Hand Holding

This past weekend Asher and I went to a play at the Children's Theatre, just the two of us - a mom and son date. That in itself was such a gift. But to top it off, I just loved that as we walked around, he still reached for my hand to hold. That used to be something I took for granted when he was younger, but at 10, I am so much more aware of these moments.

I can think of the other times he's held my hand in the past month - at the grocery store, leaving church, walking to his basketball games. Each time he grabs my hand, it is such a delight. I'm not sure when he'll decide that he's too old to do so, especially in front of friends. For now, I'm treasuring this affection and keeping in mind that it could easily come to an abrupt end!

Due Diligence - or should I say "Dues" Diligence?

In my business as a financial advisor, before taking on a potential new client, I take time to meet the individual in person; to learn more about them personally, discuss their background and goals, and review their financial documents. I don't charge for this, as it is part of performing my due diligence. We can't determine if there is a good fit for each other without this step.

In the legal profession, I've learned that those steps can equate to hundreds or even thousands of dollars. In my dad's quest to live on his own, he's now twice sought the help of an attorney to plead his case. Both have met with him, conveniently learned that he's financially comfortable (unusual for the average chronic brain-injured alcoholic senior living in a group setting), and after spending an undue amount of time "researching" his situation before determining that he is in fact placed in a suitable setting, slapped him with bills ranging from $800 to $3200.

I simply don't get this. Where is the oversight? Both claimed that my dad "had a right to be represented if he felt that he was being mistreated." I get that. But a couple phone calls to doctors, previous program directors, and easy requests for documents from my brother and I could have provided enough documentation for them to realize that my dad's request was not realistic. Instead, knowing that they were working with a vulnerable adult with financial means, they billed for every phone call, every email, and every lift of the finger related to working "on behalf" of my dad. I find this despicable.

How can my brother and I prevent future situations like this? My dad is highly likely to go back to the drawing board and just seek out another attorney. He is happy to boast of his savings, which I fear will only entice another lawyer to so valiantly "seek justice" for my dad. Mike says I ought to contact the Attorney General - not sure if that's the right outlet, but worth a try. Would love to find out if others have been in a similar situation with vulnerable relatives...