Elder law covers a group of legal specialties focused on the legal needs of older Americans. Needs, of course, vary; therefore, elder law decisions often involve participation by the client’s children, parents, financial advisors, government agencies, healthcare personnel, as well as an elder law attorney.

Not all estate planning involves the distribution of assets after death; creating a plan to protect a minor child’s personal and financial well being in the event of a parent’s death or mental incapacitation, or a plan to follow when an adult becomes incapacitated and unable to make important healthcare and financial decisions, comprise estate planning, too.

Estate planning helps ensure that your loved ones understand your wishes and that they are cared for following your death. Benjamin Franklin once said that by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail. That could not be more true when it comes to estate planning. Statistics show that nearly 70 percent of Americans don’t create an estate plan. Without a plan, your assets can be awarded to people whom you did not choose, or go to the Internal Revenue Service.

When creating an estate plan, consider adding a Medical Directive. Some opt for a living will while others prefer to have a durable health care power of attorney. Before creating this document, however, you need to learn the laws of your state to ensure the document meets the legal requirements. With the help of the document selected, your healthcare provider will be able to follow your wishes rather than doing what he or she feels is best.