How a special needs child and divorce implicates estate planning

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An article written by a financial planner specializing in divorce stresses these two key points regarding dissolutions involving special needs children:

Such divorces “are significantly more complex to negotiate” than most others; and
Many divorce attorneys understandably do not command a full understanding of how to best help a parent obtain results that will optimally benefit their special needs child long-term

And that is why Lili A. Vasileff states that it is essential for any divorcing party in Massachusetts or elsewhere with a special needs child “that your family law attorney work with a special needs attorney … to eliminate risk of forfeiting the child’s entitlements.”

That preceding word “entitlements” is critically important in the special needs context. Experienced estate planning attorneys routinely explain to clients so-called “means tested” government programs such as federal Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid. Those offerings are lifelines for families focused upon a loved one’s special needs.

There are complex qualifying rules that challenge individuals and families seeking those government benefits. Proven estate administration lawyers know them intimately and routinely help planners secure and retain them. Special needs trusts and additional planning tools/strategies can work together to obtain best-case results for applicants.

We duly note on our website at The Law Offices of Kimberly Butler Rainen in Andover that planning for a disabled child “can be one of the most integral efforts a parent can undertake.”

Our firm always stands ready to work with clients and together with other professionals to help special needs children secure meaningful care and an uncompromised quality of life.

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