Elder Law

Catalog description

Elective Course Course Requirement: final paper This course surveys significant legal issues facing elders in America. It aims to do so in a way that is not only interesting for the general law school population, but also practical for those considering a career in elder law, and those who may be called upon to assist elderly friends and family members. Over the course of the semester, students will develop an understanding of important professional and ethical issues involved in representing elderly clients, and an understanding of key issues of importance to older adults. Topics of study will include income maintenance and the social security system; access to health care and the role of Medicaid in providing home health services; senior housing (including nursing home and assisted living issues); estate planning and guardianship. This is a survey course, so we will only skim the surface of the topics listed on your syllabus, but your principal assessments will require you to pick a topic listed on this syllabus to do further research, write a final paper and make a presentation about this topic. You are also required to interview an elderly member of your community or family, as well as an elder law attorney. The course aims to be participatory, and your engagement in weekly discussions as well as timely submission of all assignments is required.