With 88,265 seniors living in Memphis
(14.01% 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 3 elder law attorneys serving Memphis 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)
Memphis has a growing senior population of roughly 88,265 residents aged 65 and older, making up about 14% of the city's 630,027 people. For families dealing with estate planning, Medicaid eligibility, or long-term care decisions, having a qualified elder law attorney nearby is essential.
Sencarta lists 3 verified elder law attorneys serving the Memphis area, and all 3 hold certification from the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA). That credential matters because NAELA certification requires specialized training in issues like guardianship, Social Security, and nursing home regulations. It signals a level of focus that general practice attorneys typically lack.
Memphis seniors and their families can use Sencarta to compare these local professionals side by side, review their credentials, and connect with an attorney who fits their specific situation.
Why Choose a Local Elder Law Attorney in Memphis?
Tennessee has its own rules around Medicaid eligibility, powers of attorney, and conservatorship proceedings. An elder law attorney based in Memphis will know how Shelby County courts handle these matters and can guide families through the process without unnecessary delays. Local knowledge also helps when coordinating with Memphis-area facilities. The city is home to major medical centers like Methodist Le Bonheur and St. Jude, and neighborhoods like Germantown and Bartlett have significant retiree populations. An attorney familiar with these communities can offer practical, grounded advice.
All 3 elder law attorneys listed on Sencarta are certified professionals. Sencarta's directory makes it easy to check each attorney's credentials and NAELA certification status before scheduling a consultation, so you know exactly who you are working with from the start.
What to Look for in a Elder Law Attorney
When choosing an elder law attorney in Memphis, 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 Memphis 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 Memphis's local probate court procedures?
8. What happens if my loved one's situation changes after we complete our planning?
