Special Needs Planning Atlanta, GA
Comprehensive Planning for Families
At Brightside, we’re proud to support individuals with special needs, their families, and trusted caregivers. Special Needs Planning is a crucial aspect of ensuring the long-term care, financial security, and overall well-being of individuals with disabilities. Our goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate legal services tailored to meet the specific needs of each family.





Our Special Needs Planning Services Include
1. Special Needs Trusts
- Establishing both first-party and third-party special needs trusts to protect eligibility for government benefits while providing financial security.
- Customizing trusts to meet the unique needs of the beneficiary, ensuring their quality of life is maintained.
2. Guardianship and Conservatorship
- Assisting families in establishing guardianships and conservatorships to protect the interests of individuals who cannot make decisions independently.
- Providing guidance on the legal responsibilities and duties of guardians and conservators.
3. Government Benefits Planning
- Navigating the complexities of Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and other government programs.
- Ensuring that individuals with special needs maintain eligibility for essential benefits.
4. Estate Planning
- Creating comprehensive estate plans that include provisions for the care of loved ones with special needs.
- Utilizing wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to protect the financial future of individuals with disabilities.
5. Advocacy and Legal Representation
- Representing families in disputes and legal matters related to special needs.
- Advocating for the rights and interests of individuals with disabilities in various legal settings.
Expertise You Can Trust
Our firm is proud to have Ruthann P. Lacey, a nationally recognized expert in special needs planning, as part of our team. With over thirty years of experience, Ruthann brings unparalleled expertise and dedication to her work. She has been instrumental in drafting legislation and has been quoted in esteemed publications like The Wall Street Journal and the American Bar Association Journal. Her extensive knowledge and compassionate approach ensure that our clients receive the highest quality of legal counsel.
The Importance of Special Needs Planning
Special needs planning is essential for families who want to ensure the long-term well-being and financial security of their loved ones with disabilities. Proper disability planning can make a significant difference in maintaining a high quality of life and access to necessary resources.
Why Work With a Special Needs Planning Attorney?
Maintaining Benefit Eligibility
- Special needs trusts can protect assets while ensuring continued eligibility for government benefits such as Medicaid and SSI.
- Proper planning prevents the loss of essential benefits that provide critical support.
Financial Security
- A well-structured special needs trust provides financial resources for the beneficiary without jeopardizing their benefits.
- Families can ensure that their loved ones have the financial support they need throughout their lives.
Quality of Life
- Special needs planning allows families to set aside funds for additional care, services, and activities that enhance the beneficiary’s quality of life.
- Customized plans address the unique needs and preferences of the individual with disabilities.
Peace of Mind
- Knowing that there is a plan in place for the future care and financial security of a loved one provides peace of mind for families.
- Legal safeguards ensure that the individual’s best interests are protected even after the caregivers are no longer able to provide support.

How Our Special Needs Planning Attorneys Can Help
At Brightside Estate and Elder Law, our special needs planning lawyers are dedicated to providing personalized and effective special needs planning services. We understand the complexities involved and are committed to helping families navigate the legal landscape with confidence.
Ruthann P. Lacey
- A Certified Elder Law Attorney with extensive experience in special needs planning.
- Nationally recognized for her contributions to the field and her dedication to advocacy and education.
Trace Brooks
- An experienced Atlanta estate planning attorney committed to providing comprehensive legal services.
- Works closely with families to develop tailored plans that address their unique needs and goals.
Together, Ruthann and Trace offer a collaborative approach to special needs planning, ensuring that every aspect of your loved one’s care and financial security is addressed.
Contact Us Today
For families in Atlanta and beyond, Brightside Estate and Elder Law is here to provide the expertise and support needed for effective special needs planning.
Contact us at (404) 492-9559 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your loved one’s future with professional legal guidance.