about us

Special Needs Planning—Securing Care, Preserving Benefits in Virginia

Planning for a Loved One With Disabilities—You’re Not Alone

If you’re a parent or guardian of a loved one with special needs, worries about their long-term security never go away. It’s normal to wonder who will look after them and how you can provide financial support without risking their access to essential benefits. Special needs estate planning gives you the power to build a safety net, so your family member is cared for now and always. At The Soc Law Office, we help families across Northern Virginia create plans that honor your wishes and protect your loved one’s well-being.

What Is a Special Needs Trust—And Why Does It Matter?

A Special Needs Trust (SNT), sometimes called a Supplemental Needs Trust, is a legal tool that holds assets for a person with disabilities without counting against their eligibility for government programs like SSI or Medicaid. Without an SNT, an inheritance or direct gift can accidentally cause someone to lose crucial support, leading to stress and lost benefits. By placing funds in a properly structured trust, you can provide for extra care, therapies, or quality-of-life needs while your loved one keeps essential coverage. These trusts are carefully drafted to comply with both Virginia and federal laws, making sure every detail serves your family’s unique situation.

How We Help—Compassionate, Step-by-Step Guidance

Planning for a loved one with special needs requires care, foresight, and thoughtful guidance. Our process is designed to support your family at every step—helping you protect benefits, provide long-term security, and create a plan that reflects your values and hopes for the future.

Step 1: Family & Future-Focused Planning Conversation

We begin by learning about your family, your loved one’s needs, and the long-term goals you have for their care and quality of life.

Step 2: Custom Special Needs Trust Drafting

We draft special needs trusts tailored to your situation, designed to protect eligibility for public benefits while providing meaningful support.

Step 3: Trustee Selection Guidance



We help you evaluate and choose a trustworthy trustee who can manage the trust responsibly and in your loved one’s best interests.

Step 4: Beneficiary Designation Coordination

We guide you on properly naming the trust as a beneficiary on assets like life insurance and retirement accounts to avoid unintended consequences.

Step 5: Letters of Intent & Care Planning

Beyond legal documents, we assist with letters of intent or care plans so future caregivers understand routines, preferences, and your expectations.

Step 6: Clear Explanations & Collaborative Support

Liz explains every option in plain language and collaborates with financial advisors or local resources as needed to ensure a well-rounded plan.

The Soc Law Office Difference—Local Experience, Lasting Support

Protect Benefits While Enhancing Quality of Life

A well-structured trust means your loved one can access government benefits and enjoy supplemental care, outings, education, or therapies.

Stay Current With Complex Laws

Special needs planning is a legal specialty—our firm monitors changes to Medicaid, ABLE accounts, and Virginia-specific rules, so your plan is effective and up to date.

Holistic, Personal Approach

We go beyond paperwork—supporting families as they coordinate care, select trustees, and connect with Northern Virginia’s disability resources.

Real Results, Real Families

We’ve helped parents in Fairfax, Arlington, and Alexandria ensure their children’s long-term security, like the Fairfax family who set up a trust for their son with autism—giving peace of mind for decades to come.

Common Questions About Special Needs Planning

  • How can I provide for my disabled child without affecting benefits?

    By creating a Special Needs Trust, you let assets be managed for your child’s benefit without making them ineligible for Medicaid or SSI. The trust can pay for extras and improve their quality of life, but funds are managed by a trustee—not directly owned by the beneficiary.

  • What’s the difference between a will and a special needs trust?

    A will directs assets after death but doesn’t protect government benefits. A special needs trust is specifically designed to avoid disrupting eligibility for SSI or Medicaid, and it can be used during your lifetime or after you pass away.

  • Who should serve as trustee of a special needs trust?

    Many families choose a trusted relative, friend, or a professional trustee—someone who is responsible, organized, and understands your loved one’s needs. We’ll help you weigh your options and pick the right fit.

  • What else should I include in my plan?

    In addition to the trust, consider a letter of intent describing your loved one’s preferences, routines, and care needs, plus review all beneficiary designations to coordinate with the plan. We help you address every piece so nothing is overlooked.

  • Can special needs planning be added to an existing estate plan?

    Yes, we regularly update or supplement estate plans for families who want to add this critical protection—no need to start from scratch.

Secure Your Loved One’s Tomorrow—Start Today

Planning for a family member with disabilities is a loving act that brings peace of mind to the entire family. The Soc Law Office makes the process straightforward, empathetic, and focused on your real-world needs. Schedule a special needs planning consultation and let us help you build lasting security and support for those who matter most.