There are many different reasons to become a lawyer. For Kathleen, it’s not so much a question of what led to a legal career, as it is a question of who.

Kathleen became a lawyer because of her Uncle Danny. Kathleen’s Uncle Danny has an intellectual disability. While his disability colors who he is, it by no means defines him. He is known as the one who laughs the loudest, smiles the most, hugs the tightest, and loves the fullest. Though her uncle has never spoken a word in his life, he has taught Kathleen more about what truly matters than all the speeches in the world could convey.

Kathleen’s Uncle Danny formed her heart for advocacy. He taught her not only the beauty of disability, but also the incredible vulnerability, stress, and fear that families carry as they try to navigate a complex system that seems to plummet before every peak. After graduating summa cum laude from Central Connecticut State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy (and a minor in Theatre), Kathleen went to law school with the goal of learning everything she could about disability law.

In 2013, Kathleen graduated from Western New England University at the top of her class and was the recipient of the Norman Prance Award, an honor bestowed upon the student demonstrating the highest academic and personal achievement. She was also honored by her fellow classmates, who selected her as the student commencement speaker. In her speech, Kathleen shared her thoughts on the importance of knowing when to lean on others for support and when to take up the torch and lead.

After law school, Kathleen had the distinct honor of clerking for two Judges on the Connecticut Appellate Court. She also served as a special education attorney, advocating for the rights of students with disabilities within the school system. Kathleen later expanded her passion for disability planning into the realm of elder law and estate planning.

Kathleen seeks to help individuals of all ages and levels of need to respond to present challenges, prepare for future needs, and to rest more freely with a newfound peace of mind.

Firm Description

The Law Office of Kathleen D. Hayes, LLC is dedicated to educating and empowering individuals with disabilities and their families.  We believe that knowledge is meant to be shared, not shetlered.  We aim to demystify the realm of special needs planning, providing our clients with a clear plan for the road ahead.  We find that when our clients have a plan, they feel empowered with clarity and purpose, letting go of fear of the unknown.  

Our planning includes the creation of estate planning documents and special needs trust; guidance on the creation and management of ABLE accounts; planning with public benefits, including Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income; decision making guidance at age 18, with planning options spanning from power of attorney/healthcare directives, supported decision making agreements, and guardianship and conservatorship; preparing life care plans, including letters of intent and considerations as to housing, employment, and creating a natural support system; and adminstering special needs trusts. 

Don't hesitate to contact us to begin your planning.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

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