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Thika, Kenya Attorneys in related practice areas.
Elder Law in Thika, Kenya is a legal field that primarily focuses on addressing the varying legal needs of the aging population. This includes issues relating to aging, illness, incapacity, retirement, estate planning, long-term care, protection from scammers, and even end-of-life considerations. While Elder Law as a dedicated practice may not be as prevalent in Kenya, there is an increasing recognition of the need to address these issues and afford protections to elder citizens, in line with the 2007 Kenyan Government's National Policy on Older Persons and Ageing.
There are several situations in which you may require the services of a lawyer experienced in the field of Elder Law. This could include navigating the complexities of retirement planning, understanding your legal rights regarding healthcare and housing, estate planning and testamentary capacity, protection against elder abuse, and even guardianship issues. Furthermore, as elder law can intersect with various aspects of law, having a lawyer ensures that the rights and interests of the elder individual are respected and protected.
In Thika and more broadly Kenya, there are several local laws that have particular relevance to Elder Law. The Constitution of Kenya, 2010, emphasizes the right of every individual to accessible and adequate housing and healthcare, as well as dignity and respect – all crucial for older adults. The National Social Protection Policy, 2011, provides for the social and financial security of Kenyans, including its older citizens. There is also the National Policy on Older Persons and Ageing, 2007, which outlines strategies to improve the status of older individuals and provides for protection against abuse and deprivation.
Estate planning is a process of arranging and anticipating the management and disposal of a person’s estate either during their life or post-death. This can involve wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, powers of appointment, and power of attorney, among others.
Elder abuse refers to a single, or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person. This can be physical, sexual, psychological, or involve financial exploitation.
Legal guardianship is a legal status given to an individual (the guardian) appointed by court to take care of an individual who is unable to take care of himself or herself (the ward). For older adults, this could be due to incapacities brought about by illnesses or age itself.
Age discrimination is prohibited by the Constitution of Kenya. If you experience this form of discrimination, you may engage a lawyer to guide you on further steps which may include filing a case with the appropriate legal bodies.
Lawyers experienced in Elder Law can handle these kinds of cases. Although it may not be a common specialization in Kenya, more and more lawyers are recognizing the need and are becoming adept at handling issues affecting older adults.
The Kenyan Ministry of Labor and Social Protection runs beneficial programs for older individuals, including the Older Persons Cash Transfer Program. The Kenyan Law Reports website is also a helpful resource for understanding local laws. Legal advice can also be sought from local law firms or legal aid services.
If you need legal assistance in the field of Elder Law, the following steps can be helpful: Firstly, identify your specific legal needs. Then search for a lawyer experienced in Elder Law – this could be via referrals, legal directories, or local law firms. Once you've located a potential lawyer, contact them to discuss your situation and they will guide you on the next steps, such as gathering documentation and subsequent legal procedures.
