Entries by Hewitt Law PLLC

The Role of Life Settlements in Elder Law Planning

The letter arrives every month like clockwork: the premium notice for a life insurance policy taken out decades ago. For years, it represented a promise—a safety net for loved ones. But now, with the rising costs of healthcare and the potential need for long-term care, that monthly payment feels less like a security blanket and […]

The Role of Charitable Remainder Trusts in Estate and Medicaid Planning

For many West Virginians, building a lifetime of assets comes with a dual desire: to secure a comfortable future for themselves and their families, and to give back to the communities and causes that matter most. These goals can sometimes feel at odds, especially when faced with the escalating costs of long-term care and the […]

Medicaid Planning for Seniors with Significant Debt: Strategies in West Virginia

The prospect of needing long-term care is a source of anxiety for many West Virginia families. The staggering cost of nursing homes or in-home assistance can deplete a lifetime of savings in a distressingly short period. For seniors also carrying significant debt—whether from credit cards, medical bills, or a mortgage—the situation feels even more precarious. […]

The Role of Mediation in Elder Law Disputes: Preserving Family Relationships

Elder law addresses the complex needs of a growing senior population, involving intricate decisions about long-term care, financial planning, and healthcare directives. Disputes in this field are particularly weighty as they affect deeply personal family matters and emotional connections. Unlike impersonal legal conflicts, elder law disagreements over care, inheritance, or exploitation can severely damage family […]

Medicaid Planning for Senior Entrepreneurs: Protecting Business Assets and Legacy

Senior entrepreneurs face financial risks from long-term care costs that standard Medicaid planning often overlooks due to the complexities of business ownership. Proactive Medicaid planning is vital for senior business owners to protect both personal and business assets. Early strategic measures offer more options for qualifying for Medicaid while preserving the business and securing their […]

Probate with Estranged Family Members: Legal and Emotional Considerations

The loss of a loved one inevitably brings a period of sorrow and readjustment. When this challenging time is compounded by the legal process of probate, the weight can feel immense. For families marked by estrangement, this weight becomes even heavier. Navigating probate with estranged family members introduces a unique and often painful layer of […]

What is the Medicaid Trap and How Can You Avoid It?

Planning for long-term care in West Virginia can be overwhelming, especially regarding Medicaid eligibility. The “Medicaid Trap” refers to the financial and legal challenges people face when trying to qualify for Medicaid to cover long-term care costs, often resulting in financial strain or disqualification from benefits. Without proper planning, Medicaid’s strict income and asset limits […]

Beyond the Will: Creative Estate Planning Tools for Complex Family Dynamics

Estate planning often goes beyond just drafting a will, encompassing strategies to distribute assets and protect your family’s financial future. For families with complex situations, a simple will may not suffice to address unique concerns and navigate intricate family dynamics. A comprehensive estate plan can provide the necessary flexibility and control to ensure your wishes […]