About Robert

Certified Elder Law Attorney® Robert W. Haley brings over 27 years of legal expertise and knowledge to his firm, which concentrates solely on the areas of elder law, estate planning (Last Will & Testaments, Durable Powers of Attorney, Health Care Powers of Attorney, Living Wills, Trusts, etc.,.) Asset Protection/Medicaid Planning and fiduciary services. For many years, Robert practiced in real estate law, and in general practice, but decided to narrow his focus to elder law and estate planning when he realized the tremendous need for proper planning to be filled in Southside Virginia. Robert found the attention to detail that is so important when searching a real estate title can also help families protect their hard-earned assets while securing crucial Medicaid eligibility for their long-term care needs. The Medicaid system is a myriad of rules and regulations and this attention to detail is what can often make the vital difference in planning! He understands how stressful it is for families when a loved one needs long-term care. He knows that while he cannot take away that burden, he can help give the family some peace of mind in the complex process of securing long-term care Medicaid benefits. Even families that have long-term care insurance in place have legal needs and Robert explains and educates his clients on their options so that they can make the best decision for themselves and their family both now as well as in the future! Robert has seen too many families spend their life savings unnecessarily or put in a position to sell their family home to qualify for the nursing home and long-term care; Robert and his staff diligently work to help families plan to avoid these heart-wrenching outcomes. For matters such as this, in estate planning, or when serving as an Independent Trustee or Executor, it is essential to choose an attorney with the education and expertise that gives you confidence in your counsel! Robert works hard to educate himself and his staff on an ongoing basis to provide experienced advocacy and representation for his clients at a time when they are in uncharted and unfamiliar, overwhelming circumstances. As the only Certified Elder Law Attorney® in Southside Virginia, many attorneys refer their clients to Robert due to his excellent reputation, not only as an expert in his field, but also as an award-winning attorney of the highest ethical standards. He is a charter member of the Virginia Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (VAELA) as well as a long-standing member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA). In addition, he is also on the NAELA Council of Advanced Practitioners, (CAP) a distinction he achieved early in his practice. CAP was established by the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) as an invitation-only council. Members are recognized as innovators of the profession; instrumental in leading the future of Elder Law; a major source of speakers, writers, and leaders of the NAELA programs and role models, providing a ”vision“ and mentoring for NAELA members. Candidates must be :​ NAELA members for a minimum of 10 years​ AV rated by Martindale-Hubbell® and​ Either a NAELA Fellow or a Certified Elder Law Attorney® A veteran and native of Bassett, Robert came back home to open his law practice in 1995 upon graduating law school after proudly serving our country in the United States Air Force for over eight years. When not in the office, Robert enjoys reading, smoking fine cigars, and traveling with his wife Cricket! To learn more about the firm and some of the staff that may be assisting you, visit this link: About Us - The Estate & Elder Law Center of Southside Virginia, PLLC (vaelderlaw.com)

Practice Areas

Education

• Faulkner University, Great Books Honors College, Ph.D. (ABD)
• University of Virginia, Master of Arts in Public Administration, graduated 1997
• University of Virginia, Juris Doctor, graduated 1994
• University of Maryland Global Campus Europe, Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude, graduated 1991

Languages