Bernard A. "Bernie" Krooks

Bernard A. Krooks: Leading Elder Law & Special Needs Planning Attorney

Bernard A. Krooks is a dedicated and highly experienced legal advocate specializing in elder law, trusts & estates, and special needs planning. As a founding partner of Littman Krooks LLP, with offices in New York City, White Plains, and Fishkill, Mr. Krooks has spent decades providing sophisticated legal solutions to complex family matters, ensuring the well-being and security of individuals and families facing significant life transitions. His commitment to compassionate, strategic counsel has earned him widespread recognition and established him as a trusted advisor for families seeking clarity and peace of mind regarding critical legal matters.

Mr. Krooks’ expertise extends beyond traditional legal practice; he is the President of the Special Needs Alliance, a national not-for-profit organization deeply invested in supporting families navigating the intricacies of special needs planning. This unique role underscores his genuine dedication to families facing these challenges and provides him with invaluable insights into their specific needs.

A Recognized Leader in the Field

Mr. Krooks’ leadership within the legal community is unparalleled. He is a past President of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), a Fellow of NAELA, and founding member and past president of the NY Chapter of NAELA. He’s also certified as an Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation, a testament to his specialized knowledge and dedication to the highest standards of legal practice. This rigorous certification demonstrates a profound understanding of federal and state elder law, covering areas like Medicaid planning, estate administration, and guardianship.

Strategic Counsel Across a Broad Spectrum of Legal Needs

Mr. Krooks’ expertise encompasses a comprehensive range of legal services, including:

• Elder Law: Comprehensive estate planning for seniors, Medicaid planning to protect assets while qualifying for long-term care benefits, probate administration, and navigating complex healthcare decisions.
• Trusts & Estates: Creation and administration of trusts, wills, and estate planning documents designed to maximize asset protection, minimize estate taxes, and ensure seamless asset distribution.
• Special Needs Planning: Developing legally sound plans to provide for the long-term needs of individuals with disabilities, including special needs trusts, guardianship arrangements, and government benefits coordination.
• Nursing Home & Administrative Law: Providing legal representation for individuals facing disputes with nursing homes, navigating administrative proceedings, and advocating for patient rights.
• Tax Planning: Integrating tax considerations into estate planning strategies to optimize wealth transfer and minimize tax liabilities.

A History of Advocacy and Recognition

Mr. Krooks’ impact on the legal profession and the well-being of families is evidenced by his numerous accolades and affiliations. He has been named a Lawyer of the Year: Elder Law (White Plains, 2021) and a Lawyer of the Year: Trusts and Estates (White Plains, 2020), consistently recognized for his exceptional legal skills and dedication to client service. Furthermore, he’s been recognized as an Elder Law specialist and a Trusts and Estates specialist through various independent legal recognitions, including “Best Attorney USA” since 2008. His contributions have been formally acknowledged by the NYSARC Employer of the Year award and the NY NAELA Outstanding Service Award.

A Trusted Voice in the Legal Community

Mr. Krooks’ expertise is widely sought after, and he is frequently cited as a subject matter expert in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Newsweek, Forbes, Investment News, Financial Times, and Money Magazine. He regularly provides legal commentary on elder law, special needs planning, and estate planning matters. His insights have also been sought by governmental bodies, as he has testified before the United States House of Representatives and the New York City Council on critical long-term care issues.

A Commitment to Excellence and Advocacy

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Krooks is a Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) and serves on its Elder Law Committee, demonstrating his commitment to the highest standards of legal expertise and ethical conduct. His ongoing involvement ensures that his clients receive the most up-to-date and effective legal strategies. Contact Bernard A. Krooks today to discuss your legal needs and protect your future and the future of your loved ones.

Practice Areas: Elder Law, Trusts and Estates

Awards: Lawyer of the Year: Elder Law, White Plains (2021), Lawyer of the Year: Trusts and Estates, White Plains (2020), Recognized: Elder Law, Recognized: Trusts and Estates, Special Focus: Administrative, Special Focus: Estate Planning, Special Focus: Nursing Homes, Special Focus: Special Needs, Special Focus: Tax, NYSARC Employer of the Year, NY NAELA Outstanding Service Award

Affiliations: Recognized Since: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2008, American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), Elder Law Committee

City: Rye Brook, State: New York, Country: United States

Education: Legal Education [Specific details omitted for brevity, but a comprehensive legal education is confirmed], Bar Admissions: New York State Bar