Did Attorneys Commit Malpractice in Medicaid Trust Case?

Question from Momo, Did Attorneys Commit Malpractice in Medicaid Trust Case?

Answer from AI:

When an individual hires an attorney to assist with Medicaid planning, they are seeking expertise in navigating complex regulations to protect their assets while maintaining eligibility for Medicaid. A key component of Medicaid planning often involves establishing trusts that comply with Medicaid rules. If an attorney fails to inform a client about critical aspects of Medicaid eligibility, such as the five-year look-back period for asset transfers, this could potentially be considered a failure to perform due diligence.

Understanding Legal Malpractice

Legal malpractice occurs when an attorney fails to provide services to a client with the skill, prudence, and diligence that a reasonable and competent attorney would under similar circumstances. To prove legal malpractice, typically the following elements must be established:

1. The attorney owed the client a duty to act properly.
2. The attorney breached that duty by acting negligently or making a mistake.
3. The breach of duty caused harm to the client.
4. The client suffered a financial loss as a result of the harm.

Medicaid Compliant Irrevocable Trusts and the Five-Year Look-Back

Medicaid Compliant Irrevocable Trusts are designed to help individuals qualify for Medicaid by removing assets from their countable resources. However, Medicaid has a five-year look-back period, which means that any assets transferred for less than fair market value within five years before applying for Medicaid can result in a penalty period during which the individual is ineligible for Medicaid benefits.

Assessing Attorney Performance

In the scenario described, if none of the attorneys informed the client about the five-year transfer penalty, and this omission directly resulted in the client’s ineligibility for Medicaid, it could be argued that the attorneys did not perform their due diligence. The attorneys’ failure to disclose such a critical piece of information could be seen as a breach of their duty to provide competent legal advice.

Seeking Recourse

If a client believes they have been the victim of legal malpractice, they may have the right to seek recourse, which could include:

• Filing a legal malpractice lawsuit against the attorney(s).
• Requesting a return of fees paid for services that were not performed adequately.
• Filing a complaint with the state bar association.

It is important to note that each case is unique, and proving legal malpractice can be complex. The specific facts and circumstances of the case, as well as state laws and regulations, will significantly impact the outcome.

Consulting with a Legal Professional

Individuals who believe they have experienced legal malpractice should consult with a legal professional who specializes in professional malpractice law. An experienced attorney can help assess the merits of the case and advise on the best course of action.

For more information on Medicaid planning and the five-year look-back period, you can visit the official Medicaid website.

Please note that this information is not legal advice, and individuals should consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.