About Michael Monteforte

Why do I do this?
It's simple really. My family - specifically, my grandparents. Although they are no longer with us, their memory is a constant reminder to me about why I chose this field.

When my firm was still new, my grandparents (to me, Nanny & Papa) decided it would be best to move into an assisted living facility. My grandfather was starting to suffer from dementia, and his symptoms were worsening. It was time for them to live in a setting that offered more specialized care. As we all know, the costs of long-term care are astronomical. During this time, my family and I watched as they drained their savings in order to live comfortably and safely.

My family kept asking me about my grandparents’ legal rights, but I was a young lawyer then, and the truth is, I didn't know the answers. I was still perfecting and honing the focus of my practice. I made a pledge to myself then, that I would become educated in the fields of elder law and estate planning. I took this opportunity to read and learn as much as I could to find some way — any way — to help my family. So I read, and I studied, and I attended continuing legal education, so I could learn this field.

Although I was of some help to my grandparents, there wasn't much I could do at that point, because pre-planning is the key, and we were already late to the game. But that’s when I found my passion. I currently only accept cases in estate planning and elder law. While I have resources and a referral network available for clients needing other forms of legal help, my focus gives me the greatest opportunity to provide as much help as I can.

So that's why I do it, and why I am passionate about it.