#United States #Bellevue #special needs #Elder Law #NAELA

Annual NAELA Conference 2025: A Platform for Change

The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) is set to open registration for its highly anticipated annual conference, which will take place from May 8 to May 9, 2025, in Bellevue, Washington. This conference gathers professionals committed to advancing the quality of legal services for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

One notable feature of this year's conference is the opportunity for attendees to earn up to 10 Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits. This educational benefit is essential for practicing attorneys who need to stay informed about the continuously evolving landscape of elder law and special needs issues.

Conference Highlights

The agenda is robust and timely, covering several pressing topics relevant to elder law and special needs attorneys. Key sessions will focus on:

• - Detecting and Avoiding Scams: With the rise of scams targeting older adults, attorneys will learn ways to help their clients identify and mitigate these risks effectively.
• - Legal Ethics in the Age of AI: As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into legal practice, navigating its implications on ethics is crucial. This session will explore how to address these challenges while serving clients’ best interests.
• - Privacy Rights versus Guardianship: Participants will examine the balance between respecting clients' privacy and ensuring that guardianship matters are handled ethically and legally.
• - Housing Options for Disabled Individuals: Attendees will discuss strategies for securing suitable housing that promotes independence for individuals with disabilities.
• - Future Planning for Adults with Disabilities: A session that brings peace of mind to families regarding proactive planning for adult children with disabilities.

Additionally, attendees will be privileged to hear a keynote address by Matthew Goerke, a noted memory expert known for developing the Memory Switch Program. Goerke will share techniques to enhance memory recall, a valuable skill for attorneys needing to retain vast information.

Before the conference officially begins, a one-day workshop will be available on May 7. This intensive session focuses on mastering complex trusts, addressing topics like asset protection, benefits preservation, and tax optimization strategies. This workshop is separate and incurs an additional fee but could substantially benefit those dealing with complex legal landscapes.

The Importance of the NAELA Conference

Alexander T. Graham, the CEO of NAELA, emphasizes the necessity of this conference in today’s multifaceted legal environment. “Given the rapidly changing regulations and political dynamics, it’s essential that attorneys have access to cutting-edge information,” he explains. This annual gathering not only empowers legal practitioners but also enhances their ability to advocate effectively for their clients' legal, health, and financial needs.

NAELA’s dedication to supporting attorneys extends beyond the conference; it provides ongoing education, advocacy, and a community network that strengthens the legal support system for older Americans and individuals with disabilities. With over 4,000 members and 33 active state chapters, NAELA is at the forefront of advocating for improved legal services in this field.

Registration and Networking Opportunities

Registration is now open for both NAELA members and the public. Members who register before the early-bird deadline of March 31 can save $100 on their registration fees. For those passionate about enhancing their professional skills and serving a critical demographic of society, attending this conference is an opportunity not to be missed.

For more details like the conference program or registration information, visit NAELA.org/Annual_Conference.

In conclusion, the NAELA Annual Conference is not just an educational event; it’s a comprehensive platform that focuses on critical issues impacting the lives of older adults and those with special needs, making it a must-attend event for legal professionals in this field.