Understanding the Letter of Intent in Special Needs Planning

A Letter of Intent is a crucial document in special needs planning that serves as a roadmap for the future care of a person with disabilities. It is not a legally binding document but acts as a guide for future caregivers and trustees by detailing the life of the individual with special needs, including their routines, preferences, and care requirements. Crafting this document is often seen as a best practice in comprehensive special needs planning, ensuring that the individual’s quality of life is maintained in the event of their primary caregiver's absence.

This personalized document goes beyond the scope of legal and financial directives to include practical aspects of the individual's daily life. It can outline anything from the specifics of dietary preferences to the methods of communication that are most effective for the individual. The Letter of Intent should be updated regularly to reflect any changes in the individual’s life, care needs, or family circumstances.

In the realm of estate planning, a Letter of Intent complements a Special Needs Trust by providing context and personal insights that legal documents alone cannot convey. While the Trust may manage the financial aspects necessary for care, the Letter of Intent communicates the care recipient's story, needs, and wishes to those who will step into the caregiving role. It ensures continuity in the quality and manner of care that the individual receives.

For parents and caregivers, drafting a Letter of Intent is an act of love and foresight. It is a comprehensive document that communicates the nuances of care that only a primary caregiver would know. This letter is shared with all who are involved in the individual’s life, from family members to legal professionals, ensuring that the circle of support is well-informed.

The Letter of Intent becomes particularly important as the individual with special needs transitions into adulthood and possibly into different care arrangements. It provides a sense of security and continuity for both the individual with special needs and their family. Ultimately, it supports the goal of a seamless transition, preserving the individual’s lifestyle and personal dignity as much as possible.

Estate Planning:

Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney

Guardianship:

Adult Guardianship, Supported Decision-Making, Limited Guardianship

Special Needs Planning:

Special Needs Trusts, DDD & ALTCS Planning

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Take it off your to-do list and rest easy: our team focuses our Arizona legal practice in special needs planning and estate planning.

We are dedicated to helping individuals and families create personalized plans that address their unique needs and goals. We want you to sleep easy knowing your plan is in place.

Our services include estate planning, adult guardianship, government benefits protection planning (ALTCS, DDD, SSI), and more.

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Phone: 480-699-3145

Address: 1747 East Morten Avenue, Suite 105, Phoenix, AZ 85020

E-mail: info@emilytaylorlaw.com

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Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday: Closed

Saturdays: By Appointment Only

Emily R. Taylor is an attorney licensed by the State Bar of Arizona. Emily Taylor practices in the areas of Special Needs Planning, Guardianships (and its alternatives), Estate Planning, and Special Needs Trusts. The office of Emily R. Taylor, Attorney PLLC is located in Phoenix, Arizona. Emily Taylor is available to consult on legal matters throughout the state of Arizona.

The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.