When is an Heir not an Heir?
Mississippi inheritance law applies when one dies without a Will or trust. This law provides that the assets and property of the deceased person will descend to his or her…
There’s Still Time to Go Back to Traditional Medicare
Annual Enrollment for Medicare Advantage plans has ended, but the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, allowing plan changes or a return to traditional Medicare continues through March 31, 2019. Make…
Opting Out of IDEA Services Did Not Circumvent IDEA's Exhaustion Mandate
The parents of minor child E.D., an individual with Down syndrome, sought accommodations at Palmyra Elementary School under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Specifically, the parents requested…
Three Steps to a Successful New Year
Do you make New Year’s resolutions? Or do you just set goals? Many studies and surveys have shown that a majority of people intend to “get their legal affairs in…
What Happens to Mom’s House When She Goes to Nursing Home
One of the more frequent questions we have received is “Can Medicaid take Mom’s house when she goes into a nursing home?” The answer is “No” in Mississippi, and a…
Stock Broker Rules Protect Older Investors
Many clients have savings invested with securities brokers/dealers. These companies and advisers are regulated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). FINRA is not part of the government, but is…
Upcoming Events and Presentations
Below are some upcoming presentations by Richard Courtney on various elder law and special needs planning topics, followed by important information about some great events to be put on by…
Spousal Protections for Medicaid Waivers Set to Expire
Persons with Disabilities and Seniors Want to Remain at Home with Their Families Developing a disability can happen to anyone and at any age. At present, Medicaid is the primary…
Holiday Blues – Depression in the Elderly
The holiday season is quickly coming upon us. If you are a caregiver for an elderly loved one, you may notice a change in your loved one's mood as the…
2019 Social Security and Public Benefit Figures
In most years, the money amounts pertaining to eligibility for, and benefits from, various governmental benefit programs change. Listed below are the 2019 figures for some Social Security, Medicare and…