PHOTOS PROVIDED Above, attorney Matthew Parker delivers remarks at Marshall, Parker & Weber’s annual professional update.

Marshall, Parker & Weber, an estate planning and elder law firm founded by Jeff Marshall, widely recognized as the “Father of Elder Law,” celebrated its 45th anniversary with area professionals on May 22 at its 29th Annual Professional Update.

According to a news release, The 29th Annual Professional Update featured “The Year in Review” by Matthew J. Parker, principal attorney, where Parker reviewed what has changed in the past year regarding seniors and a look at what lies ahead for the law and regulations.

The second session was a panel comprised of Nathan Grenoble, Grenoble Funeral Homes, Loni Kline, senior vice president for college relations and chief philanthropy officer at Pennsylvania College of Technology, and Tammy A. Weber, principal attorney, addressing “End of Life Planning for Clients.” The three panelists focused on planning for one’s intentions at death, drawing unique correlations between funeral, philanthropy and Medicaid planning. Attorney Cathy Sikorski gave the keynote presentation “Can We Talk?” Sikorski, an elder law attorney, author, and caregiver, gave a humorous but meaningful take on the benefits of professional collaboration, the news release said.

“We’ve been at the forefront of elder law for over four decades, and we know how essential it is to stay up to date with the ever-changing landscape,” said Parker, according to the news release. “This year’s Professional Update highlighted the latest legal developments, trends, and strategies to help professionals better serve their clients.”

Marshall, Parker & Weber also provides no cost information to the community through its monthly series “Open-Door Sessions.”

These free, in-person sessions provide community members with the chance to ask estate planning or elder law questions directly to Marshall, Parker & Weber’s Certified Elder Law Attorneys (CELAs), offering expert guidance on issues that can often be overwhelming.

“At MPW, we believe that no one should have to navigate these topics alone. That’s why we’ve opened our doors to both the community and the professionals who serve them,” said Weber, according to the news release. “As the field of elder law continues to evolve, we want to ensure that people have the support they need to make informed decisions. These Open-Door Sessions are our way of giving back, as we’ve always done.”

Marshall, Parker & Weber is a nationally recognized law firm with a history of excellence, the news release said. MPW and its attorneys have been included for more than a decade as one of America’s “Best Law Firms,” “Super Lawyers,” and America’s “Best Lawyers.” Inclusion in those lists is based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations, peer review from leading attorneys, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process. The law firm serves central and northeastern Pennsylvania from offices in Williamsport, Jersey Shore and Plains.

“The Certified Elder Law Attorneys provide expert legal advice that allows individuals to maintain their personal autonomy and financial security during life and to protect and pass on their wealth to their loved ones after death,” the news release said. “The firm provides each of its clients with a unique plan tailored to their goals and circumstances.”