Estate Planning, Guardianships and Elder Law

Pittsburgh Attorney: Estate Planning and Elder Law

At the law office of Carolyn Spicer Russ, I counsel clients throughout the greater Pittsburgh area in all matters involving planning for end-of-life and incapacity, including guardianships. Contact me to schedule a confidential consultation.

Incapacity and Estate Planning

I provide comprehensive counsel to help you understand the different strategies available to protect your interests and the interests of your loved ones in the event of your death or incapacity. Once you have made an informed decision that protects you and your loved ones, I will carefully prepare all documents necessary to implement your plan, including:

• Wills, including simple wills
• Trusts
  • Special needs trusts
  • Living and testamentary trusts
  • Revocable and irrevocable trusts
  • Trusts for minors
• Powers of attorney, including health care POAs
• Living wills

I have experience providing counsel to clients who have concerns about the role of their faith in end-of-life planning matters and am familiar with the implications of Roman Catholic law, Jewish law and Orthodox Jewish law on issues such as living wills.

Guardianships

A guardianship is a court-ordered relationship that gives you the authority to conduct the affairs of another person. Guardianships are customarily granted for people who lack the capacity to make their own decisions. Because the person involved generally loses most civil rights, including the right to conduct financial transactions and enter into contracts, you need legal advice before you file a petition for guardianship.

At the office of Carolyn Spicer Russ, I can help you decide whether a guardianship is appropriate and establish one, if necessary.

Elder Law Issues

If you require long-term care in your last years, most of the value of your estate can be lost to cover the costs of that care, if you have not planned properly. I will help you develop a plan that allows you to get the care you need while minimizing the impact on your estate. I will work closely with you to evaluate and implement retirement and Medicaid planning strategies to meet these objectives.

For knowledgeable and compassionate representation in all matters involving planning for incapacity or death, including guardianships, contact my office to arrange a confidential consultation. I offer flexible appointments upon request and will visit you in the hospital, at your home, or in a nursing home. I am also available to make emergency calls in end-of-life situations.

Carolyn Spicer Russ

1007 Mount Royal Boulevard
Pittsburgh, PA 15223
Phone: (412) 492-8975
Fax: (412) 492-8978

At the law office of Carolyn Spicer Russ, I represent clients throughout the greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, area, including North Hills, Etna, Sharpsburg, Aspinwall, Fox Chapel, Millvale, Blawnox, Shaler, Glenshaw, West View, Allison Park, Gibsonia, Ross, McCandless, East End, Squirrel Hill, Oakland, East Liberty and Point Breeze.