With 2,706 seniors living in Hershey
(18.43% of the population)
, families here face important decisions about care, finances, and life transitions every day.
Whether you're planning for the future with estate documents, navigating the complexities of Medicaid eligibility, or addressing guardianship concerns, working with an attorney who specializes in elder law can make all the difference. These professionals understand the specific legal challenges facing older adults — from protecting assets to ensuring healthcare wishes are honored — in ways that general practice attorneys simply don't.
We've verified 1 elder law attorney serving Hershey who have made senior services their specialty. Browse their profiles below to find the right fit for your family.
Population data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates (2022)
Hershey, PA is home to a growing senior community, with an estimated 2,706 residents aged 65 and older out of a total population of 14,682. That means roughly one in five Hershey residents is a senior, and many of them face legal questions about estate planning, Medicaid eligibility, long-term care, and guardianship. Finding a qualified elder law attorney in Hershey can make a real difference for families dealing with these issues.
Sencarta lists 1 verified elder law attorney serving the Hershey area, and that professional holds certification from the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA). NAELA certification signals a serious commitment to this specialized field, requiring demonstrated experience in areas like Medicaid planning, special needs trusts, and veterans' benefits. For Hershey families, this means access to an attorney with focused expertise rather than a general practitioner handling elder law on the side.
With the Penn State Hershey Medical Center nearby and several assisted living communities in the area, including those along Chocolate Avenue and in neighboring Hummelstown, many local families find themselves needing legal guidance as loved ones transition into care. Having a credentialed elder law attorney close to home means faster consultations and an attorney who understands Dauphin County's local court system and resources.
Why Choose a Local Elder Law Attorney in Hershey?
Elder law is deeply tied to state-specific rules. Pennsylvania has its own Medicaid eligibility thresholds, estate recovery laws, and inheritance tax rules that differ significantly from neighboring states. An elder law attorney based in the Hershey area will be familiar with Dauphin County's Office of Aging and Adult Services, local Area Agency on Aging programs, and the specific procedures at the Dauphin County courthouse. That local knowledge helps families avoid costly missteps when applying for benefits or setting up trusts.
Sencarta helps you find professionals you can trust before you walk in the door. Of the elder law attorneys listed in Hershey, 1 holds professional certification through NAELA. We track credentials, verification status, and background check completion so you can compare attorneys based on real qualifications. For Hershey families caring for aging parents or planning ahead for their own future, starting with a vetted local attorney saves time and reduces risk.
What to Look for in a Elder Law Attorney
When choosing an elder law attorney in Hershey, look for someone who focuses specifically on issues affecting seniors and their families. Key credentials include membership in the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) and relevant state bar certifications. Experience matters: ask how many Medicaid applications they've handled, whether they've dealt with contested guardianships, and how familiar they are with local probate courts.
A good elder law attorney should also be a good communicator. They'll be explaining complex legal concepts to family members who may be stressed or unfamiliar with legal processes. Look for someone who takes time to answer questions and doesn't rush through consultations.
Services Offered by Elder Law Attorneys
Elder law attorneys in Hershey typically handle a range of services focused on aging-related legal needs:
• Estate Planning: Wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and advance healthcare directives
• Medicaid Planning: Strategies for qualifying for long-term care benefits while protecting assets
• Guardianship & Conservatorship: Court proceedings when a loved one can no longer make decisions
• Veterans Benefits: Assistance with Aid & Attendance and other VA programs
• Long-Term Care Planning: Nursing home contracts, assisted living agreements
• Elder Abuse: Protection from financial exploitation and neglect
• Special Needs Planning: Trusts for disabled family members
Questions to Ask a Elder Law Attorney
Before hiring an elder law attorney, consider asking these questions:
1. What percentage of your practice is dedicated to elder law?
2. Are you a member of NAELA or certified in elder law by your state bar?
3. How many Medicaid applications have you handled in the past year?
4. What is your fee structure — hourly, flat fee, or both?
5. How do you communicate with clients — phone, email, in-person meetings?
6. Can you provide references from families you've helped with similar situations?
7. How familiar are you with Hershey's local probate court procedures?
8. What happens if my loved one's situation changes after we complete our planning?
