ABOUT
ELDER NEEDS LAW, PLLC

elder needs law
Elder Needs Law,PLLC

Elder Needs Law, PLLC, is a prominent Florida Elder Law Firm comprised of a team of compassionate and highly-skilled professionals who are committed to helping seniors and their families understand how elder law services can assist them in estate and long-term care planning.

The firm’s services encompass the ‘Elder Law Umbrella’, including Medicaid Planning, Asset Protection Planning and Asset/Wealth Preservation, Incapacity Planning, Trusts and Estate Planning, Probate, and Guardianship.

Elder Needs Law, PLLC has four physical offices in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Hernando County. The Firm is also proud to serve clients statewide virtually.

WHO OUR CLIENTS ARE:

Our clients are Florida residents, and those relocating to the state. They have raised families, built careers, and contributed to their communities. Through hard work their entire lives, our clients have amassed savings, investments, real estate, and other assets. We seek to educate our clients so they understand the full range of government benefits to which they are entitled (either currently or those benefits that they can attain through strategic planning).

Our clients may need long-term care assistance (home care, ALF care or skilled nursing facility care). Our clients realize that their hard-earned assets need to be preserved and protected, for their ongoing care, as they progress through life stages. By preserving what they have, our clients are able to lead a higher quality of life and have more assets to pass onto their heirs.

Our clients are looking to the future and realize how important it is to plan-ahead and for the unforeseen, ill-health and disability and ensure there is a trusted family member or friend empowered to act on their behalf. Our clients understand the value of putting their affairs in order, through comprehensive Estate Planning.

Our clients want financial freedom and autonomy, through strategic advanced planning. Our clients want to work with a law firm that will provide solutions that meet their unique needs.

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL TEAM

Jason Neufeld, Esq.
Managing Partner, and Board Certified Elder Law AttorneyJason Neufeld, Esq.,
Founder, Managing Partner, and Principal Attorney

Jason Neufeld, Esq. (jason@elderneedslaw.com). Jason Neufeld is the Owner and Managing Partner of Elder Needs Law, PLLC. He is Florida Board-Certified in Elder Law and President-Elect, Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys.

Jason is a highly-respected authority in Elder Law, with a distinction in Medicaid and Asset Protection Planning. An "AV" Preeminent-rated attorney by Martindale-Hubbell, Jason is recognized among Florida’s top lawyers in Super Lawyers and Florida Trend's Legal Elite (2012-2024).

His firm, Elder Needs Law, PLLC, is known for delivering vital elder law services, including Medicaid Planning, Asset Protection,Government Benefits Preservation, Estate Planning, and Probate Administration. Jason’s dedication extends beyond client advocacy to professional leadership; he serveson the board of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys and is Co-Chair ofthe Broward County Bar Association’s Elder Law Section.

An educator and community advocate, Jason regularly provides training on Medicaid Planning to fellow attorneys and presents to organizations across Florida, empowering families and professionals with knowledge about navigating complex benefits.

Jason is also the author of How to Get Medicaid to Pay for Some or All of Your Long-Term Care Expenses: Without Having to Wait Five Years, Without Having to Sell Your House, and Without Having to Go Broke First, a practical guide for families exploring Medicaid options and The Special Needs Trust Guide, available in print and audio. Specially-written valuable resources to help families understand how to manage long-term care costs while protecting their assets and employ their asset protection strategies effectively.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE: (305) 614-7127      

Carrie N. Felice, Esq.
Partner

Carrie N. Felice, Esq. (carrie@elderneedslaw.com). Carrie is a Partner and Department Chair at Elder Needs Law, PLLC, where she leads the Estate Planning, Probate, and Real Estatedivisions.

With extensive experience and in-depth legal expertise, Carrie oversees these areas as Lead Attorney,offering clients strategic guidance and dedicated representation to protect their interests and achieve their long-term goals. In estate planning, Carrie collaborates closely with clients to develop customized plans that honor their personal wishes, secure their assets, and create lasting legacies for future generations.

Her expertise in probate allows her to handle the complexities of estate administration, guiding clients through the probate process with efficiency and compliance, minimizing stress during what can be challenging times.

Carrie holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy and a Juris Doctor from Regent University, bringing a well-rounded, insightful approach to each client engagement. As a trusted advisor and firm leader, Carrie is dedicated to providing exceptional service and personalized legal solutions across estate planning, probate, and real estate matters. EXTERNAL/OFFICE/CLIENTS: (351) 204-9611        

Jody Miller, Esq.
Associate Attorney

Jody Miller, Esq. (jody@elderneedslaw.com). Jody is an Associate Attorney and the Firm’s lead Drafting Attorney, specializing in the meticulous preparation and management oflegal documentation.

With a primary focus on drafting, Jody oversees the entire legal document preparation process, ensuring accuracy and compliance in every stage. From gathering essential data for document creation to the careful drafting and review of legal documents, Jody maintains high standards to protect and advance client interests.

Jody is responsible for distributing finalized drafts to clients, coordinating document signing procedures, and tracking the progress of signed documents to ensure timely completion. Herexpertise extends to handling complex processes such as PSNT/EPIC documentation, deed recording, and other critical filings, which she manages on behalf ofengaged clients with precision and attention to detail.

Jody’s robust educational background includes both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Accounting, a Juris Doctor, and an LL.M. in Taxation—all from the University of Florida. As a Certified Public Accountant, she brings a unique perspective that combines legal and financial acumen, adding value to the firm’s services.

Jody’s comprehensive approach to document preparation and commitment to excellence is an invaluable asset. EXTERNAL/OFFICE/CLIENTS: (954) 663-8836            

Alyssa Neufeld, Esq.
Associate Attorney

Alyssa Neufeld, Esq. (alyssa@elderneedslaw.com). Alyssa Neufeld is an Associate Attorney at Elder Needs Law, PLLC, specializing in Medicaid Planning, Asset Protection Planning, and Government Benefits Preservation.

With a fresh approach and dedication to client-centered solutions, Alyssa brings a dynamic perspective to the firm’s robust planning strategies. Her expertise focuses on developing tailored Plans that meet clients' long-term goals while navigating the complexities of legal requirements.

Alyssa is committed to offering strategic guidance, compassionate support, and dedicated representation, ensuring clients feel supported andprotected during pivotal life transitions.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE/CLIENTS: (561) 922-7808.

OPERATIONS & ADMINISTRATION TEAM

Chelsea Green
Fractional COO

Chelsea Green (Chelseagreen@elderneedslaw.com). As Fractional COO, Chelsea leverages her extensive experience and education to assess the firm’s operations, systems, and strategic plans.

Her role focuses on identifying opportunities for increased efficiency and sustainable growth by introducing best practices and scalable solutions.

Collaborating closely with the Director of Operations and Practice Administrator, Chelsea provides strategic guidance to align the firm’s currentinitiatives with its long-term vision. EXTERNAL/OFFICE/DIRECT: (305)747-7159  

Elana M. Murray
Director of Operations

Elana M. Murray (elana@elderneedslaw.com).  As the Firm’s Director of Operations, Elana holdsa crucial leadership role in overseeing and optimizing daily operations while serving as an integral member of the executive team.

She is responsible for the comprehensive management of the firm’s operations, including staff oversight,recruitment, training, and retention, strategies that cultivate a skilled and cohesive Team.

Elana provides direction, guidance and support ensuring a supportive workplace environment for all employees. A key contributor to the firm’s success, Elana develops and enforces workplace policies, procedures, and communication standards that promote efficiency and clarity across all levels of the firm.

Additionally, she directs client relations and marketing-communications efforts to enhance the firm’s visibility and ensure client satisfaction through communication. As the primary point of contact for high-level resolutions on behalf of Managing Partner Jason Neufeld, Elana brings a strategic, solutions-oriented approach to her leadership.

Her role in both operational management and executive decision-making is central to driving the firm’s mission of exceptional service and growth.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE: (305) 614-7379

Sandra Castro
Practice Administrator

Sandra Castro (Firmadministrator@elderneedslaw.com). Sandra serves as the Firm’s Practice Administrator, where she bridges the gap between organizational performance and exceptional client care.

She also serves as the Firm’s Sales Manager overseeing the Sales & Intake Team and Legal Assistant Team’s quality assurance across all communications—from calls to digitalmessaging—ensuring every client interaction meets the Firm’s high standards.

By managing the Firm’s CRM and matter management systems, Sandra maintains organizational precision while providing the coaching and accountability necessary for the team to thrive.

Fluent in Spanish, she is dedicated to making the Firm’s services accessible and ensuring every client feels heard, valued,and well-served. Fluent inSpanish, she also helps make the Firm’s services more accessible to a wider community.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE/DIRECT: (305) 747-7159

MEDICAID MANAGEMENT TEAM:

Tracy Meli
Senior Medicaid Legal CaseManager

Tracy Meli (tracy@elderneedslaw.com ). Tracy serves as the Firm’s Senior Medicaid Legal Case Manager, a pivotal leadership role within the Medicaid, Asset Protection, and Government Benefits Planning Team.

Managing the overall Medicaid Application Process, Tracy ensures every client’s documentation is meticulously reviewed and vetted; preparing Medicaid Applications for submission that are complete, accurate and organized for timely submission.

She conducts specialized Medicaid Waiver Waitlist coaching sessions, offering clients valuable insights and guidance to navigate the complexities of the waitlist process effectively. Tracy overseesall reporting on Medicaid client cases, using Matter Tracking Reports to keep clients and the team up-to-date on progress and milestones.

In addition to overseeing Medicaid application submissions to Medicaid/DCF, Tracy leads weekly Medicaid Team meetings, aligning the team on case strategies and workflow efficiency. She also participates in Client Medicaid Strategy sessions, collaborating with the firm’s attorneys to create personalized strategies that align with each client's goals.

With her expertise, Tracy supervises the Medicaid unit’s operations and resources, fostering an environment of excellence and continuous improvement in service delivery. Her leadership and deep knowledge of Medicaid processes are instrumental in driving the success ofour client-focused Medicaid services.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE: 561-461-0094  

PARALEGAL SERVICES TEAM:

Sarah Marcoux
Paralegal

Sarah Marcoux (paralegal@elderneedslaw.com). Sarah is the Firm’s Paralegal, specializing in the meticulous preparation of legal documentation with focus on Probate and Estate Planning. From gathering essential data for document creation to the careful drafting of legal documents, Sarah maintains high standards to ensure client satisfaction.

Sarah is responsible for distributing finalized drafts to clients, coordinating document signing procedures, and tracking the progress of signed documents to ensure timely completion. Sarah is a critical point-person for client satisfaction and communications; responsible for keeping Probate processes running smoothly and ensuring clients are kept informed during the lengthy probate process; drafting pleadings and handling court filings ensuring accuracy and compliance in every stage.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE/CLIENTS: (561)800-1120

SALES & CLIENT SERVICES TEAM:

JoseBernal
Client Engagement Specialist

Jose Bernal (jose@elderneedslaw.com). Jose is the Firm’s Client Engagement Specialist. A central member of the Team, Jose performs a keen deep dive into a potential clients' need, issue or crisis, then skillfully as certains and communicates the services that our firm offers to fulfill that need or resolve that issue or crisis.

Jose guides those in need ofour unique and valuable legal services through available options, within our Scope of Services including Medicaid Planning, Asset Protection Planning, Estate Planning and Probate, next steps, and the overall process. Jose is poised to help clients see the benefits of working with our firm and the expertise of our Team and is committed to delivering exceptional service; he ensures that client needs are met with clarity, support, and a focus one xceeding expectations.

Fluent in Spanish, he also helps make the Firm’s services more accessible to a wider community.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE/CLIENTS: (305)509-8762

Felipe Agudelo
Client Services Specialist

Felipe Agudelo (scheduling@elderneedslaw.com). Felipe is the Firm’s Client Intake Specialist. He fields inbound calls and web chat forms, as well as all medium through which the firm draws leads for potential clients; responds to messaging received from the after-hours call center.

Felipe’s expertise in sales &client services positions him to skillfully and professionally, yet empathetically assist potential clients define the core of their actual legal matter enabling him to qualify whether the firm can assist or if we must refer to an alternate resource, if able.

Felipe handles scheduling consultations, collecting intake forms and consultation fees, and creating and notating new client records in the firm’s CRM. In addition, Felipe will conduct outreach efforts on any missed or non-connected potential client opportunities and provide information on the firm’s services to clients, potential clients, and the public-at-large.

His nature and personality, coupled with top organizational skills, ensures a top client experience and seamless client engagement at every stage. Bilingual in Spanish and English, he also helps make the Firm’s services more accessible to a wider community.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE/DIRECT: (305) 598-1065

Juan Jaramillo
Client Services Specialist

Juan Jaramillo (clientservices@elderneedslaw.com ) Juan plays a key role as a lead Client Services Specialist with advanced expertise in the Firm’s Medicaid Planning services, Florida Medicaid Programs and the Firm’s comprehensive suite of Asset Protection & Preservation planning strategies.

Juan focuses his intrinsic abilities in helping potential clients gain clarity on what their need, issueor crisis is and how the Firm’s services can provide solutions and peace of mind. He helps clients define the core of their legal matter ensuring they are directed to the firm’s most suitable resources.

Juan conducts strategic follow-up for potential and current clients coordinating with the appropriate firm resources. Juan ensures that client matters are promptly and accurately actioned and additional outreach required is conducted in a timely fashion.

Bilingual in English and Spanish, Juan is committed to delivering accessible, responsive service for our clients. EXTERNAL/OFFICE/DIRECT: (561) 537-8991

LEGAL ASSISTANT TEAM:

Valeria Ramirez
Legal Assistant

Valeria Ramirez (clientsupport@elderneedslaw.com ) Valeria plays a vital role as Legal Assistant to the Managing Partner of the firm, Jason Neufeld, Esq. as well as to the firm’s other Attorneys.

Valeria also provides essential backup to the Client Services Specialists as-needed. With a commitment to maintaining strong client connections, she conducts strategic follow-ups with clients to ensure their comfort and confidence in the firm’s services in the event they require additional legal assistance in the future.

In addition, Valeria oversees the attorneys’ daily tasks to guarantee timely follow-ups and consistently meet client needs. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Valeria’s bilingual skills further enhance her dedication to accessible and responsive client service.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE/DIRECT: (305) 239-8748            

Sofia Balcazar

Sofia Balcazar (enlinformation@elderneedslaw.com ) Sofia is responsible for drafting and distributing the Firm’s Retainers, LOPs, Invoices and collecting fees due to the Firm.

Dedicated to delivering a “White-Glove” level of service, Sofia engages in strategic follow-ups with potential and existing clients ensuring every interaction is seamless and thorough, maintaining strong client relationships.

Sofia provides support to all senior management and serves as backup support to the Attorneys of the firm on a part-time basis. Sofia responds to client questions, sending information out in response to public outreach; fields potential new client inquiries and schedules attorney meetings and consultations.

Bilingual in English and Spanish, Sofia is committed to enhancing accessibility and providing exceptional client care for our Spanish-speaking clients.
EXTERNAL/OFFICE/DIRECT: (305) 256-9575

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Consultation Today

We care. We listen. We can help.
No matter what you need assistance with, don’t wait - schedule a consultation today to discuss a plan for your future.
(305) 931-0478
Jason Neufeld is the author of the

Florida Medicaid
Planning Book

How to Get Medicaid to Pay for Some or All of Your Long-Term Care Expenses:Without having to wait 5 years | without having to sell your house | without have to go broke first! (a Florida Medicaid Lawyer's Guide For Non-Lawyers)

TESTIMONIALS

What People Say About Us

"Jason and his team are responsive and communicate very well. Jason helped me to get the benefits that I qualified for much faster than expected. I would recommend him highly. My case seemed complicated to me, but Jason explained everything in detail and made everything go quite smoothly. I interviewed several elderlaw attorneys prior to choosing Jason Neufeld."

"Quick turn around time for appointments, great response time, very thorough, never rushed through and soooo easy to do business with over the internet! Read the website info, very very helpful!"

“The attorney Jason and his team are amazing at planning and execution. Me and my family would not trust anyone else with our estate planning needs.”

“I've been very impressed! A friend referred me and I've experienced nothing but perfect service and professionalism. I am extremely grateful!”

“A strong recommendation for Jason Neufeld and his Elder Law firm - very professional, patient, reliable, and experienced. When my father fell terminally ill, I became responsible for his assets and finances overnight, including the daunting task to qualify him for Medicaid. I interviewed several elder law firms but was most impressed by Jason’s client approach and practices. Throughout the process, Jason and his team provided clear guidance and support to successfully complete all the new and complex tasks required as a POA, and more importantly he enabled us to quickly achieve our goals related to Medicaid and estate planning. His fees are more than reasonable for the level of due diligence and support we received.”

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AREAS OF ELDER LAW

We Can Help You

Medicaid eligibility assessment

  • Understanding income and asset limits for Medicaid
  • Navigating state-specific Medicaid requirements
  • Assessing countable and exempt assets
  • Determining eligibility for specific Medicaid programs

Medicaid preservation strategies

  • Utilizing trusts for Medicaid planning
  • Converting countable assets to exempt assets
  • Gifting assets within Medicaid guidelines
  • Planning for the Medicaid look-back period

Income and resource planning

  • Income trusts and Qualified Income Trusts (QITs)
  • Strategies for reducing countable income
  • Understanding the treatment of resources in Medicaid planning
  • Spousal impoverishment protection and asset transfers

Medicaid trusts

  • Establishing irrevocable Medicaid trusts
  • Choosing appropriate assets to fund the trust
  • Selecting trustees and understanding their duties
  • Monitoring the trust and adhering to Medicaid regulations

Medicaid spend-down planning

  • Identifying allowable spend-down expenses
  • Prepaying funeral and burial expenses
  • Using excess income for medical expenses
  • Navigating spend-down rules and avoiding penalties

Wills and trusts

  • Drafting and updating wills
  • Establishing revocable and irrevocable trusts
  • Testamentary trusts and special needs trusts
  • Trust administration and management

Beneficiary designations

  • Naming beneficiaries for life insurance policies
  • Designating retirement account beneficiaries
  • Updating beneficiary information after life events
  • Contingent beneficiaries and per stirpes designations

Power of attorney

  • Durable power of attorney for financial matters
  • Limited or special power of attorney
  • Springing power of attorney
  • Choosing the right agent and understanding their responsibilities

Advanced healthcare directives

  • Living wills and end-of-life care preferences
  • Healthcare power of attorney
  • Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders
  • Organ donation and anatomical gifts

Tax planning and strategies

  • Estate and gift tax exemptions
  • Generation-skipping transfer tax planning
  • Charitable giving and tax deductions
  • Strategies for minimizing tax liability and maximizing wealth transfer

Probate process and court proceedings

  • Understanding the probate process timeline
  • Navigating probate court requirements and procedures
  • Simplified probate procedures for small estates
  • Avoiding probate through estate planning tools

Executor responsibilities and duties

  • Appointment and qualifications of an executor
  • Estate inventory and asset identification
  • Managing estate debts and expenses
  • Executor compensation and potential liabilities

Creditor claims and estate debts

  • Notification of creditors and publication requirements
  • Reviewing and prioritizing creditor claims
  • Settling valid claims and disputing invalid claims
  • Handling insolvent estates and priority of payments

Estate and inheritance taxes

  • Filing estate tax returns and paying taxes owed
  • Understanding state-specific inheritance tax laws
  • Tax deductions and exemptions for estates
  • Strategies for minimizing tax liability

Distribution of assets to beneficiaries

  • Interpreting will provisions and trust agreements
  • Resolving disputes among beneficiaries
  • Managing assets during the probate process
  • Final accounting and closing the estate

Special needs trusts

  • Establishing first-party special needs trusts
  • Setting up third-party special needs trusts
  • Pooled special needs trusts
  • Trust administration and management

Government benefits eligibility

  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) planning
  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) planning
  • Medicaid benefits for special needs individuals
  • Understanding eligibility criteria and application processes

Guardianship and alternatives

  • Legal guardianship for special needs adults
  • Supported decision-making agreements
  • Power of attorney and healthcare directives
  • Conservatorship for financial management

Education and transition planning

  • Individualized Education Program (IEP) planning and advocacy
  • Section 504 plans for accommodations in schools
  • Transitioning from school to adulthood: Vocational and life skills training
  • Post-secondary education options and financial assistance

Housing and residential support

  • Accessible and inclusive housing options
  • Group home and assisted living considerations
  • Home modifications for safety and independence
  • Community resources and support networks

Long-term care insurance

  • Evaluating the need for long-term care insurance
  • Understanding policy options and coverage levels
  • Comparing insurance providers and premiums
  • Incorporating long-term care insurance into your estate plan

Government benefits for long-term care

  • Medicare coverage for skilled nursing and home health care
  • Medicaid planning and eligibility for long-term care services
  • Veterans' benefits for long-term care, including Aid and Attendance
  • Navigating application processes and maximizing benefits

Housing options and care settings

  • In-home care services and considerations
  • Assisted living facilities: Services, costs, and selection criteria
  • Nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities: What to expect
  • Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) and their unique features

Legal documents and advance directives

  • Durable power of attorney for health care and financial matters
  • Living wills and end-of-life care preferences
  • HIPAA authorizations for access to medical information
  • Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders and Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST)

Family caregiving and support

  • Assessing the role of family caregivers in long-term care planning
  • Balancing caregiving responsibilities with personal and professional commitments
  • Navigating the emotional challenges of long-term care decisions
  • Accessing resources and support networks for caregivers

Initiating the estate administration process

  • Probate court proceedings and documentation
  • Appointment of the executor or personal representative
  • Obtaining letters testamentary or letters of administration
  • Notifying beneficiaries and relevant parties

Estate inventory and asset management

  • Identifying, locating, and valuing estate assets
  • Safeguarding and managing assets during administration
  • Addressing jointly-owned assets and beneficiary designations
  • Liquidating assets, if necessary, to cover estate expenses

Handling debts, taxes, and expenses

  • Notifying creditors and processing claims against the estate
  • Settling valid debts and disputing invalid claims
  • Preparing and filing estate tax returns
  • Paying administrative expenses and executor compensation

Distribution of assets to beneficiaries

  • Interpreting will provisions and trust agreements
  • Resolving disputes among beneficiaries
  • Transferring assets and distributing bequests
  • Preparing and providing accounting to beneficiaries

Closing the estate

  • Ensuring all debts, taxes, and expenses have been paid
  • Filing final accounting with the probate court
  • Obtaining court approval for estate distributions
  • Releasing executor from their duties and discharging the estate

Guardianship for minor children

  • Naming a guardian in your will
  • Factors to consider when choosing a guardian
  • Guardianship nomination process and court approval
  • Responsibilities of the guardian toward minor children

Guardianship for special needs individuals

  • Assessing the need for guardianship in estate planning
  • Establishing a guardianship as part of a special needs trust
  • Coordinating guardianship with government benefits and support services
  • Balancing independence and protection for special needs beneficiaries

Guardianship and conservatorship for incapacitated adults

  • Determining the need for a guardian or conservator
  • Petitioning the court for appointment of a guardian or conservator
  • Understanding the rights and responsibilities of a guardian or conservator
  • Monitoring the well-being and financial management of the protected person

Alternatives to guardianship in estate planning

  • Durable power of attorney for financial matters
  • Healthcare power of attorney and advanced healthcare directives
  • Supported decision-making agreements
  • Joint bank accounts and other financial management tools

Ending or modifying a guardianship

  • Periodic review and reporting to the court
  • Petitioning the court for termination or modification of guardianship
  • Successor guardians and temporary guardians
  • Guardianship disputes and resolution
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