Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation

New San Diego Rental Rules: What Senior Tenants Should Know

In this episode of Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation, host David Shwartz, attorney at Elder Law & Advocacy, is joined by Madison Kovall, a San Diego–based tenant rights attorney, to unpack an important San Diego City ordinance that changes how utility fees are regulated in rental housing - and what those changes mean for senior tenants.
Together, they explore how updates to local housing policy can affect older adults, the protections built into the new ordinance, and what tenants should know moving forward. The conversation also examines the broader implications for elder law, tenant advocacy, and renter protections across San Diego.

How to Support Aging Loved Ones: Expert Advice from Bryan Devore

In this episode of Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation, Bryan Devore joins the show to share his mission to improve the quality of life for older adults and help more seniors age safely and independently at home. Bryan serves as Board President of the San Diego Council on Aging, is a longtime Board Member of ElderHelp of San Diego, and leads the Senior Division at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties.
In this episode, Bryan brings together his experience in senior advocacy, community leadership, and real estate specializing in senior transitions. He offers insights on aging in place, navigating senior housing, supporting aging loved ones, and building communities where older adults can thrive with dignity and connection.
A must-listen for caregivers, families, senior service professionals, and anyone interested in improving aging experiences in their community.

The Truth About Nursing Homes: Attorney Tony Chicotel on Policy, Reform, and Resident Rights

In this episode of Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation, Attorney Tony Chicotel shares his powerful journey as an advocate working to improve the quality of life in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and memory care communities. Tony discusses the challenges residents face inside long-term care, the progress driven by legal advocacy and policy reform, and the critical work still needed to protect vulnerable older adults.
Known for his unique blend of expertise, compassion, and even a side passion for rap, Tony brings heart and honesty to every story he tells. This conversation offers a meaningful look at the realities of elder care, resident rights, and the fight for dignity in senior living environments.
 
Listen to the full episode to learn more about the movement to transform long-term care and how you can support seniors and their families.

Volunteer Attorney Ann Vue on Serving Seniors and the Impact of Elder Law Advocacy

In this episode of Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation, Attorney Ann Vue reflects on her two years of volunteering with Elder Law & Advocacy and the powerful impact of serving seniors in need. Ann shares what it’s like to work directly with vulnerable older adults, the challenges they face navigating legal issues, and why this work has become one of the most meaningful parts of her career.
She talks about the client stories that shaped her, the supportive and mission-driven team she worked alongside, and how community-based legal aid transforms lives. This episode offers an inside look at the importance of accessible legal services for seniors, family caregivers, and anyone committed to protecting older adults’ rights and dignity.
Listen to the full conversation on Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation to learn more about our work and how you can get involved.

Fighting for the Rights of Nursing Home Residents with Attorney Andrew Thompson

In this episode, Attorney Andrew Thompson, a leading advocate for nursing home residents and their families, breaks down the realities of elder neglect, nursing home abuse, and the legal responsibilities long-term care facilities must uphold. Andrew explains how to recognize the early warning signs of neglect, what families should document, and the most common violations of elder care standards that attorneys see in both assisted living and skilled nursing facilities.
We also dive into the legal challenges families face when pursuing a claim - from navigating state elder abuse laws to understanding what constitutes a breach of duty.  Andrew offers clear, actionable guidance on how to advocate for a loved one, protect their rights, and take the right legal steps when negligence or abuse is suspected.
Whether you’re caring for an aging parent, researching long-term care options, or seeking to understand how elder law attorneys hold nursing homes accountable, this conversation provides practical insight from an expert on the front lines of elder justice.
Learn how legal advocacy, accountability, and informed decision-making can make all the difference for vulnerable seniors in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Stay connected with Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation for more insights on elder justice, legal advocacy, and protecting seniors.
 

Attorney Chris Crowson Breaks Down Medicare Appeals After Decades in the Field

In this episode of Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation, Elder Law & Advocacy Deputy Director and Attorney Jenna MacRae sits down with HICAP Attorney Chris Crowson, who reflects on his remarkable 35-year career serving older adults - 25 years with Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) and 10 years in the legal services programs at Elder Law & Advocacy. 
 
From guiding thousands of seniors through complex legal challenges to representing them in Medicare Appeals, Chris shares powerful stories of advocacy, compassion, and lasting community impact. His decades of service highlight the critical role of legal aid in protecting the rights and dignity of older adults.
 
Stay connected with Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation for more insights on elder justice, legal advocacy, and protecting seniors.
 
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AI Scams & Crypto Fraud: The Hidden Crisis Facing Seniors | Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation

In this premiere episode of Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation, Executive Director and Supervising Attorney Jaime Levine sits down with Attorney Caleb Logan to uncover the realities of elder abuse, financial fraud, and senior scams affecting older adults today.
Caleb shares insights from his experience litigating cases against nursing homes, banks, and fraudsters who target seniors, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how these cases unfold and the psychological tactics scammers use to manipulate their victims. 
They explore the psychology of scams, the growing use of AI and cryptocurrency in financial exploitation, and the critical role of legal aid, consumer protection, and advocacy in keeping older adults safe.
It’s an eye-opening conversation about justice, compassion, and the fight to safeguard dignity in aging.
Stay connected with Elder Law & Advocacy: The Conversation for more insights on elder justice, legal advocacy, and protecting seniors.
 
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