Ozarks Profile: Rebecca Pruitt

Tell us about your firm.

The law firm of Zerrer & Pruitt opened Jan. 2, 2002. I met my law partner, Lois Zerrer, in a book club several years ago. We both were ready for a new professional challenge at about the same time and decided to form a practice dedicated primarily to elder law. We are active members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, as well as the Missouri chapter of NAELA.

On what areas of law do you focus?

Our focus is on addressing the legal needs of seniors. This includes general estate planning and probate issues, counseling clients about planning for incapacity, planning for possible long-term care needs, coordinating private and public resources to finance the cost of care, and working to ensure the client's right to quality care.

Why do you feel these types of cases are important?

I believe elder law is important because it is a more client-focused approach to the practice of law, motivated by a desire to improve the quality of life for all seniors and their families. This includes supporting other organizations serving the elderly, educating the public on legal issues facing the elderly and advocating for public policies that will positively affect the elderly.

What do you like best about your work?

The thing I like best about my work is meeting and helping clients and their families. I also enjoy our office space in the Mosher house on Walnut Street.

What are your biggest challenges?

My biggest challenges as an elder law attorney are convincing people that "sooner is better than later" when it comes to legal planning (including planning for incapacity) and working with others in the community to protect the elderly from financial exploitation.

Tell us about your family.

I grew up in central Illinois. Most of my family still resides there. I moved to Springfield in 1996.

Do you have any spare-time hobbies or interests?

I enjoy music, especially jazz, and reading fiction. I am a die-hard University of Illinois Fighting Illini fan and enjoyed attending the bragging rights game against the University of Missouri in St. Louis Dec. 21. I serve on the boards of Springfield Mid-America Singers and McAuley Counseling Services.