![](/templates/sdelc_bd_v1/images/special-needs-overview.jpg#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)
If you have a family member with a disability, you want to assure they have the best possible care and quality of life, both now and later when you are no longer able to be the advocate you are today. If you are a person with a disability, you want to be able to qualify for the benefits and programs you need to achieve as much independence as possible. At San Diego Specials Needs Law Center, it is our mission to make sure you have all the support and tools in place to achieve these goals. The skills required for a “Special Needs Law” attorney are almost identical with the field of Elder Law: Familiarity with the rules of Public Benefits programs such as SSI and Medi-Cal; thoughtful planning for the care of someone who needs assistance, and; providing the needed financial and support tools for families and caregivers. Since there is no certified specialization in California for “Special Needs Law,” the majority of qualified Special Needs Planning Attorneys will identify themselves also as “Elder Law Attorneys,” with many of them also qualifying as Certified Specialists in the fields of either Elder Law, Estate Planning, or both. While at first blush, this relationship between “elder” and “special needs” law is not obvious, the informed special needs consumer should understand this close association between “elder” and “special needs” law to obtain the best qualified legal assistance. At San Diego Specials Needs Law Center, we have extensive experience in Special Needs Law and our community, working in the following practice areas:
- Special Needs Trusts and Estate Planning for Special Needs Families
- Conservatorships and Limited Conservatorships for the Developmentally Disabled
- Public Benefits Planning
- Care Advocacy
- Preservation of Benefits Eligibility in Litigation Settlement or Inheritance Scenarios Life Care Planning
We also enjoy our relationships with various advocacy groups and the disability community. It is through the interaction with our clients and these groups that we continue to learn and grow, and better serve our client’s needs.
Our Senior attorney, Phil Lindsley, is both a Certified Elder Law Attorney and a Certified Legal Specialist in Estate Planning, Trusts and Probate (State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization).