VanderVeen Elder and Special Needs Law was created to provide both virtual and in person services to clients across Indiana and Michigan. Our goal is to meet the needs of clients in the manner they are most comfortable with.
We work with older adults and the family members caring for them to develop customized plans to meet the unique needs and goals of each situation. Using estate planning, tax planning and Medicaid eligibility techniques, our goal is to establish a plan to address current needs and future concerns.
We focus on planning for more than just the smooth transfer of assets at death. By creating a comprehensive plan that addresses incapacity planning, tax planning, and preventing potential disputes among heirs, we strive to ensure that your wishes are followed, your loved ones are taken care of and that you leave behind the legacy you envisioned.
Our goal is to create comprehensive strategy to ensure the long-term support of an individual with a disability or special needs, taking into account the unique needs and circumstances of the family. and involves creating a plan that will provide for their financial, medical, and legal needs throughout their lifetime.
Managing the estate of a loved one is not something many people have experience with. Lean on our years of practice and the tips and tricks we have learned along the way to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Jennifer is a kind and caring person in addition to being very intelligent and experienced. She has established trust funds for our son and is patiently guiding us through the complicated process of Medicaid for my wife. Jennifer is an amazing listener and explains legal issues in an easy to understand way...
Angela, Director of Client Services at the firm, is amazing at her job and is one of the nicest people you will ever meet anywhere.
I highly recommend VanderVeen Elder Law!
The entire process of trying to get some of my mother’s assets saved and get her on Medicaid is overwhelming. Jennifer is working hard to make it less stressful for me and I appreciate her immensely! Jennifer is easy to talk to and explains everything clearly. She responds to emails quickly, which has been very helpful. She was highly recommended by a friend and I would recommend her too!
Jennifer came highly recommended when we were looking for an attorney to draft our estate planning documents. She prepared our wills, powers of attorney and special needs trusts, as well as our disabled son’s Supported Decision Making Agreement with his input. She continues to assist us with related Social Security issues. Having Jennifer in our corner, with her superior knowledge of this complicated legal minefield, gives us great comfort.
Jennifer is an excellent elder attorney. She has assisted our family over the last 5 years with the Medicaid process, including the initial application and subsequent recertifications for continued assistance. Jennifer is prompt in responding to questions and following through on services needed. I would recommend her for any elder care and estate needs.
Did you ask AI to help with your estate plan, and end up with documents that look surprisingly complete? Maybe you answered a few questions, explained what you wanted, and within minutes had something labeled as a will, trust, or power of attorney sitting on your computer. At first glance, it may feel like one more important task you can finally check off your list. The bigger question is whether those documents actually fit your life. Estate planning is personal because families, finances, relationships, and future concerns are personal. For individuals and families in Indiana and Michigan, having an estate planning attorney review what AI created can help uncover questions that may never have come up while you were typing prompts into a computer. The Problem May Be What AI Never Asked You When you meet with an experienced Indiana and Michigan estate planning attorney, the conversation is often just as important as the documents that eventually result from it. An estate planning attorney may ask about previous marriages, children and grandchildren, real estate, retirement accounts, business interests, family relationships, long-term care concerns, and whether a loved one has a disability. The answers can affect how an estate plan should be structured. AI can only work with the information it receives. If you did not know that a particular detail mattered, you may never have included it in your prompt. The resulting document might look polished while completely missing an issue that could affect your family later. Your Will May Not Control Everything You Own Suppose you told AI exactly how you want your property to be divided, and it created a last will and testament reflecting those wishes. That still does not necessarily mean that every asset will be distributed according to that document. Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, jointly owned property, accounts with beneficiary designations, and assets associated with a trust may be handled differently. Estate planning requires looking at how your assets are owned and how they are intended to pass. Reviewing the documents without considering the assets connected to them can leave gaps between what you believe will happen and what may actually happen. The People in Your Plan Matter Too Estate planning documents do more than distribute property. They can give people significant responsibilities and authority. Who should serve as your personal representative? Who should manage your trust? Who would handle financial matters if you became incapacitated? Who should participate in healthcare decisions if you could no longer communicate your wishes? AI may be able to insert a name into the appropriate place in a document. It cannot know whether that person understands the responsibility, is willing to serve, or is the best choice in your family circumstances. Those decisions deserve more than an empty field on a form. Families With Additional Planning Needs Should Be Especially Careful Some situations require planning that goes well beyond a basic last will and testament. If you have a loved one with special needs, for example, leaving an inheritance directly to that individual may create concerns. These concerns may involve eligibility for certain means which deal with tested public benefits. Appropriate special needs planning may allow you to provide for that person while considering the programs and resources they rely upon. Long-term care concerns can also change the planning conversation. Elder law involves looking at issues that may affect someone during their lifetime, not simply determining where property goes after death. These are areas in which personalized legal guidance can be particularly important. A Document Can Look Right and Still Create Problems One of the risks of AI generated legal documents is that most people reviewing them are not attorneys. A document can use formal language, contain familiar legal terms, and appear professional without making it easy to recognize what is missing or inappropriate. There may also be requirements for properly signing, witnessing, or notarizing certain estate planning documents. Creating the document is only part of the process. This is why appearance should not be confused with effectiveness. Let AI Be the Beginning of the Conversation If you already created estate planning documents with AI, you do not necessarily need to throw them away. Bring them with you when you meet with an experienced estate planning attorney. They may help explain what you were trying to accomplish, which people you want involved, and what concerns prompted you to begin planning in the first place. From there, an estate and elder law planning attorney can help determine what works, what does not, and what additional questions need to be answered. Technology can make it easier to begin thinking about estate planning. Your family deserves more than a plan that simply looks finished. VanderVeen Elder Law works with individuals and families throughout Indiana and Michigan to address estate planning, elder law, and special needs planning concerns based on their individual circumstances. If you used AI to create your estate planning documents and are wondering whether they truly protect you and the people you love, contact VanderVeen Elder Law to schedule a consultation. Let us help you move from having documents to having a plan designed for your life.
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Have you ever worried that distance might keep you from being the advocate your loved one needs? When a parent, spouse, or other family member enters a long-term care facility, emotions often run high, especially if you live far away. The good news is that meaningful support is still possible, even from a distance. Whether your loved one resides in an assisted living facility, nursing home, or memory care setting here in Indiana, you still play an important role in their well-being. Staying connected takes intention, communication, and in many cases, the right legal planning. Communication Is Key While in-person visits may not happen as often, regular check-ins by phone, video call, or even traditional mail can provide comfort and reassurance. Ask your loved one how they are feeling and whether they have any needs or concerns. Just knowing you are there, even virtually, can have a lasting impact on their emotional health. Also, consider connecting with facility staff. Building relationships with nurses, social workers, and administrators helps you stay updated on your loved one’s care and the ability to catch changes early. How Estate Planning Supports Long-Distance Care When caring from a distance, having the proper legal documents in place is essential. A Durable Power of Attorney allows you to assist with financial matters, while a Health Care Power of Attorney ensures you can make medical decisions if needed. If your loved one is no longer able to act for themselves and has no prior documents, guardianship may be required through the courts. Additionally, HIPAA Authorization allows medical professionals to speak with you about your loved one’s condition. These tools can reduce stress, save time, and allow you to respond quickly if an emergency arises, no matter where you live. Small Ways to Stay Close Even when you cannot be there in person, there are still meaningful ways to connect: Send care packages with your loved one’s favorite snacks or books Organize video calls with multiple family members Request copies of the care plan so you can follow along and ask informed questions Celebrate milestones and holidays with cards or pre-recorded messages You Are Still a Vital Part of Their Team Being far away does not mean being left out. Your role matters emotionally, practically, and legally. With a clear plan and the right support, you can be present even from a distance. We know this blog may raise more questions than it answers. At VanderVeen Elder & Special Needs Law, we work with Indiana families every day to create estate plans that support loved ones near and far. If you are caring for someone in a facility or planning ahead for long-term care, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a conversation.
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Caring Without a Script How Family Caregivers Become Everyday Advocates Have you ever found yourself stepping into a role you did not train for, simply because someone you love needed you? That is what caregiving often looks like. Whether it is managing medications, attending doctor visits, or simply being there to listen, family caregivers provide support that is both essential and deeply personal. In Indiana, thousands of individuals quietly care for aging parents, spouses, and family members with disabilities often without recognition or a formal support system. This blog is a reminder that you are not alone and that there are practical, legal steps you can take to protect your loved one and yourself. The Unseen Role of Family Caregivers Many caregivers do not even identify themselves as such. You might think, “I’m just helping out,” but over time, those small tasks become critical pieces of someone else’s quality of life. The emotional and physical toll caregiving can take is real, and so are the responsibilities that come with it. Why Legal Planning Matters One of the most impactful ways to support your role as a caregiver is through proper estate planning. Documents such as a Durable Power of Attorney, Health Care Power of Attorney, or HIPAA Authorization can help you make decisions legally and efficiently when your loved one needs you most. If your loved one is no longer able to make decisions independently, guardianship may also be necessary. While this is a more involved process, it ensures that important medical and financial matters are handled by someone who truly understands and cares. Supporting the Caregiver Too Caregivers often place their own planning on the back burner. But your future matters just as much. Taking time to establish your own estate planning documents can offer peace of mind and help avoid crisis planning later. You Are Doing More Than You Know Being a caregiver means showing up every day, even when it is hard. It means advocating, comforting, organizing, and sometimes grieving all while balancing the rest of life. That is not just caregiving. That is advocacy, love, and quiet strength in action. We know this article may raise more questions than it answers. At VanderVeen Elder & Special Needs Law, we are proud to stand beside Indiana caregivers and help families create estate plans that reflect their values, needs, and caregiving journeys. If you are ready to explore your options or need guidance, contact us today. We are here to support you.
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Are you thinking about ways to protect your family and prepare for the future as the year winds down? As we move into the final months of the year, many Indiana families take time to reflect and set priorities. If you are caring for a loved one with a disability, an aging parent, or someone with limited capacity, now is a smart time to address guardianship and long term care planning before the new year begins. Guardianship is a legal process in Indiana that allows a trusted individual to make personal decisions on behalf of someone who cannot manage those decisions independently. This can include decisions about medical care, living arrangements, and day to day support. Whether you are seeking to establish guardianship for an adult child with special needs or an elderly parent facing cognitive decline, planning early can ensure continuity and prevent unnecessary court delays. Long term care planning is another key element to address before the year end. This type of planning helps ensure your loved one receives appropriate care while preserving assets and avoiding a crisis down the road. In many cases, a durable power of attorney, health care planning tools, and trust agreements may help avoid guardianship altogether. Working with an experienced legal team can help you understand what legal tools are available and which are right for your situation. One often overlooked benefit of year end planning is timing. Starting the process now means you have time to gather necessary documents, coordinate care plans, and take advantage of any financial or Medicaid related strategies before December 31. For example, making strategic asset transfers or filing key applications before the end of the year can impact eligibility and financial outcomes in the year ahead. We know this blog may raise more questions than it answers. Our team at VanderVeen Elder and Special Needs Law is here to help Indiana families navigate guardianship, long term care planning, and everything in between. Whether you are preparing for the future or responding to a loved one’s changing needs, contact us today. We are ready to support your goals and provide the guidance your family deserves.
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What does peace of mind look like for a parent raising a child with Down syndrome? For many Indiana families, it means having a clear legal and financial plan in place that supports their child now and into the future. October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and it is an important time to reflect on how special needs planning can make a lasting difference for families. Raising a child with Down syndrome often comes with additional caregiving responsibilities, medical costs, and long term support considerations. While these challenges are deeply personal, they also require practical and legal solutions. Special needs planning is about creating a foundation that helps protect your loved one’s eligibility for public benefits while ensuring that their unique needs are met through thoughtful planning. A common starting point for many families is establishing a supplemental needs trust. This type of trust agreement allows parents or loved ones to set aside funds for the benefit of a child with a disability without jeopardizing access to essential programs such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income. The trust can help cover costs that public benefits do not, including education, therapy, transportation, or recreational activities that enhance quality of life. Durable powers of attorney and health care planning tools also play an important role, particularly as a child with Down syndrome becomes an adult. In some cases, guardianship or supported decision making arrangements may be appropriate. Every family’s needs are different, which is why it is critical to work with an experienced legal team that understands the nuances of special needs planning here in Indiana. Planning is not about limiting opportunities. It is about creating them. By taking time to develop a strong legal plan, families can feel confident that their loved one will be protected and supported no matter what the future holds. We know this article may raise more questions than it answers. Our team at VanderVeen Elder and Special Needs Law is dedicated to helping Indiana families create personalized and effective special needs plans. If you have questions or are ready to get started, contact us today. We are here to support you and your family every step of the way.
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Have you ever put off making a last will and testament because you were not sure where to begin? You are not alone. Many people delay planning because it feels overwhelming or they believe it is something only needed later in life. But the truth is, having a clear plan in place is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family. August is National Make-A-Will Month, making it the perfect time to finally put your wishes in writing. If you live in Indiana, now is the ideal opportunity to explore how a last will and testament can give your loved ones the clarity and security they deserve. Why a Last Will and Testament Matters A last will and testament is a foundational estate planning tool. It outlines who should receive your property, who should serve as guardian for your minor children, and who should be in charge of carrying out your wishes. Without it, the State of Indiana decides these matters based on intestacy laws, which may not align with your personal values or family structure. Creating a will ensures your voice is heard even after you are gone. It reduces uncertainty and helps your family avoid unnecessary conflict or delays in managing your estate. Common Misconceptions About Wills One common myth is that only wealthy individuals need a will. In reality, anyone who owns property, has children, or cares about how their affairs will be handled should have a last will and testament. It does not matter whether you own a home, a business, or a few treasured heirlooms, your will ensures they are passed on according to your wishes. Another misunderstanding is that a will avoids probate. In Indiana, your estate may still go through probate, even if you have a will, but having one in place can streamline the process and reduce stress for your family. Planning for More Than Assets A last will and testament allows you to name a guardian for minor children or dependents. This is especially critical for Indiana families who want to ensure their children are raised by someone they know and trust. While your will addresses many key issues, it is also important to have a complete estate plan. This may include a trust agreement, durable powers of attorney, and health care planning tools to cover situations that arise during your lifetime or help avoid probate entirely. Now Is the Time to Start Putting off your planning can leave your loved ones with uncertainty and stress during an already difficult time. National Make-A-Will Month is a timely reminder that estate planning does not need to be complicated. By taking the first step this August, you are taking control of your legacy and ensuring your wishes are known. We know this blog may raise more questions than it answers. At VanderVeen Elder Law, we are here to guide you through every step of the estate planning process. Whether you are creating your first last will and testament or updating an existing plan, we are committed to helping Indiana families build lasting peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you move forward.
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Do you ever wonder what will happen to your child with a disability if something unexpected happens to you? For many Indiana families, this is one of the most emotional and pressing concerns. Estate planning is more than deciding who gets what, it is a way to build long-term security and peace of mind for your entire family, especially when caring for a loved one with unique needs. Whether you are just starting to plan or reviewing an existing estate plan, it is important to consider how the right tools can help support your child both now and in the future. With the proper guidance, you can create a plan that preserves eligibility for government benefits and gives you confidence that your child’s future is protected. Planning for Lifelong Care When you have a child with a disability, your estate planning must go beyond the basics. A last will and testament may outline your wishes, but it is not enough to address long-term care or benefit eligibility. A trust agreement, especially a supplemental needs trust or third-party special needs trust, can provide essential support without putting your child’s access to benefits like Medicaid or SSI at risk. These trusts allow families to set aside funds for future use while clearly defining how and when those funds can be used. It also ensures that a trusted individual or institution is in place to manage the assets for your child’s benefit. Guardianship and Health Care Planning Tools Naming a guardian in your estate plan is a critical decision for parents of children with disabilities. In Indiana, you can designate a guardian for your child’s person and property through your last will and testament. This helps ensure that someone you trust will step in if you are no longer able to provide care. You should also have durable powers of attorney and health care planning tools for yourself in place to ensure a smooth transition of care should something happen to you. Protecting Public Benefits and Avoiding Pitfalls One of the most common mistakes families make is unintentionally disqualifying a child from public assistance by naming them as a direct beneficiary. Even a small inheritance can jeopardize important services. That is why working with an estate planning attorney who understands both Indiana law and federal benefit programs is essential. Your plan must be tailored to your child’s current and future needs, including educational, medical, and housing considerations. This thoughtful approach helps preserve stability while maintaining flexibility. Starting the Conversation Early Talking about estate planning can feel overwhelming, but starting early gives you more time to make informed decisions. It also allows for regular reviews and updates as your child’s needs evolve. Whether your child is still in school or transitioning into adulthood, having a plan in place can offer invaluable peace of mind for everyone involved. We know this blog may raise more questions than it answers. At VanderVeen Elder Law, we are committed to helping Indiana families create estate plans that provide real solutions for children with disabilities. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and let us help you build a secure future for your loved ones.
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Have you ever worried about how to help an aging parent when you live in another state? Many families in Indiana are navigating long-distance caregiving for loved ones who need support. Whether you are hours away or across the country, it is possible to stay involved and make sure your parent feels cared for and protected. Long-distance caregiving can feel overwhelming at first. The good news is there are steps you can take to create a plan that gives everyone more peace of mind. Here are a few important considerations to keep in mind as you get started. First, talk openly with your parent about their wishes and any concerns they have about their care. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures you are all working toward the same goals. Discuss what daily help they need, and who is available locally to assist with transportation, errands, or medical appointments. Next, review legal planning tools like a durable power of attorney and health care planning tools. These documents are essential for long-distance caregiving because they allow a trusted person to make decisions if your parent cannot. If you are named as the agent, be sure you have copies of these documents and understand how they work in Indiana. It is also helpful to create an organized system for important information. This can include a list of doctors, medications, insurance policies, and contacts for local service providers. Having everything in one place makes it easier to respond quickly if something changes. Technology can be a valuable part of long-distance caregiving. Video calls, medication reminders, and online care portals allow you to stay connected and involved even when you cannot be there in person. Many Indiana families find that combining in-person visits with digital support helps everyone feel more secure. Finally, remember to build a support network for yourself. Caregiving is rewarding, but it can also be stressful. Talking with professionals or joining a caregiver support group can help you feel less alone and give you practical ideas for managing responsibilities. We know this article raises more questions than it answers. Our firm offers a number of legal services designed to help you and your family navigate estate planning and caregiving with confidence. We understand that not everyone can come into our office. Unlike other firms, we are happy to make arrangements to meet your needs. Let us know when you call us at (574) 243–4100 to set an appointment or fill out our contact form at https://vanderveenelderlaw.com and we will coordinate a meeting based on your individual situation.
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Have you ever wondered what happens to your estate plan when you spend part of the year in another state? Many Indiana residents enjoy escaping the cold months by spending winters in Florida or other warmer climates. While the change of scenery is refreshing, it can also create some unique planning issues you may not have considered. Whether you call yourself a snowbird for a few months or half the year, having an estate plan that works in both states is essential. From updating your legal documents to understanding how residency can impact your taxes and your legacy, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are a few important considerations to keep in mind before you pack up for the season. One key step is to review your last will and testament and trust agreements to be sure they are valid where you spend time. Different states have different rules about witnessing requirements and how documents are recognized. For example, some states may require additional steps to validate a trust agreement if you become a resident there. Another consideration is durable powers of attorney and health care planning tools. If you have appointed someone to make medical or financial decisions for you, you will want to confirm those documents are enforceable in the state where you spend part of the year. This helps avoid confusion or delays in the event of an emergency. You may also want to think about how owning property in more than one state could impact probate. Real estate held in another state often requires an additional probate process called ancillary probate. Proper titling of your property or using a revocable trust can help simplify administration for your loved ones. Finally, review your tax and residency status with your professional advisors. Where you spend the majority of your time can affect income tax obligations, estate tax considerations, and eligibility for certain benefits. Clear records and consistent planning can help avoid unintended consequences. We know this article raises more questions than it answers. Our firm offers a number of legal services designed to help you and your family navigate estate planning with confidence. We understand that not everyone can come into our office. Unlike other firms, we are happy to make arrangements to meet your needs. Let us know when you call us at (574) 243–4100 to set an appointment or fill out our contact form at https://vanderveenelderlaw.com and we will coordinate a meeting based on your individual situation. Have you ever wondered what happens to your estate plan when you spend part of the year in another state? Many Indiana residents enjoy escaping the cold months by spending winters in Florida or other warmer climates. While the change of scenery is refreshing, it can also create some unique planning issues you may not have considered. Whether you call yourself a snowbird for a few months or half the year, having an estate plan that works in both states is essential. From updating your legal documents to understanding how residency can impact your taxes and your legacy, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are a few important considerations to keep in mind before you pack up for the season. One key step is to review your last will and testament and trust agreements to be sure they are valid where you spend time. Different states have different rules about witnessing requirements and how documents are recognized. For example, some states may require additional steps to validate a trust agreement if you become a resident there. Another consideration is durable powers of attorney and health care planning tools. If you have appointed someone to make medical or financial decisions for you, you will want to confirm those documents are enforceable in the state where you spend part of the year. This helps avoid confusion or delays in the event of an emergency. You may also want to think about how owning property in more than one state could impact probate. Real estate held in another state often requires an additional probate process called ancillary probate. Proper titling of your property or using a revocable trust can help simplify administration for your loved ones. Finally, review your tax and residency status with your professional advisors. Where you spend the majority of your time can affect income tax obligations, estate tax considerations, and eligibility for certain benefits. Clear records and consistent planning can help avoid unintended consequences. We know this article raises more questions than it answers. Our firm offers a number of legal services designed to help you and your family navigate estate planning with confidence. We understand that not everyone can come into our office. Unlike other firms, we are happy to make arrangements to meet your needs. Let us know when you call us at (574) 243–4100 to set an appointment or fill out our contact form at https://vanderveenelderlaw.com and we will coordinate a meeting based on your individual situation.
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