Overview
Certified by the National Elder Law Foundation as a Certified Elder Law Attorney, Letha Sgritta McDowell is a national leader in the elder care law field. She provides legal experience on a wide range of client issues with a focus on Estate & Tax Planning and Medicaid Eligibility.
Letha McDowell’s practice is built on the foundation of genuine care and empathy. With a warm and approachable demeanor, Letha understands that legal matters can be daunting, which is why she takes the time to forge meaningful connections with each client. By listening attentively and understanding their unique circumstances, Letha ensures that every client feels heard, supported, and empowered to make informed decisions about their future.
With experience spanning estate planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, and tax law, Letha offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of her clients. Whether navigating complex asset protection strategies or planning for the future, Letha provides thoughtful guidance and strategic solutions, designed to achieve her clients’ goals.
Letha’s influence extends beyond her law practice. Letha is passionate about sharing her knowledge and dedication for elder law with others. Her expertise is sought after in the legal community, where she frequently teaches continuing education programs on elder law and special needs planning and has contributed articles to national media outlets and publications. Her educational reach includes teaching Tax & Estate Law, at the prestigious Stetson Law University, where she is an adjunct faculty member. Additionally, she serves as a subject matter expert for InterActive Legal Estate and Elder Law Planning software and has worked on law and technology initiatives, including IBM’s Watson project.
Letha’s exceptional contributions have earned her numerous appointments and accolades, including being named a Super Lawyer Rising Star for multiple years and a Super Lawyer for consecutive years. She has earned the prestigious appointment of Fellow, both from the American College of Trust and Estate Council (ACTEC) and from the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA). Additionally, she is a certified elder law attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation (CELA) and board certified as a specialist in Elder Law by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. These appointments and accolades serve as a testament to Letha’s unwavering commitment to excellence both in her field and to her clients.
Recognition
- Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) by the ABA Accredited National Elder Law Foundation
- Board Certified as a Specialist in Elder Law by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization
- Accredited to prepare and prosecute claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs
- Martindale-Hubbell’s Peer Review Ratings - AV® Preeminent™
- North Carolina Super Lawyers® (2020-2025)
- North Carolina Rising Stars® (2014-2016 and 2018-2019)
Memberships
- American College of Trusts and Estates Council (ACTEC) – Fellow
- National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) – Fellow
- Stetson Law College – Adjunct Faculty
- InterActive Legal – Special Advisor on Elder Law Planning,
- National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) – Member, Board of Directors (2017-2023)
- Virginia Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (VAELA) – Member
- North Carolina Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NC NAELA) - Member