Profile
Compassionate Elder Law and Estate Planning 👵
Carlin and Shapiro, P.A., is a distinguished law firm located in Portland, Maine, exclusively dedicated to the practice of Elder Law, Estate Planning, and Probate Administration. The firm was established by Barbara Carlin, a highly respected attorney who has devoted her career to advocating for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Together with shareholder Paul Shapiro, the team provides sensitive and knowledgeable legal counsel to help families navigate the complex challenges associated with aging, disability, and asset protection 🛡️.
Long-Term Care and Disability Planning
As healthcare costs continue to rise, planning for the future is essential. Carlin and Shapiro specializes in helping clients protect their hard-earned assets while ensuring they receive necessary care:
- MaineCare (Medicaid) Planning: Expert guidance through the intricate eligibility rules to secure benefits for nursing home or home-based care.
- Special Needs Trusts: Drafting specialized trusts that allow disabled individuals to benefit from assets without jeopardizing their eligibility for vital government programs like SSI and MaineCare.
- Asset Preservation: Strategies to prevent life savings from being depleted by catastrophic medical expenses 🏥.
Estate Planning and Probate Services
The firm offers comprehensive services to ensure that clients’ wishes are honored and their families are provided for:
- Wills and Trusts: Creating clear, legally sound documents to direct the distribution of assets and minimize taxes.
- Probate Administration: Assisting personal representatives (executors) in managing and settling estates efficiently after a loss.
- Powers of Attorney: Preparing durable financial and medical powers of attorney so trusted individuals can act if a client becomes incapacitated.
- Guardianship and Conservatorship: Representing families in probate court when a loved one can no longer make safe decisions for themselves ⚖️.
Professional Recognition
The attorneys at Carlin and Shapiro are recognized for their expertise and commitment to ethical practice:
- Super Lawyers: Barbara Carlin has been selected to the Super Lawyers list (2013, 2018-2025), a distinction awarded to the top 5% of attorneys in Maine.
- Certified Elder Law Attorney: The firm maintains high standards of specialized knowledge in the field of elder law.
- Community Involvement: The attorneys are active members of the Maine State Bar Association’s Elder Law Section and frequently speak on disability and estate planning issues.
For families in Portland and across Maine facing the legal complexities of aging or disability, Carlin and Shapiro, P.A. offers the experienced, empathetic, and effective representation needed to secure a stable future.
Specializing In
Elder Law, MaineCare Planning, Special Needs Trusts, Probate Administration
Address & Location
Located in the vibrant Arts District of downtown Portland, near the historic Old Port district.
Building Location
The firm is located in a historic 3-story brick commercial building at 48 Free Street, famously known for its iconic ‘blueprint’ facade mural in the 1980s. It stands across from the Aura music venue and is a short walk from the Portland Museum of Art.
Suite Access
Enter through the main lobby at 48 Free Street. Take the elevator or stairs to the second floor where you will find the offices of Carlin & Shapiro, P.A. in Suite 260.
Parking Details
Paid public parking is available at nearby facilities such as the Midtown Parking Lot at 44 Free Street or the One City Center Garage, as on-site parking is not provided.
Public Transit
Served by Greater Portland METRO Route 1 (Congress Street); nearest stop is at Congress St + Center St.
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