If you are 60+ years old living in New Jersey, you are protected by elder law. These laws ensure the quality of life of aging persons and defend you during crises of health, abuse, age discrimination, kinship rights, public benefits, living wills, and financial matters. However, a certified elder law attorney can be helpful before a crisis hits, as well. Consider speaking to an elder law attorney regarding probate and estate management before you or a spouse passes on. They can also assist you with disability rights as covered by DRNJ, the assignment of proxies and guardians, and the creation of medical documents such as DNI/DNRs and Advanced Directives. New Jersey also takes elder abuse very seriously. Attorneys will seek the assistance of Adult Protective Services and/or the Office of the Ombudsman for the Institutionalized Elderly when elder abuse is suspected.