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Tully Law Group, PC, a prominent name in Estate Planning & Elder Care legal services on Long Island is thrilled to announce the successful acquisition of Soundview Law Group, P.C. of Northport, a client centered law firm focused on modernizing the estate planning experience for young families with minor children in addition to planning for high net worth individuals and families. This strategic union marks a significant milestone for both organizations, as they combine forces to offer a comprehensive and rounded approach to legal services for Long Islanders at all stages of life, and beyond.
The acquisition brings together the respective strengths of Tully Law Group, PC and Soundview Law Group, P.C. creating a legal powerhouse capable of addressing the diverse needs of multi generational clients. Tully Law Group's well-established expertise in Elder Care as Long Island's only Life Care Planning Law Firm, seamlessly aligns with Soundview Law Group's proficiency in estate planning for young families with minor children, resulting in an expanded suite of services that cater to individuals and families at every phase of life.
The collaboration is rooted in the shared commitment of both firms to provide exceptional legal counsel and personalized solutions with relationship focused service in addition to document preparation. Clients of the newly merged entity can expect a comprehensive approach to legal services, addressing not only the unique challenges of aging and elder care, but also the critical aspects of estate planning for younger families with minor children.
"We are excited to welcome Tony Farina and Soundview Law Group into the Tully Law Group family. This acquisition reflects our dedication to delivering top-notch legal services that cater to the evolving needs of our clients," said Brian A. Tully, Founder and Managing Partner at Tully Law Group, PC. "By combining our strengths, we are better positioned to provide a comprehensive range of services, ensuring that our clients receive the highest level of care and attention at every stage of their lives."
The merger comes at a time when legal services are increasingly sought after in the areas of estate planning and elder care. The collaboration between Tully Law Group, PC and Soundview Law Group, P.C. will enable the firms to leverage their collective experience and knowledge, providing clients with a one-stop solution for all their legal planning needs.
We are incredibly proud to share that Brian A. Tully, Managing Partner and Founder, has been named Long Island Business Influencer in Law by Long Island Business News for 2024. This list curates "perfectionists in their craft", lawyers who provide an elevated level of service to their clients, and who also give back to their communities on both a personal and professional level. Additionally, this years list of influential attorneys also dedicate time to teaching others. Brian is grateful to be recognized and looks forward to continuing to be of service to the Long Island community.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the invaluable contributions of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support individuals and families in need. March is not only a time for the arrival of spring but also a moment to honor and appreciate the often unsung heroes of our communities: social workers. These dedicated professionals play a pivotal role in addressing the diverse needs of individuals across various stages of life, from children and families to the elderly.
Social workers are the backbone of our society, offering a wide range of services aimed at enhancing the well-being and quality of life for vulnerable populations. They serve as advocates, counselors, and navigators, helping individuals navigate through life's challenges with compassion, empathy, and expertise. From providing counseling and crisis intervention to connecting clients with vital resources and support networks, social workers truly make a difference in the lives of those they serve.
At Tully Law Group, we recognize the profound impact that social workers have on the lives of our clients, particularly in the realm of elder care. That's why we're proud to have not just one, but two exceptional social workers, Shanthy and Deanna, on our staff as Elder Care Coordinators. These remarkable individuals go above and beyond to assist and guide families through the often complex and emotionally charged process of elder care planning.
Shanthy and Deanna embody the ethos of compassionate care and support, holding the hands of our clients and their caregivers every step of the way. Their wealth of experience and expertise enables them to navigate the intricate landscape of elder care with grace and proficiency, alleviating the stress and uncertainty that often accompanies such transitions.
One of the unique aspects of our firm is the inclusion of social workers as integral members of our team. While many law offices may focus solely on legal matters, we understand that elder care encompasses far more than just legal considerations. By offering the expertise of Shanthy and Deanna, we provide a comprehensive approach to elder care planning that addresses the holistic needs of our clients and their families.
Whether it's coordinating care services, advocating on behalf of clients, or providing much-needed emotional support, Shanthy and Deanna are steadfast allies in the journey toward elder care planning. Their dedication and commitment exemplify the profound impact that social workers have on the lives of individuals and families facing the challenges of aging.
As we celebrate Social Worker Appreciation Month this March, let us take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the social workers who dedicate their lives to making our communities stronger, healthier, and more resilient. Your tireless efforts and unwavering compassion inspire us all, and we are incredibly fortunate to have you as our guiding lights in times of need. Thank you for all that you do.
For Deanna Rubino, LMSW, LNHA, DCC, her two-and-a-half-year career at Tully Law Group has been the culmination of years of dedication following her decision to persue something new in life.
While she was an undergraduate at the Stony Brook School of Social Welfare, Rubino was an intern at a nursing home that later hired her as a staff social worker following her graduation. She was soon promoted to Director before returning to education, this time at Fordham University, to get her Master’s degree in Social Work. She was once again promoted within the nursing home and endeavored to further her education by pursuing a license in Nursing Home Administration.
When COVID-19 hit, Rubino’s role had to change to accommodate the new requirements of the nursing home; she began to do more patient-facing work and operated as a problem solver and an outlet for patients who could no longer freely see their families for health and safety purposes. This was when she realized that being there for people and helping them in their time of need was her calling. She soon made the decision to leave the nursing home and set out to find a new job. After a short stint at an assisted-living facility, Rubino was on the job hunt again. This was when she saw a job listing for a social worker at a mid-size Elder Care law firm and sent an email to Brian Tully, our Founder and Managing Partner.
Today, Rubino is a member of our esteemed Elder Care Coordinators team and spends her days dedicating herself and her time to our clients, lending a willing ear and the wisdom she has garnered after a 30-year career in health care. She lets our clients do their most important job – caring for themselves or a loved one – and leaves the technical things to her more-than-capable hands.
Rubino is a member of many associations, including Case Managers of Long Island, where she comes together with other members of the field to learn about new advancements in the industry so she can vet and bring them as a referral to clients.
“What I look for in a company I’m going to refer to a client is their customer service,” Rubino said. “It’s so important because our clients are entrusting us with the life and safety of their loved one.”
Outside of the office, Rubino loves to spend time with her husband, her stepchildren, and her dog Pawly in addition to working on DIY projects around her home. She said she is focusing on being content with her life and intends to enjoy it whenever she can.
Shanthy Hughes, LMSW, was thrust into the world of social work from a young age. Her mother, 96 years old today, is a retired social worker. Hughes grew up in a residential treatment center with her parents who worked there. This center was adjacent to the foster care system and was a group home for many boys. The importance of these values, as Hughes called them, are what drew her to become a social worker herself later in life.
Even though she has only been a part of the Tully team since September 2023, Hughes has been cultivating her experience and wisdom in not only the social work field but in the caregiving field as well. After earning her Master’s degree in social work in 1995, Hughes entered the workforce on Long Island. She worked for four long-term care facilities and then for nursing homes; through all of this experience, she has learned the ins and outs of in-patient care. Since coming to Tully, Hughes has been expanding her skill set about in-home patient care. She provides support and assists our clients however they need on a day-to-day basis, especially by guiding them through the Medicare/Medicaid home care processes.
Hughes said she looks forward to sharing her knowledge on mental health and its importance in the elder care field through a new project. After taking multiple classes with the University of Pennsylvania in positive psychology in 2020, she applied her newfound knowledge to her job at the time by creating presentations to raise awareness about the importance of supporting professionals through the hard times of COVID-19. She hopes to share these presentations with some of Tully’s professional referral sources in the future.
Hughes spends her free time volunteering as an intake specialist for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, providing her unique understanding of this process and organization
that she’s gained from personal experience. She also enjoys staying physically active and spending time with her family.
As St. Patrick's Day approaches, the concept of luck is at the forefront of our minds. However, when it comes to safeguarding your loved ones and assets, relying solely on luck is not a prudent strategy. Just over four years ago, the world was caught off guard by the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the need to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.
At Tully Law Group, we recognize the critical importance of planning for the future, particularly in the event of medical crises, incapacitation, or untimely death. While it's tempting to hope for the best and assume that nothing will go wrong, life's unpredictability demands a proactive approach.
The COVID-19 pandemic serves as a poignant reminder of why estate planning is indispensable. Many individuals who fell ill with the virus were suddenly confronted with difficult decisions regarding their medical care and finances. Those lacking a plan found their loved ones grappling with uncertainty and legal complexities during an already challenging time.
Conversely, individuals with comprehensive estate plans were better equipped to navigate such challenges. Their wishes were clearly outlined in documents such as living wills and healthcare proxies, ensuring their medical preferences were honored even if they were unable to communicate them. Additionally, named short-term and long-term guardians provided peace of mind for parents of minor children, knowing their children's well-being would be protected in their absence. Moreover, powers of attorney empowered trusted individuals to make financial and legal decisions on their behalf if they became incapacitated.
At Tully Law Group, we specialize in crafting personalized estate plans that address each client's unique circumstances. Whether you're just beginning to consider estate planning or need to update an existing plan, our experienced team is committed to guiding you through the process with care and expertise.
This St. Patrick's Day, don't leave your family's future to chance. Instead of relying on luck, take proactive steps to protect what matters most. Ensure you have essential documents in place, including a living will, healthcare proxy, named guardians for minors, and a power of attorney. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
As the calendar flips to December, the holiday season officially kicks off, bringing with it the joy of gathering with loved ones. While the holidays are a time for celebration, we must be mindful of the potential changes in our older loved ones' well-being. Paying attention to their evolving needs can help ensure a happy and healthy holiday season. Here are five tips to consider when spending time with older family members during this time of year:
First and foremost, observe your older loved ones with care and respect. Note any signs of difficulty with thinking skills, vision, or physical activity. Have they experienced significant weight loss or seem frail? Can they still groom and dress appropriately, or do they need assistance? Are there signs of increased hearing loss, or do they struggle with incontinence? Recognizing these changes is crucial for providing the support they may need.
Safety is paramount for older individuals, particularly in their own homes. Pay attention to possible trip hazards like wires and cords crossing walkways, clutter piling up, or loose carpeting and railings. Ensure that hallways and stairs are well-lit to prevent accidents. A quick inspection of appliances can reveal any potential dangers. Add essential safety features, such as grab bars and non-skid mats in the shower, to make daily activities more manageable.
Mobility significantly affects an older person's overall well-being and independence. Observe how they walk, any changes in their gait, or difficulties going up and down stairs. If they experience pain during movement, addressing these issues promptly is essential. Consider scheduling a doctor's appointment to explore physical therapy or pain management options.
Age-related memory changes are normal, but other cognitive shifts may signal a need for concern. Watch for signs of difficulty following a conversation, confusion, or a marked change in behavior, such as becoming unusually quiet or sad during the holidays. Are they still engaging in activities they once enjoyed, like talking to friends or maintaining basic home upkeep and personal hygiene? These observations can provide insight into their mental health.
If you suspect your loved one needs additional support, it's essential to act. Find a suitable time for a meaningful conversation about current circumstances and both of your concerns. Suggest scheduling an appointment with their primary care physician for a comprehensive health assessment. If discussions about aging, plans, estate planning, and long-term care have yet to occur, consider consulting with an experienced Elder Care Law Attorney. They can guide you in ensuring your loved one receives the best care while protecting their assets.
The holiday season is a perfect opportunity to show love and support for your older family members. By taking these steps, you can help ensure their well-being and make cherished memories together while also planning for their future needs.
Tully Law Group is a distinguished elder care and estate planning law firm with offices in Melville and Riverhead, NY. Our specialized team of Elder Care Coordinators, alongside our comprehensive elder care and estate planning attorneys, paralegals and other professionals, play a pivotal role in assisting seniors and their families with a broad spectrum of needs, encompassing estate planning, Medicaid planning, asset protection, and, notably, expert care coordination. With a dedicated focus on excellence and a compassionate approach, Tully Law Group has been the trusted destination for elder care and estate planning support for over two decades.
At Tully Law Group, our Elder Care Coordinators are dedicated to enhancing the lives of the seniors within our community. An Elder Care Coordinator (ECC) is a professional, such as a social worker, counselor, nurse, or gerontologist, who assists older people and their families to attain the highest quality of life given their circumstances. This past week, our ECC team visited a series of senior care facilities on Long Island. The goal? To establish lasting relationships and share our services. Please have a look at some of the places we had the opportunity to visit:
Raina DeDilectis, BSN, RN first visited Atria Hertlin Place in Ronkonkoma. Atria Hertlin Place, a welcoming independent living community, is nestled in the beautiful hamlet of Lake Ronkonkoma and set on 14 acres between Smithtown and Stony Brook. Here, Raina met with some staff and shared about Tully Law Group's services.
Raina also visited with the team at the Massapequa Center Rehabilitation & Nursing, a premier facility on Long Island. A family-owned and operated center, they pride themselves on caring for individuals with a custom-tailored plan of care with flexibility to address their specific variety of needs. Raina enjoyed speaking with the team about future collaborations.
Our next ECC, Shanthy Hughes, LMSW, visited Our Lady of Consolation Nursing & Rehabilitative Care Center. With 100 years of dedicated service, this facility is set in West Islip, overlooking the Great South Bay. While here, Shanthy met with Michelle in Case Management and Ginny from the Medicaid office.
Together, Raina and Shanthy traveled to the Oyster Bay Manor Assisted Living. This family-owned and operated facility is in the heart of historic Oyster Bay on the scenic Gold Coast of Long Island. Oyster Bay Manor provides a community living experience that is comfortable and relaxed. Our ECCs met with Stephanie DePalma, Lauren-Marie Balletta, LMSW, and other Oyster Bay Manor team members here.
Raina DeDilectis, BSN, RN & Shanthy Hughes, LMSW at Oyster Bay Manor Assisted Living
Our third and final ECC, Michelle Morea, ECC, visited three facilities this last week. First, she traveled to Gurwin Jewish - Fay J. Lindner Residences in Commack. At Gurwin Jewish, residents can enjoy new monthly activities to engage, entertain, and educate. Michelle chatted with the Gurwin team about the unique services Tully Law Group offers.
Then, Michelle went to the Amber Court Assisted Living in Westbury. World-class beaches, pristine parks, restaurants and shopping centers surround this facility. Their proximity to entertainment, recreational hubs, medical centers, and their amenities make it a desirable destination for seniors.
Michelle stopped by the Glengariff Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center to round off her visits. Glengariff is known for its small and intimate setting, which allows for a personalized brand of care. Michelle was thrilled to speak with the team members about Life Care Planning and its unique ability to benefit their residents.
As elder care and estate planning attorneys, you’d be amazed at how often our client conversations revolve around a client’s health, finances, and relationships. That’s what estate planning is all about. Helping clients establish an estate plan has everything to do with their family, the assets to be inherited, and ultimately, their aging, health, and even mortality. So, let’s add one more small resolution to help ourselves and our loved ones – establish or review your estate plan this year. It’s a simple phone call, and we’ll help care for the rest. All this will help you organize your personal life and finances, giving you peace of mind knowing that you’ve provided for your loved ones and made their lives simpler.
For a FREE consultation, please call (631) 424-2800 or email info@tullyelderlaw.com
North Babylon, NY - October 22, 2023: Tully Law Group is happy to share the success of their participation in the 2023 North Babylon Walk to End Alzheimer's as the "Tully AlzStars." On October 22, 2023, this event showcased Tully Law Group's commitment to the Alzheimer's cause and its dedication to making a difference in the fight against this debilitating disease.
The North Babylon Walk to End Alzheimer's, organized by the Long Island Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, is an annual event that unites individuals and organizations in a collective effort to raise funds for Alzheimer's research and support services. Alzheimer's disease impacts countless lives across the United States. Tully Law Group, an elder care and estate planning law firm, has consistently supported Alzheimer's initiatives.
"We are proud of our Tully AlzStars and their dedication," said Brian A. Tully, founder and managing partner of Tully Law Group. "Alzheimer's is a awful disease; we will contribute to its cure in as many ways as possible."
The Tully AlzStars participated in the walk and raised funds for the cause. Tully Law Group thanks its clients, partners, and the community for their support.
To support the Tully AlzStars team, please visit our team page at https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=16745&pg=team&team_id=821950
For more information about Tully Law Group and its commitment to Alzheimer's advocacy, visit www.tullyelderlaw.com
Tully Law Group, PC is a leading Elder Care and Estate Planning law firm based in Melville, New York. With a team of experienced Attorneys, Elder Care Coordinators, Paralegals, and other professionals, the firm is dedicated to providing personalized and comprehensive legal services to clients seeking to plan their estates, protect their assets and minimize risks. Tully Law Group, PC concentrates on Elder Care, Estate Planning, Asset Protection, Medicaid Planning, Probate, Estate/Trust Administration, Guardianship and Special Needs Planning.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Caysie Ambrico Marketing & Communications Tully Law Group, PC
Direct: 631.636.0609 Email: caysie@tullyelderlaw.com
When adults lose the ability to make critical decisions about their health and assets, and a durable modified power of attorney does not exist, guardianship is an excellent form of support. Guardianship is a legal process involving a court-appointed individual whose role is to support someone in making decisions about their assets, health care, medical treatments, and more.
There are two types of guardianship, each serving a different purpose: Article 17-A and Article 81.
Article 17-A Guardianship is filed under the Surrogate’s Court Procedure Act, where an individual (18 years or older) can be appointed as a guardian of an adult who is deemed developmentally or intellectually disabled. Disabilities covered by this type of guardianship include epilepsy, cerebral palsy, autism, traumatic head injuries, and neurological impairments.
Article 81 Guardianship is filed under Mental Hygiene Law. This form supports incapacitated adults, which covers aging seniors losing the ability to make sound decisions about their well-being and assets.
A Guardian of the Person and Property can appointed when a Petition and Order to Show Cause is filed in court that illustrates a need for this support. If the judge determines a guardian is needed, the ultimate terms surrounding the guardianship will be outlined in the order.
A court-ordered guardianship hearing will determine if a guardian should be appointed and why. The court order may include living arrangements, medical decisions, financial decisions, etc. A guardian only has the power to act on what is detailed in the order and is required to account for all of their actions each year.
Guardianship can be a complicated and overwhelming process to manage. Brian Andrew Tully, Esq. will be moderating our monthly Senior Advocacy Forum on Guardianship on May 10, 2023 @ 1 PM. The panelists will be Robert Heppenheimer, MPA, CCM, and Partner Joanne M. Hawthorne, Esq.
May marks the beginning of National Elder Law Month! Since the Presidential Proclamation of 1963, when President John F. Kennedy designated May as “Senior Citizens Month,” May has been a month to celebrate and support aging Americans and the individuals and organizations dedicated to advocating for their well-being.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are more than 56 million adults over the age of 65 who could benefit from elder care planning. Knowing the legal options for long-term care and planning is essential to supporting your health and the health of your aging loved ones; however, it’s not always clear where you should start planning or what resources are available to help.
In honor of National Elder Law Month, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) acknowledges and promotes those in the profession who support the long-term care and health of the aging community. It’s the perfect time to spread awareness on accessing quality legal services and help seniors and families understand their legal options for long-term and special needs care.
National Elder Law Month is an especially important time for elder law attorneys who are constantly educating individuals and families on the importance of critical issues related to aging. Some of these include:
Elder law and senior advocates contribute significantly to their communities during National Elder Law Month–you can too! Help spread awareness by setting up events in your community that provide local and national resources for educating seniors and families on their legal options. You can also pass along resources and events you come across on social media to connect directly with your family and friends.
As elder care and estate planning attorneys, you’d be amazed at how often our client conversations revolve around a client’s health, finances, and relationships. In fact, that’s what estate planning is all about. Helping a client establish an estate plan has everything to do with a client’s family, the assets to be inherited, and ultimately their aging, health, and even mortality. So let’s add one more small resolution to help ourselves and our loved ones – establish or review your estate plan this year. It’s a simple phone call to us, and we’ll help take care of the rest. This will help you organize your life and finances and give you peace of mind knowing that you’ve provided for your loved ones and made their lives simpler.
For a FREE consultation please call (631) 424-2800 or email info@tullyelderlaw.com
Losing the capacity to make critical decisions about your health is scary, but it doesn’t have to be any made worse. National Healthcare Decisions Day on April 16th is a day for everyone to take stock and consider who will help them make these essential decisions to ease worries about the future.
Since 2008, National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD) has been helping bring awareness to the importance of advanced care planning. NHDD is celebrated across the country by multiple organizations with a series of independent events. It aims to make the topic of advanced care planning more comfortable and normal, an inescapable plan we have to make. Individuals, families, providers, and communities can all benefit from these conversations in spreading the knowledge of what’s available for advanced care planning and how to start the process.
Who will make your health care choices when you are unable? How can you be sure your end-of-life choices are honored? These are all great questions to look at this April. Some of the topics important to discuss include:
Health Care Proxy: A Health Care Agent who can make medical decisions for you if you are unable to communicate your health care wishes.
Living Will: A written document stating your wishes for end-of-life care.
Power of Attorney: A person who has the power to act as your agent on your behalf for legal and financial decisions.
As elder care and estate planning attorneys, you’d be amazed at how often our client conversations revolve around a client’s health, finances, and relationships. In fact, that’s what estate planning is all about. Helping a client establish an estate plan has everything to do with a client’s family, the assets to be inherited, and ultimately their aging, health, and even mortality. So let’s add one more small resolution to help ourselves and our loved ones – establish or review your estate plan this year. It’s a simple phone call to us, and we’ll help take care of the rest. This will help you organize your life and finances and give you peace of mind knowing that you’ve provided for your loved ones and made their lives simpler.
For a FREE consultation please call (631) 424-2800 or email info@tullyelderlaw.com
