Skilled Lawyer and Mediator in Scottsboro, Alabama
Estate and Gift Tax Planning ◊ Medicaid Planning ◊ Probate ◊ Social Security Disability
At the law office of Melanie B. Bradford, LLC, I dedicate my full efforts and attention to meeting the needs of my clients. I understand that hiring an attorney is an exercise in trust and am committed to earning that trust. I recognize that unresolved legal matters can cause a high level of stress and anxiety. I work hard to be accessible and available, so that I can be there when you need questions answered.
To schedule a confidential consultation, contact me by e-mail or call me at 256-293-4092, toll free at 888-736-1592.
My Practice
I offer comprehensive counsel on matters involving:
- Estate planning and gift tax planning: I will help you establish and implement a plan for the orderly distribution of assets, and will prepare all the documents required to put your estate plan in place, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney and advance medical directives. I will also help you with lifetime gifting and gift tax planning.
- Medicaid planning: I work with clients seeking to protect their personal assets. I explain the Medicaid process and requirements. I recommend long-term plans for asset protection and retention. In some situations, a long-term plan is no longer possible and I work with clients to navigate the remaining options for asset protection when entry into the nursing home is imminent. I also work with the spouse that is remaining at home so that he or she understands the process and is able to keep all assets legally possible.
Completing a Medicaid application can be a daunting task at a time when families are emotionally drained, confused and upset. I assist clients in preparing the Medicaid application, in gathering the necessary documents to accompany the application and in responding to any inquiries by Medicaid. I also will appeal a Medicaid decision.
- Probate and estate administration: I assist clients through all aspects of the probate process from beginning to end, including: probating simple estates, complex estates, and insolvent estates; probating with or without a will; will contests; disputes with personal representatives over misuse of estate resources; conservatorships, guardianships, and commitment proceedings.
- Social Security disability claims: If you are unable to work because of an injury or because of long-term illness, you may be entitled to benefits under the Social Security program. I will help you file for benefits and can handle appeals from denials of claims.
Contact Attorney Melanie B. Bradford
For a private meeting, contact me or call my office at 256-293-4092 to set up an appointment. Office hours are 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Evening and weekend consultations are available upon request. I will come to your home, the nursing home or your assisted living facility, if necessary. My office is in the Word Arcade building.