May is Elder Law Month, which seeks to increase awareness of a relatively new area of legal practice. Elder law came into being in the last 20 to 30 years to help senior citizens, and more recently, people with special needs, regardless of age. Elder law attorney Lauren Wasson says the specialty often helps older people navigate the hurdles to qualify for Medicaid or VA benefits, but it also frequently involves services to seniors and their families such as wills, powers of attorney and guardianship/conservatorship. Her colleague, Andy Atkins, also warns of the biggest legal problem facing seniors today – not planning in advance, which could place a huge burden on a person’s family should an accident occur, or a medical or other crisis arise.