about us
Missoula Elder Law & Guardianship Attorneys
Guiding Western Montana Families Through Aging Issues
Navigating the legal and financial questions that come with aging can feel overwhelming. Our Missoula elder law attorneys help seniors and their families plan for long term care, manage decision making, and respond to concerns about abuse or exploitation. Bulman, Jones & Cook focuses on practical steps that protect vulnerable adults in Missoula, Hamilton, Polson, Plains, Thompson Falls, and surrounding communities.
Elder Law Services For Seniors And Caregivers
Elder law blends planning, advocacy, and protection. We assist with
guardianships and conservatorships for adults who can no longer manage their affairs, Medicaid and long term care planning, and responding to signs of elder abuse or neglect. Our team also reviews existing wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to be sure they reflect current health and family circumstances.
Guardianships And Conservatorships In Montana
Sometimes, a power of attorney is not enough because a parent or loved one has lost the ability to understand or sign legal documents. In those cases, the court can appoint a guardian to make personal and medical decisions and a conservator to manage finances. Bulman, Jones & Cook prepares petitions, gathers medical support, represents you at hearings in Missoula and Western Montana courts, and helps ensure any order is no more restrictive than necessary.
Medicaid And Long Term Care Planning
Nursing home and assisted living costs in Montana can quickly drain savings. Medicaid may help cover long term care, but strict income and asset rules apply and the program looks back at certain transfers when you apply. We review your situation, explain what assets are countable or exempt, and help develop a strategy that respects both care needs and family financial goals.
Addressing Elder Abuse And Financial Exploitation
Unfortunately, some seniors experience neglect, physical abuse, or financial exploitation from caregivers, family members, or scammers. Our attorneys help families recognize warning signs, report concerns to the right agencies, and seek legal remedies in court when needed. Bulman, Jones & Cook can also design planning tools, like monitored conservatorships or carefully structured trusts, that place protections around an elder's assets.
Elder Law FAQs For Montana Families
When should I consider a guardianship for a parent
Guardianship is usually appropriate when a parent can no longer make safe decisions and did not sign valid powers of attorney. Warning signs include missed medications, unpaid bills, and confusion about basic safety. We can review your concerns and help you weigh whether guardianship or another solution fits best.
Can planning help preserve assets while qualifying for Medicaid
In many cases, yes, but timing and rules matter. Some assets are exempt, and there are protections for a healthy spouse, yet improper transfers can cause penalties. We work with you to understand the current rules and create a plan that respects both care needs and legal requirements.
What if my parent is being pressured to change their will
Sudden changes in documents, new "friends" controlling access, or isolation from long time contacts are red flags. If you suspect undue influence, we can evaluate capacity issues, recommend steps to protect your parent, and help challenge improper changes when appropriate. It is important to act quickly before more harm is done.
Do elder law attorneys also handle estate planning
Yes, many elder law matters intersect with wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Our firm can review or draft these documents with an eye toward long term care, capacity, and family dynamics. This comprehensive approach helps avoid conflicts and surprises down the road.
How can we help an elder who is reluctant to accept assistance
It is common for older adults to fear losing independence. We encourage respectful conversations, explore less restrictive options, and explain how tools like limited guardianships or supportive powers of attorney can preserve as much control as possible. If serious safety risks exist, we can also discuss court interventions.
Supporting Seniors And Their Families
Caring for an aging parent or spouse is not just a legal task, it is an emotional one. Our role is to shoulder the legal work so your family can focus on care, safety, and dignity. When you are ready to talk, Bulman, Jones & Cook will listen carefully and outline a clear plan for your next steps.