Why work with a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA)?
 

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Ruth-Ann E. Toups is one of only 11 attorneys in Texas who are hold both the CELA designation and are Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law.

 

Ruth-Ann is a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) by the National Elder Law Foundation, which is the only organization who can certify elder law attorneys. Any lawyer can claim to practice elder law. A CELA must have several years of work in the discipline and pass a rigorous examination to prove her knowledge of tax, public benefits, trust, and other disciplines comprising elder law. CELAs are required to update their skills and knowledge throughout their careers and are subject to peer review.​ In the state of Texas there are over 120,000 attorneys but there are only 28 CELAs.

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In addition to being a CELA, Ruth-Ann is also Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. To be Board Certified, an attorney must demonstrate a depth of practical experience, extensive continuing legal education hours, and pass a rigorous exam. There are only 672 attorneys in Texas who are Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law.

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If you have a heart problem would you go to any doctor? No, you would seek out a board-certified cardiologist. Why go to any attorney when you need a specialist?