Greensboro Special Needs Planning Lawyer

Let OUr Firm Help Your Loved One's Future

Planning for a loved one with special needs requires careful thought to ensure their future financial security and well-being. At Law Offices of Cheryl David, we are dedicated to helping families in Guilford County develop comprehensive, personalized special needs plans. Led by an attorney with over 30 years of experience, our team can help you create a strategy that protects your loved one’s future while preserving access to government benefits such as Medicaid and Social Security.  

We recognize the emotional and financial challenges families face when planning for the long-term care of a loved one with special needs. Our goal is to provide you with clarity and confidence in knowing that your loved one will be well cared for in the future. Get more than 25 years of experience on your side!

Reach out to us today at (336) 717-0375 or via our online form to learn more.

The Importance of Special Needs Planning

Special needs planning is about far more than drafting documents—it’s about safeguarding a loved one’s future. Many individuals with disabilities rely on government benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, or other needs-based assistance programs. Unfortunately, even a modest inheritance or poorly structured financial gift can unintentionally disqualify them from these vital benefits.

Working with a Greensboro special needs planning lawyer helps ensure that assets are protected while eligibility for public benefits remains intact. A proper plan addresses not only finances, but also housing, medical care, education, transportation, and personal support services. It also allows families to make critical decisions in advance, rather than leaving them to courts or government agencies later.

Without a solid plan in place, families may face unnecessary legal complications, financial strain, and uncertainty during already challenging times. Special needs planning offers clarity, control, and long-term stability

Common Types of Special Needs Planning

Special needs planning is not one-size-fits-all. At Law Offices of Cheryl David, we customize each plan to meet the individual needs of your family and loved one. Common types of special needs planning include:

Special Needs Trusts (SNTs)

A special needs trust is one of the most important tools available. These trusts allow assets to be held for the benefit of a person with disabilities without affecting their eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. Funds from the trust can be used for supplemental expenses such as therapy, education, travel, recreation, and personal care.

Guardianship and Conservatorship Planning

When a loved one is unable to make certain legal or financial decisions independently, guardianship or conservatorship may be necessary. Proper planning can help families understand when court involvement is required and explore less restrictive alternatives when appropriate.

ABLE Accounts

ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) accounts allow individuals with disabilities to save and invest money for qualified expenses while maintaining eligibility for public benefits. These accounts can complement, but not replace, a well-drafted special needs trust.

Estate Planning for Families with Special Needs

Traditional estate plans often fail to address the unique challenges of disability planning. Special needs planning integrates wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney to ensure assets are distributed responsibly and safely.

Caregiver and Successor Planning

A strong plan accounts for what happens if a primary caregiver becomes incapacitated or passes away. This includes identifying successor caregivers and outlining care preferences to ensure continuity and stability.

Benefits of Special Needs Planning

Partnering with our Greensboro special needs planning attorney offers significant advantages for both individuals with disabilities and their families:

• Protection of Government Benefits: Proper planning helps preserve access to SSI, Medicaid, and other needs-based programs.
• Financial Security: Assets are managed responsibly for long-term support without unnecessary risk or loss.
• Customized Care Planning: Families can outline specific instructions regarding medical care, living arrangements, education, and daily needs.
• Reduced Family Conflict: Clear legal documents minimize disputes and confusion among family members.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your loved one’s future is protected allows you to focus on enjoying the present.

Special needs planning empowers families to take proactive control of uncertain situations and provides reassurance that your loved one will be cared for according to your wishes.