About Elder Law in Edmonton, Canada
Elder law in Edmonton, Canada mainly focuses on the legal issues and challenges that the ageing population faces. It encompasses a whole range of subjects including estate planning, retirement benefits, healthcare, power of attorney, guardianship, and abuse or fraud targeted towards seniors. Lawyers specialised in elder law provide legal counsel, defend the rights of the elderly, and work to safeguard their interests.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
There are many situations where you may require a lawyer specialised in elder law. The most common situations include making a will, establishing a power of attorney, estate planning, understanding and accessing retirement benefits, setting up a guardianship, handling elderly abuse cases, and navigating health care law including long-term care options. An elder law attorney can offer comprehensive services to address these legal challenges faced by seniors.
Local Laws Overview
In Edmonton, the key aspects of local laws relevant to elder law include the Alberta Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act, Seniors Property Tax Deferral Act, and Dependent Adults Act. The Alberta Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act provides a range of decision-making options for adults who need assistance, the Seniors Property Tax Deferral Act allows seniors to defer property taxes through a low-interest home equity loan, and the Dependent Adults Act focuses on guidance for the care and supervision of dependent adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an elder law attorney do?
An elder law attorney provides advice and legal representation to seniors on a wide range of issues including healthcare, long term care planning, guardianship, retirement, Social Security, and wills and estate planning.
When should I consult with an elder law attorney?
It's advisable to consult with an elder law attorney for estate planning, determining power of attorney, understanding long-term healthcare provisions, settling disputes over guardianship, and resolving matters of elder abuse or fraud.
Does Canada have laws to protect seniors from abuse?
Yes, Canada has strict laws to protect seniors from abuse. In Alberta, the Protection Against Family Violence Act enables those experiencing abuse from a family member to get a Protection Order or Emergency Protection Order.
What is the Alberta Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act?
The Alberta Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act is a law that gives options for decision-making assistance to adults who are incapable of making decisions independently.
Can I get legal aid for elder law issues in Edmonton?
Yes, Legal Aid Alberta offers services that cover elder law matters including guardianship, co-decision-making, trusteeship, and representation before the Alberta Review Board.
Additional Resources
Organizations like the Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council, Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council, and Alberta Health Services provide resources and support for elder law related matters. You can also make use of the resources provided by Legal Aid Alberta.
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance in elder law, consider consulting an attorney who specialises in this particular field. They can provide you with advice and legal representation to deal with any elder law issues and to help protect your rights and interests. Also, it's a good idea to compile all relevant documents and bring them to the consultation.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be
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guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change
frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal
professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation.
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