About Jim Schuster

Jim Schuster – CELA (ret’d)

Hello and Welcome

I’m retired from active practice now, though I’m still available for old clients and new folks who need a hand – and if I can’t help directly, I’m glad to refer you to a good Elder Law attorney. I was one of the first attorneys in Michigan to specialize in Elder Law, starting in 1995, and became the fourth Certified Elder Law Attorney in the state. Over the years, I’ve written extensively about this field, and I’m sharing that work here. You’ll note that our website isn’t a “sales” piece. It’s built on one idea: an informed client is the best client.

Got a question or need a referral to an excellent elder law attorney? Give us a call at 248-356-3500. If Dawn, my paralegal, doesn’t pick up, leave a message – you’ll get a call back within 24 hours. We’re friendly and we like to be helpful.

All the best to you. Jim

About Jim

Before law school, Jim worked as a social worker for the Michigan Department of Social Services (now the Department of Human Services). After passing the bar, he clerked for U.S. District Judge Noel P. Fox. In 1980 he began service as a judge for the Chippewa Ottawa Conservation Court. He later served on the Council of the General Practice Section of the State Bar of Michigan in every capacity, including Section Chair. His writing on Elder Law has been published on the website of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. His earlier articles on the practice of law were published in the Michigan Bar Journal, Michigan Lawyers Weekly, the Detroit Legal News, and Laches (the publication of the Oakland County Bar Association). He also presented course material for the Institute for Continuing Legal Education.

Credentials & Recognition

Certified Elder Law Attorney – Jim was the attorney in Michigan to be a Certified Elder Law Attorney. The National Elder Law Foundation, accredited by the American Bar Association, peforms the certification process. To earn the stature of a Certified Elder Law attorney, an applicant must prove 5 years of experience in Elder Law matters and sit for a full day examination all the subjects covered within Elder Law.
Former Chair, Elder Law and Advocacy Section, State Bar of Michigan
Member, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys – has contributed to the Academy’s publications
Former Member, Professional Speakers Bureau, Alzheimer’s Association.

Jim also has been:

AV Rated (peer-reviewed) by Martindale-Hubbell
Super Lawyer in Elder Law, Thomson Reuters
Rated Superb, 10/10 rating, AVVO

The Patient Advocate Guide

I am proud to say that in 1999 I first published The Patient Advocate Guide, a book to help families get the best possible care in a hospital or nursing home. Our 2026 edition is up to date with the legal references establishing your Medicare and Medicaid rights. You can review the law of the Guide at https://www.jimschuster.com/patient-advocate-guide-legal-authority/ We cover in-depth hospital discharge and care in a nursing home. The Guide gives you a checklist to choose the best nursing home and get the care that the law guarantees you. The Guide is used by professionals and families alike and best of all it is FREE to you.

Background

The Log Cabin Office

For many years, Jim’s office was in a locally famous historic log cabin at 24330 Lahser in Southfield – a spot that drew its own share of press, with articles in the Detroit Free Press, the Southfield Observer-Eccentric, and the Oakland Press. The office bird feeder kept well-fed birds, squirrels, and chipmunks who were regular visitors. Deer were often seen along the Rouge River behind the cabin, enjoying a little peace and quiet in the middle of the city. One holdout, though: the office groundhog never once showed up on Groundhog Day, so Jim never did get an early read on how long winter would last!

Need a Referral?

If you need a good Elder Law attorney, just ask; he’s glad to point you in the right direction. Call: 248-356-3500