a non-partisan basis.

• Advocating for high quality legal services for elder persons and people with disabilities transcends the boundaries of political parties.
• Elder Law Attorneys have valuable practical experience and knowledge which places them in a unique position to be a voice for their clients.

5. Collectively, Elder Law Attorneys make a difference.

• As a group, we are stronger both in the public policy arena as well as in providing the best services to our clients.
• Care, concern and consideration transcend every aspect of an Elder Law Attorney's personal and professional relationships and environments.

6. Elder Law Attorneys focus on the positive aspects of aging.

• Aging should be seen as the process of accumulating wisdom.
• Personal growth should be an integral part of the aging experience.
• Disability or financial limitations should not eliminate all positive aspects of aging.

7. All persons are affected by the process and reality of aging in different ways throughout their life span.

• Advocacy for the needs of aging clients requires an inclusive, holistic view of social rights and responsibilities.
• It is special to be able to serve as an Elder Law Attorney .

(A previous version of this article appeared in the Elder Law Advocate, Florida Bar Elder Law Section Newsletter.)