Attorney John Nale has lived in Maine most of his life, and has been practicing law in Central Maine for over 40 years. The last 30 of those years have been in partnership with his brother Mark. The brothers were raised by a strong and compassionate mother, who taught them to be aware of people’s challenges and to help whenever they were able.

The desire to be of service to others is what led John into the study of law after graduation from the University of Maine at Orono. After several years working as a criminal defense attorney, John responded to the call of his elderly aunt and uncle who needed help with legal issues regarding their long-term care. Together with Mark, his partner in practice, John resolved his aunt and uncle’s legal issues.

John found great satisfaction in lifting the burden of worry from his relatives’ shoulders, and realized that there was an unmet need in Central Maine for similar elder law services. For over 20 years, John has dedicated his entire practice to serving the legal needs of older Mainers in Waterville and the surrounding area.

John practices by the principle that “it’s not just about the law; it’s about the person.” He never loses sight of the fact that the work he does has an impact on the lives of real people. Working directly with people is one of John’s favorite things about his work; he genuinely cares about each of his clients and their families, and enjoys getting to know them personally. John takes pride in developing long-term working relationships with his clients, so that he can better understand their needs and identify legal options that will help achieve their goals.

As one of the few attorneys in Central Maine who concentrates exclusively in elder law, John speaks frequently to professional and community groups regarding long term care planning, estate planning, advance directives and MaineCare/Medicaid planning. When not working or speaking regarding elder law issues, John enjoys being active, camping, and enjoying Maine’s natural beauty with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Practice Areas

• Elder Law
• Estate Planning
• Advance Directives
• Planning for Blended Families
• Retirement Planning
• Long-Term Care Planning
• MaineCare/Medicaid Planning

Education

• University of New Hampshire School of Law, J.D. (1977)
• University of Maine at Orono, B.S. in Economics (1971)

Admissions to Practice

• Maine

Professional Memberships and Community Involvement

• Maine State Bar Association (Elder Law Section)
• National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)
• Maine Council on Aging
• Maine Gerontological Society
• Maine Association of Area Agencies on Aging (Past President, 2007-2013)
• Lakewood Rehabilitation Center (Former member, Board of Directors)

Honors and Recognitions

• Katahdin Counsel Award granted by the Maine Supreme Judicial Court for pro bono services to Maine’s elderly
• Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce’s Outstanding Professional (2010)