Elder Law.

• Author: Waddell, Jason A.
• Position: Annual Reports of Sections and Divisions of the Florida Bar: 2018-2019

The Elder Law Section continues to grow and develop in exciting ways. We are advocating, educating, and implementing a strategic plan to help protect retirees and individuals with special needs. In light of Florida's longstanding tradition as the nation's premier retirement destination, combined with the increased number of individuals reporting special needs, the Elder Law Section stands as a vital resource to The Florida Bar, legislature, courts, and the citizens of Florida.

The Elder Law Section offers multiple ways for Florida attorneys to become engaged in our plan. I appreciate the opportunity to provide this report as an overview of the many ways our section members are accomplishing our goals.

* Continuing Legal Education --The Elder Law Section (ELS) is finding an increase in demand for webinar and telephonic CLEs. ELS has increased the frequency of these types of CLEs. For example, the veterans webinar offered earlier this year in response to the sudden change announced by the VA to the nonservice connected benefit programs. Additionally, we have continued our bimonthly "Tricks of the Trade" calls for section members, as well as, offered a webcast of our major live events.

Despite an increase of online or telephonic CLEs, ELS continues to offer three or four live events each year with virtually all making a profit with positive feedback.

In January, we hosted our three-day annual update in Orlando. The first day is a primer and intermediate course covering a broad list of elder law topics. The second and third day provide a deeper dive into more advanced areas of elder law practice. Randy Bryan was chair of this year's event, and all signs are the event was a huge success. Beyond overwhelming positive feedback from attendees, we continue to have event sponsors immediately sign up for the following year as the spots are selling out months before the event!

On March 22, ELS will host a full day CLE on changes in the POMs regarding SNTs. Many have called the recent change one of the most substantial changes in recent times; therefore, we believe this will be a very timely and well-attended event.

During The Florida Bar's Annual Convention in June, the ELS will be involved in two programs. First, the Guardianship Committee (chaired by Twyla L. Sketchley and Debra Slater) will host a half-day CLE covering recent changes to the practice of guardianship. Due to recent and proposed changes to this area of the law, this stands to be a...