Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Shatin, Hong Kong Attorneys in related practice areas.
In Hong Kong, Elder Law primarily focuses on the legal, financial, and health concerns of seniors. This can cover a broad range of issues, from estate planning, wills, trusts, power of attorney, healthcare directives, to elder rights, elder abuse, negligence, and discrimination against the aged. In Shatin specifically, where a significant population of the elders resides, Elder Law can take on increased significance with specific regulations and protections in place for the older population.
Seniors or their family members may often need legal help when facing issues related to healthcare, mental capacity, long-term care needs, guardianship, retirement, Social Security, and insurance. Matters relating to financial planning such as estate planning, wills, trusts, and power of attorney also fall within the gamut of Elder Law. If an elder is a victim of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, legal intervention can help ensure the protection of their rights. A lawyer can provide advice, guidance, and representation in all these cases, effectively safeguarding the elder's interests.
While Hong Kong does not explicitly have 'elder law' legislation, its corpus of laws includes stipulations that protect and provide for seniors. The Discrimination Ordinance, for instance, prohibits discrimination on grounds of age in various fields, including employment, education, and provision of services. Additionally, The Guardianship Board has jurisdiction to make decisions regarding the affairs and well-being of mentally incapacitated persons. Seniors also enjoy specific protections under housing and healthcare laws and policies. Lastly, laws on wills, trusts, and estates guide the safe and effective transfer of assets after death.
A will is a legal document expressing the wishes of an individual concerning the disposition of their property after their death. It helps prevent disputes amongst heirs and ensures that the elder's wishes are respected.
A power of attorney is a document that allows an individual to appoint a person or organization to manage their affairs if they become unable to do so. It becomes especially important for seniors who may become incapacitated due to health issues.
The Hong Kong Law provides legal protections against elder abuse in different forms, including physical, emotional, and financial. Reported cases get addressed by a multidisciplinary team involving social workers, law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and legal practitioners.
Seniors have the right to appropriate healthcare services and the right to refuse treatment. Consent for medical procedures must be obtained freely without coercion, and they have a legal right to this information in a language they understand.
Yes, through public schemes such as the Old Age Allowance (OAA), Old Age Living Allowance (OALA) and the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme, statutory rights to a Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF), along with laws that protect against elder financial exploitation, Hong Kong law backs the financial security of seniors.
The Elderly Commission and The Social Welfare Department offer a wealth of resources for seniors, providing policies, services, and programs aimed at ensuring their well-being. Other resources include the Hong Kong Council of Social Services, The Guardianship Board, and NGOs such as The Elderly Services Association of Hong Kong. Legal Aid Department provides legal representation to financially disadvantaged persons.
If you require legal help related to Elder Law, begin by identifying your specific problem. This will determine what kind of lawyer or legal service you might need. For basic advice, consider reaching out to a local legal aid center or an elder law clinic. For a more complex matter such as estate planning or serious elder abuse allegations, it may be best to hire an experienced elder law attorney. It's crucial to discuss fees upfront and clarify any doubts before proceeding.
