Special Needs Planning

Plan with purpose. Protect what matters most.

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Plan Ahead With Confidence: Why Special Needs Planning Is Critical

If you have a child or loved one with a disability, traditional estate planning may not go far enough. A poorly structured inheritance could disqualify them from vital government benefits—or lead to confusion and unnecessary court involvement.


At Wade Law Offices, we help families create thoughtful, legally sound special needs plans that provide lasting protection and financial security—without jeopardizing eligibility for programs like SSI or Medicaid.


With the right plan, you can:

  • Preserve eligibility for public benefits
  • Ensure lifetime financial support
  • Name trusted decision-makers and caregivers
  • Avoid conservatorships or guardianship battles
  • Bring peace of mind to your family’s future

How We Can Help

Our attorneys build custom plans designed to serve your family’s needs now and long into the future.

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Special Needs Trusts

We help you create a first-party or third-party trust that provides long-term support while preserving benefit eligibility.

Government Benefits Coordination

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We structure your plan to work with Medicaid, SSI, and other programs—ensuring your loved one doesn’t lose what they rely on.

Trustee Selection Guidance

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Choosing the right trustee is critical. We help you evaluate your options and legally empower them.

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Letters of Intent & Planning Documents

We assist with non-legal tools to guide caregivers and support teams with clear instructions and family insights.

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Integration with Family Estate Plans

We coordinate your overall plan so other family gifts or inheritances don’t accidentally cause harm.

Why Clients Choose Wade Law Offices

Caring. Precise. Experienced. Family-Focused.


  • We treat your family’s goals with the care and respect they deserve
  • We understand how emotional and complex special needs planning can be
  • We ensure your trust is tailored, enforceable, and built to last
  • Our team guides you through every decision—from legal to practical


Let’s help you protect what your loved one depends on—now and always.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a special needs trust?

    It’s a legal tool that holds and manages assets for a person with a disability—without disqualifying them from government benefits.

  • Can family members contribute to the trust?

    Yes. Parents, grandparents, or others can fund a trust through gifts, inheritance, or life insurance.

  • What’s the difference between first-party and third-party trusts?

    First-party trusts use the beneficiary’s own assets (often required by law). Third-party trusts are funded by others and offer more flexibility.

  • Who should be the trustee?

    Someone trustworthy, detail-oriented, and ideally familiar with public benefits. We can also discuss using professional trustees.

  • When should I set one up?

    As soon as possible. Planning early helps ensure a smooth transition of care and support when it’s needed most.

  • Can I update the plan later?

    Yes. Life changes—and we make sure your plan can adapt over time.

We’re Ready to Help

Connect with an estate planning attorney in California or Washington today—reach us by phone, email, or our secure online form to get started. Wade Law Offices is here to help you build a secure, compassionate future for your loved one with special needs.