As an elder law attorney, Lori Rook protects the interests of some of the most vulnerable members of society.
She believes her law practice takes a different approach to meeting the needs of the elderly and their estate planning questions, says Rook, a Springfield native who graduated cum laude in criminology from Missouri State University before earning her Juris Doctor from Oklahoma City University School of Law.
After law school in 2006, she worked at Turner, Reid, Duncan, Loomer & Patton PC. Two years later, Rook moved to Brown & James PC, where she stayed four years before joining Ozarks Elder Law in 2013.
Her primary services include estate and long-term care planning, guardianship and conservatorship, special-needs planning, elder abuse and trust administration.
“The majority of my clients are elderly, caregivers or the child of an elderly parent. Many times they are confused, tired, stressed and overwhelmed,” she says. “I spend as much time as needed making sure they are prepared for what may lie ahead.”
Rook says oftentimes mistakes have been made due to misinformation from a neighbor, nursing home or the internet, and her firm must work hard to fix them. Her approach is holistic.
“In addition to addressing their legal concerns, I want to make sure their daily needs are being met,” Rook says.
“Unfortunately, the elderly are oftentimes overlooked, forgotten by family or targeted in fraud schemes. As an elder law attorney, I believe it’s my job to protect them and point them in the direction of resources they need.”
For her clients who are business owners, she explains the importance of planning ahead, whether it be succession thinking or probate avoidance. Rooks says business owners often don’t think about planning for long-term care, so merely educating them on how owning a business will affect them if their health fails is key.
Nicole Hutson appreciates the example set by Rook.
“As a fellow lawyer, I can truly state that Lori has a heart for what she does. Assisting clients and leading them through legal matters is her top priority,” says Hutson, who practices at Ellis, Ellis, Hammons & Johnson PC. “Over the years I have known Lori, I have witnessed her excel as an associate attorney and litigator in a traditional law firm setting to becoming a respected partner and adviser.”
Hutson expects Rook to continue to contribute to her profession and the community.
“I have been lucky enough to look to Lori as a mentor in both the legal profession and through her community service.” Hutson says.
“Lori has made amazing strides and made a name for herself in the Springfield community in the 10 years that I have had the pleasure of knowing her. I can only imagine the accomplishments she will continue to achieve over the many years of her legal career.”
Rook offers pro bono services through Legal Services of Southern Missouri and is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Southern Missouri Women Lawyers and Junior League of Springfield.
