Arnold LaRochelle Mathews VanConas & Zirbel LLP

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805-988-9886
Arnold LaRochelle Mathews VanConas & Zirbel LLP
805-988-9886
Defending Rights.
Preserving Resources.
Securing Futures.

Special Needs Planning Attorneys Serving Ventura County And California

Arnold LaRochelle Mathews VanConas & Zirbel LLP, brings more than 150 years of combined legal experience to families across Ventura County. We understand that planning for a loved one with special needs is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. More than legal knowledge, it requires genuine care and we are here to help you build a plan that protects your loved one’s future and gives your family real peace of mind.

What Is Special Needs Planning In California?

Special needs planning is the process of creating legal and financial strategies to support a person living with a disability. It ensures your loved one can access the care they need now and well into the future. A well-built plan also protects their eligibility for vital government benefits like Medi-Cal and Supplemental Security Income.

Families with a child, sibling or other loved one who has a physical or developmental disability should consider this type of planning. It helps you manage assets, designate caregivers and make key decisions about long-term care. Ultimately, planning ahead gives your family clarity and protects your loved one when you are no longer able to do so.

The Essential Tools In Special Needs Planning

A strong special needs plan draws on several legal tools. Each one serves a specific purpose in protecting your loved one’s care and financial future. An experienced attorney can help you determine which of the following belong in your plan:

  • Special needs trust (third-party): A trust funded by family members or others that holds assets for your loved one without affecting their government benefit eligibility
  • Special needs trust (first-party): A trust funded with the disabled person’s own assets, often from settlements or inheritance, with Medicaid payback requirements upon death
  • CalABLE account: A tax-advantaged savings account for Californians with disabilities that allows limited savings without immediately losing eligibility for public benefits
  • Conservatorship: A legal process in which a court appoints someone to make personal and financial decisions for an adult who cannot make them independently

The right plan depends on your loved one’s unique needs and circumstances.

Your Loved One Deserves A Plan Built To Last

That peace of mind is within reach. Arnold LaRochelle Mathews VanConas & Zirbel LLP, has deep roots in Ventura County. We have built lasting relationships with the families we serve across generations. We are committed to giving you prompt, personalized legal guidance at every stage of the planning process. Call our office at 805-988-9886 or reach out to us online to schedule your consultation today.