The Fundamentals of Elder Law: Cases and Materials

The second edition of this casebook provides a lively and contemporary course in elder law, emphasizing illustrative factual cases and statutes, and supported by materials from elder law practitioners and statistical data. It addresses estate planning, asset protection, philanthropy, and tax planning, as well as personal health care decision-making and federal benefits. It also discusses ageism, elder abuse, and discrimination in housing and employment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1035 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2022
Publisher: West Academic Publishing

The second edition of this casebook remains a vital resource for teaching a dynamic and up-to-date course in elder law. It emphasizes illustrative factual cases and statutes, supported by materials from elder law practitioners and statistical data. What sets this edition apart is its strong emphasis on state and federal court decisions, rather than merely reciting statutory provisions. Elder law is gaining increasing historical and social significance, with projections indicating that by 2030, one-fifth of all Americans will be 65 or older. Each day, 10,000 individuals turn 65, presenting a range of legal issues related to an aging population. These issues include estate planning objectives in the context of potential incapacity, integrating nonprobate and probate transfers, asset protection planning, philanthropy and dynasty options, and beneficial tax planning. Statutory changes have been introduced to provide guidance for personal health care decision-making and designations of guardians and surrogates to exercise authority when needed. Clients and institutions require legal assistance to navigate federal benefits such as Medicare, Social Security, Veterans Benefits, and the interaction of state-federal Medicaid opportunities. Furthermore, statistics indicate that nearly two-thirds of individuals over age 65 will require some form of long-term care. The cost of this care can vary significantly, ranging from as little as $1,000 a month for simple home assistance to at least $15,000 to $20,000 a month for continuous care provided by healthcare professionals. This edition continues to address ageism, the pandemic of elder abuse in all its forms, and discrimination in housing and employment, ensuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address these pressing issues in the field of elder law.

Dimension: 254 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781636597775
Edition number: 2 Revised edition