Skilled Marietta Attorney Providing A Full Spectrum Of Elder Law Services
Last updated on May 18, 2026
Elderly people and their loved ones face many decisions and concerns regarding their care and quality of life as they age. While much of what happens is out of our control, we can plan ahead for any contingencies and unknown circumstances.
At MDSLaw Ohio, we focus on all aspects of elder law. Our experienced Marietta elder law attorney uses a compassionate approach to create personalized plans for our clients based on their unique needs. It is challenging to consider a future where you or a loved one can no longer care for themselves. We understand the sensitive nature of these decisions. We will work with you to navigate the financial, legal and emotional complexities of elder law and long-term care planning. Out of our office in Marietta, we assist clients and families throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley.
Considering Your Financial And Long-Term Care Goals
There is much more to elder law than establishing a will or a trust. For many people, there are crucial considerations regarding long-term care plans, power of attorney and incapacity planning. At MDSLaw Ohio, we compassionately help our clients put measures in place that protects their family and accounts for their wishes. We take the time to consider everything, from protecting benefit eligibility to asset protection and end-of-life care.
We can help you with a variety of legal issues our elderly clients and their families face, including:
- Power of attorney
- Incapacity planning
- Estate planning
- Conservatorships
- Long-term care planning
When people grow older, they may face a variety of illnesses and conditions that limit their ability to make important decisions or care for themselves. There are various options for care available depending on your situation. Nursing home care and other long-term care options can get expensive, and many clients can benefit from planning ahead if this type of care is necessary.
Our founding attorney, Matthew D. Scott, has experience as a licensed financial professional. He uses this knowledge to help clients prepare plans that protect their assets, including creating irrevocable trusts to protect Medicaid eligibility.
Why Elder Law Is Important
Elder law is unique, not because of the type of law involved, but because of the people it serves. Rather than focusing on a specific discipline, elder law centers on serving the unique needs of older adults, typically those aged 60 and above. These needs often span multiple legal areas, including estate planning, long-term care, guardianship and public benefits.
As people age, they often face challenges that are legal, financial, medical or familial in nature. For instance, ageism, which is defined as discrimination based on age, can influence how older adults are treated in society as well as in legal and health care systems.
According to the American Psychological Association, ageist assumptions can lead to diminished autonomy, reduced access to services and even poorer health outcomes. In legal matters, this can manifest as pressure from others to make decisions that are not truly in the elder’s best interest. Even well-meaning family members can unintentionally overstep boundaries, especially when cognitive decline is a factor.
A Marietta elder law lawyer helps ensure the older adult’s voice remains central in all planning and decision-making processes. This advocacy is essential for preserving dignity, independence and legal rights.
What An Elder Law Attorney Does And Does Not Do
An elder law attorney provides comprehensive legal guidance specifically tailored to the needs of older adults and their families. Examples include:
- Helping plan for long-term care and Medicaid eligibility
- Drafting essential documents like powers of attorney and advance directives
- Protecting assets while helping facilitate access to necessary care
- Assisting with guardianship or conservatorship proceedings when needed
While elder law attorneys offer broad support, there are limits to their role. They do not:
- Provide medical diagnoses or treatment recommendations
- Offer financial investment advice or manage client assets
- Make decisions on behalf of clients unless legally authorized through proper documentation
Understanding what legal counsel can and cannot do helps families set realistic expectations and make informed choices. Even better, sound legal guidance can make a meaningful difference in the quality of life for older adults and those who love them.
Your Guide Through Aging-Related Legal Concerns
Whether you are concerned about an aging-related issue or want to start planning early, we can create a personalized solution that meets your needs and goals. Connect with our compassionate Marietta elder law lawyer today at MDSLaw Ohio by calling us at 740-846-6055. You may also send our firm an email to schedule your free initial consultation with Mr. Scott.