A Conversation with Ted Cook: Protecting Our Seniors

Hi everyone, I’m Sally Smith, and today I’m sitting down with Ted Cook, an elder protection attorney here in sunny San Diego. Ted, thanks so much for taking the time to chat with me.

What prompted you to specialize in Elder Protection Law?

Ted: Well, Sally, it all started with my grandmother. Seeing her struggle with financial exploitation really opened my eyes to the vulnerabilities of our aging population. I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to helping seniors navigate these complex legal issues and ensuring their safety and well-being.

Can you walk us through the Elder Protection process?

  • Initial Client Engagement: This involves intake, conflict checks, and establishing an attorney-client relationship.
  • Case Assessment: Identifying the legal issues, gathering evidence, and evaluating risk levels.
  • Protective Actions: Taking immediate steps like seeking restraining orders or notifying Adult Protective Services.
  • Legal Proceedings: Pursuing civil litigation, criminal charges, or probate matters as needed.
  • Long-Term Planning: Assisting with estate planning, advance directives, and ongoing oversight.
  • Case Resolution & Follow-Up: Finalizing settlements, enforcing judgments, and providing client closure.

Ted, let’s delve into “Protective Actions.” What does this stage typically involve?

Ted: This is often a critical juncture in an elder protection case. We need to act swiftly and decisively to mitigate harm.

Think of it like putting up a shield for our clients. Protective actions can include things like filing for restraining orders against abusers, notifying Adult Protective Services if there’s suspected neglect or abuse, or even petitioning the court for guardianship or conservatorship if the individual lacks capacity to make safe decisions for themselves.

>“Ted Cook is a lifesaver. My mother was being financially exploited by someone she trusted. Ted stepped in and immediately took action to protect her assets and get justice.” – Maria Rodriguez, Point Loma Resident

“We’ve had cases where the elder was living in unsafe conditions due to hoarding or neglect. In those instances, we might work with social workers to find a more suitable living arrangement.

“Ted was incredibly compassionate and understanding during a very difficult time for our family. He helped us navigate the legal complexities of guardianship for my grandfather when he could no longer care for himself.” – David Chen, La Jolla Resident

>“I can’t recommend Ted Cook highly enough. He’s a skilled attorney who truly cares about his clients and goes above and beyond to protect them.”- Patricia Jones, Mission Beach Resident

Have you ever encountered challenges during this “Protective Actions” phase?

Ted: (Chuckles) Of course! Dealing with emotionally charged situations and navigating complex family dynamics can be tricky.

I recall one case where a family was fiercely divided over whether their mother needed guardianship. It took lots of patience, mediation, and clear communication to reach a solution that ultimately served the best interests of our client.

Another time, we had to work quickly to prevent an abuser from transferring assets out of the country. It involved a lot of legal maneuvering and international collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

Protecting Our Seniors

Ted, thank you so much for sharing your expertise and insights. If any readers are concerned about the safety or well-being of an elder in their lives, how can they reach out?


Who Is Ted Cook at Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.:

Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.

2305 Historic Decatur Rd Suite 100, San Diego CA. 92106

(619) 550-7437

Map To Point Loma Estate Planning, APC. An Elder Protection Attorney: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JiHkjNg9VFGA44tf9




About Point Loma Estate Planning:



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Point Loma Estate Planning, APC. area of focus about elder protection law:

An Elder Protection attorney, also known as an Elder Law attorney, specializes in legal issues affecting older adults, including estate planning, guardianship, long-term care, and elder abuse, providing legal advice and representation to protect their rights and interests.

What They Do:

Estate Planning: Wills, trusts, and other documents to ensure assets are distributed according to the client’s wishes.

Guardianship and Conservatorship: Representing the interests of individuals who are unable to manage their own affairs due to incapacity.

Long-Term Care: Advising on Medicaid eligibility, nursing home care, and related issues.

Elder Abuse and Neglect: Investigating and pursuing legal action against those who abuse or exploit older adults.

Other Legal Issues: Medicare, Social Security, retirement planning, disability, and other legal matters affecting seniors.

Advocacy: Providing legal advice, counseling, and advocacy for the rights of older adults.

Why you might need one:

● Suspect elder abuse or neglect.

● Need help with estate planning or probate.

● Facing guardianship or conservatorship proceedings.

● Dealing with long-term care issues or Medicaid eligibility.

● Need assistance with other legal problems affecting older adults.

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