Services :: Special Needs Planning

Being parents of a young adult daughter with Special Needs, we have spent many years researching, learning and preparing for her present and her future. We found that ‘you don’t know what you don’t know.’ Our dedication to families like ours began over 25 years ago as we were just beginning to notice developmental difficulties with our daughter. An article we found particularly helpful for the emotional journey is reprinted with permission in our Special Needs Parenting Blog section. Click here to read "Welcome to Holland" by Emily Perl Kingsley.

There are many legal, educational, medical and social issues that come with Special Needs parenting. Much of the groundwork for the future must begin in the early days. At The Handley Law Office, we offer resources for many stages of your child with Special Needs’ life along with common sense and comprehensive legal planning.

Medicaid Waiver Interest Lists

Medicaid Waiver Programs offer the means to help your child/young adult have a meaningful life. The Waivers allow the State to assist individuals with disabilities with long-term services. As the waiting lists for some services are upwards of 12 years, it’s important to add your child’s name to the applicable lists as early as possible. You can always turn it down when your child’s place in line moves forward but not having a place in line early will result in tremendous delays for necessary services.

Guardianship or Alternatives to Guardianship

Guardianship or Alternatives to Guardianship are ways that parents can care for their child after age 18 when they legally become an adult in the State of Texas. The decision on whether to seek Guardianship or if an Alternative to Guardianship will suffice will depend on many factors. We will sit down with you, learn about your family, meet your child and guide you towards the solution that makes the most sense for your situation. Remember Guardianship is not permanent. If your loves one progresses in life and does not need Guardianship anymore, you can go back to court and return the rights to him or her. Guardianship can also be Full or Partial.

Special Needs Trusts

Having a Special Needs Trust is essential for individuals with disabilities who either currently receive or anticipate receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and Medicaid. In order to maintain SSI which has an asset limit of $2,000 ($3,000 for couples), a Trust becomes the beneficiary of any assets. There are several types of Special Needs Trusts; which one to form will depend on where the assets originate.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid

For those that meet the criteria, SSI and Medicaid are important government benefits for those with disabilities. SSI offers a monthly income and, in the State of Texas, once an individual is approved for SSI, Medicaid is automatic. Learning the ins and outs of SSI and Medicaid plus applying for the benefits is easier with a knowledgeable attorney who has done the same for his daughter.

At The Handley Law Office, we’ve been where you are now and understand how confusing the legal issues surrounding Special Needs concerns are. Contact The Handley Law Office to set an appointment with a compassionate attorney who understands the process: 281.703.3616 or Boyd@TheHandleyLawOffice.com.