When our parents fall ill or become disabled, our hearts fill with worry. We all want to make sure that they are cared for and that our family is not burdened with extra stress. Estate planning for sick and disabled parents is not just about dividing up assets—it’s about setting things in order so that your loved ones are protected and your family’s future is secure. 

If you’re looking for support during this challenging time, reach out to us for a friendly chat about your options.

Key Estate Planning Documents

Estate planning might sound confusing at first, but breaking it down into a few basic documents can help clear things up. Here are the main tools we use:

Wills

A will is a simple document that lets you decide how your property should be handled after you are no longer able to care for yourself. For families with minor children, a will also allows you to choose guardians who will take care of them. It also spells out how other assets, like a home or savings, will be distributed.

Trusts

Trusts can be a useful option for families dealing with incapacities. They can help avoid the often long and complicated probate process and can be set up to take care of your loved ones if they become unable to manage their own finances. If a parent is disabled or if there is a need for extra protection for a beneficiary, a trust might be the best choice. It can keep assets safe and ensure that funds are available for medical care and other needs without the delays that sometimes come with probate.

Powers of Attorney (Financial & Healthcare)

These documents are all about who you trust to make decisions when you can’t. A Financial Power of Attorney lets a person handle your finances, while a Healthcare Power of Attorney gives someone the responsibility of making medical decisions for you. Choosing someone who truly understands your wishes is essential here, as these decisions can have a big impact on your day-to-day life.

Advance Health Care Directives

Advance Health Care Directives let you record your preferences for medical treatments in case you can’t speak for yourself. This includes decisions about life support, pain management, and other important care decisions. It makes it clear what you would want, easing the burden on your family during a tough time.

Special Considerations for Sick or Disabled Parents

When parents are sick or disabled, there are a few extra issues to keep in mind. We need to make sure that every step of the process is handled with care and attention.

Capacity and Competency

One important aspect is the mental ability to make decisions—often called testamentary capacity. If a parent’s capacity is diminished, it can complicate how a will is made or updated. We need to be sure that the person is fully aware of what they’re signing, so the process doesn’t lead to any disputes later on.

Medi-Cal Planning

Medi-Cal can be a valuable resource, but it comes with its own set of rules when it comes to planning an estate. Sometimes, assets can affect eligibility for benefits. It’s a delicate situation that requires careful planning, which is why professional advice is often needed. We advise that anyone facing this situation talk to someone who can help make the right choices, keeping benefits and asset protection in balance.

Special Needs Trusts

For parents or children with disabilities, a special needs trust can be set up to provide ongoing care without risking eligibility for government benefits. This kind of trust helps keep funds separate so that any benefits are not affected, ensuring that the needs of your loved one are met without extra worry about losing important support.

Guardianship and Conservatorship

In cases where a parent is unable to make decisions, obtaining guardianship or conservatorship might be necessary. This legal process appoints someone to take charge of the person’s personal and financial matters. These proceedings can be time-consuming and sometimes expensive, so it’s important to understand all the implications and seek guidance when needed.

How to Start the Estate Planning Process

Taking the first step in estate planning can feel overwhelming, but starting early can make things a lot easier. Here are a few steps you can take:

Open Communication

Talk openly with your family about your plans. Honest discussions help ensure that everyone is on the same page and can relieve some of the stress that comes with uncertainty. Share your wishes and listen to theirs, too. It might feel tough at first, but these conversations help avoid misunderstandings later.

Gather Important Documents

Before you meet with an attorney, collect all the important documents. This can include financial statements, insurance policies, any existing wills or trusts, and records of assets. Having everything in one place makes it easier to see what needs to be addressed.

Consult with a Trusted Attorney

Even if you have a clear idea of what you want, talking to an attorney can help you fine-tune your plan. At Price Law Firm, APC, we have a team that’s here to help with all the aspects of estate planning. Our team can explain how each document works and help you choose the right combination for your family’s situation. 

We take the time to listen and answer your questions, ensuring that the process feels more like a conversation than a legal procedure.

Working with Price Law Firm

At Price Law Firm, APC, we take pride in our friendly approach and our commitment to helping you set up a plan that makes sense for your family. Here’s what you can expect when you reach out to us:

  • Personal Attention: Every case is handled with care. From our Client Care Specialist to our Probate Team, everyone is dedicated to making sure you feel supported.
  • Clear Explanations: We work hard to explain things in everyday language. No confusing legal talk—just clear, direct advice.
  • Compassionate Support: We know these issues can be very personal. Our team is here to help you through each step, making the process as smooth as possible.
  • Local Service: We are based in Redlands, which means we are familiar with local laws and can assist not just in Redlands but across the Greater Los Angeles area. Our office is located at 454 Cajon Street, Redlands, and we are just a phone call away at (909) 328-7000.

Protect Your Family’s Future: Contact Price Law Firm Today

Taking the steps to plan for the future of your sick or disabled parents can bring a sense of relief. By setting up a plan now, you help reduce uncertainty and make sure that all of your loved ones receive the care they need.

We invite you to get in touch with us for a friendly, no-pressure consultation. Let’s talk about your situation and explore the best ways to put your plan in place. You can reach us by phone at 909-328-7000, or check out our website for more information.

Taking care of your family is the most important thing. We look forward to helping you protect what matters most.