Guardianship and Conservatorship are important topics for families with adults who have autism. It is a legal process which gives a responsible person the authority to make decisions for an adult who is unable to do so alone. In Washington, guardianship aims to...
Seattle Disability & Elder Law Blog
How to talk to your parents about estate planning
Estate planning remains an important yet frequently overlooked conversation within many families. It requires decisions about transferring an individual's estate after their death, including distributing assets and caring for dependents. Although the topic might feel...
Can you work part-time while receiving SSDI?
Even with a disability that prohibits you from working full-time, you may want to earn extra income or remain active in your career. If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance, you may wonder whether you can work part-time while still receiving benefits. If...
How can I calculate future costs for my special needs child?
You know at some point you will not be around to provide care for your special needs child, which has probably already led you to consider taking out a life insurance policy that will pay out benefits to cover the care of your child. A first step is to determine how...
When a trustee has the right to sell trust property
Acting as a trustee involves understanding the legal basis for you to make certain decisions regarding a trust. This can include selling off property contained in the trust. Without established authority to sell off trust assets, you could end up in probate court if...
4 common reasons for an SSD denial
Social Security Disability benefits provide financial support to individuals unable to work due to a disability. The process of obtaining these benefits can be complex and challenging. Many applicants find themselves facing denials for various reasons. Understanding...
Tips on avoiding will contests
With estate planning, clearly outlining your wishes can prevent disputes. If there are questions, your loved ones may choose to contest your will, which will put strain on your family. While you cannot always avoid will contests, taking certain actions can greatly...
Impacts of labeling children as EBD
Children with emotional difficulties that impact their behavior at school sometimes receive a diagnosis of Emotionally and Behaviorally Disturbed. The U.S. Department of Education reported that in the 2018 to 2019 school year, 5.45% of disabled students had this type...
Why you should not delay your special needs planning
Special needs planning is essential for securing your loved one's future, but it is never too early to start the process. It is often in your best interest to consider special needs planning as early as possible. The sooner you begin planning, the more options will be...
Valuable qualities to look for in a legal guardian
Selecting a guardian for a loved one is a weighty task. Assessing candidates and determining which is most suitable can be a delicate job. The final verdict should account for all the characteristics that make a guardian not just a caregiver but a true advocate for...