Free legal clinics can be a lifeline for seniors. Seniors deal with complicated issues on a daily basis concerning home ownership, wills, inheritances, credit card debt, health care decisions, visiting grandchildren, even eviction. Many seniors can not afford an attorney and many do not know where to turn for help. At a time when they should be enjoying retirement, many seniors live in fear of debt collectors or worry that their loved ones will not be provided for. Many need answers to troubling questions about their own future health care needs. Free help is available. On Saturday, October 24, Broome County seniors, age 60 and over, can receive free private legal advice with an attorney experienced in an area of law that concerns them.  

• Bonnie is 79 years old, widowed with 3 children and lives in a home that is still in joint names with her deceased husband. She wants to do a will and needs to know how to leave her home to her 3 children. While her health is good now, Bonnie also wonders if she needs a Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney.

• Fred lives on his Social Security check; when his wife was alive, they used their credit cards to help pay for her medical expenses, their grandchildren’s education and some household necessities. Fred can no longer make payments on the credit card debt and now receives threatening phone calls from bill collectors almost every day. Fred is afraid to answer the phone and wonders if he should file for bankruptcy.

• William has a 26-year-old disabled son and is the representative payee for his son’s SSI. He needs a will and advice about future care of his son.

• Joan and Robert, both 65, own a home that has appreciated in value over the years. They are considering a home equity loan, but worry about depleting a major asset should either of them require long-term care.