Associate

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP•Rochester, NY

9d•$120,000 - $160,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for a motivated Elder Law Attorney to join our growing team. This position is responsible for counseling clients on long term care planning, Medicaid eligibility, asset protection, and estate planning. The ideal candidate has a strong work ethic, exceptional client communication skills, and is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where matters are often time-sensitive and emotionally charged.

Requirements

J.D. from an accredited law school
Admission to the New York State Bar required
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite: Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly to clients and families
Ability to prioritize workload and independently manage multiple matters simultaneously
Must maintain professional relationships with attorneys, staff, clients, and outside agencies and observe strict confidentiality of all client and firm matters

Nice To Haves

5+ years of elder law, estate planning, or related experience preferred
Familiarity with New York Medicaid rules, DSS application procedures, and long-term care planning strategies preferred
NAELA membership or demonstrated interest in elder law policy a plus

Responsibilities

Counsel clients on Medicaid eligibility for nursing home and community-based long-term care, including New York's five-year lookback rules and asset protection strategies
Draft and review estate planning documents including Wills, Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies, and various Trust Agreements
Prepare Medicaid gift and note plans, asset summaries, and flowcharts
Assist with Medicaid applications and coordinate with experienced Medicaid paralegals on submission of required documentation to county DSS offices
Represent clients in administrative hearings and court appeals involving wrongfully denied benefits or Medicaid estate recovery claims
Advise on supplemental needs trusts and special needs planning for individuals with disabilities
Advise on guardianships, spousal impoverishment protections, pooled income trusts, and community spouse resource allowances
Coordinate with clients, financial advisors, accountants, and skilled nursing facilities to ensure planning is compliant with federal and state Medicaid law
Provide professional, efficient, and compassionate client service in person, by telephone, and in writing
Stay current on developments in New York Medicaid law and policy through continuing legal education and participation in organizations such as NAELA and the NYSBA Elder Law and Special Needs Section
Perform other duties as needed upon request by department chair or firm management