About Us
At Fortified Elder Law, we are an expert resource when it comes to protecting our clients’ assets. As one of the area’s only crisis Medicaid planning attorneys, Rachel Fortenberry saw a need for a firm focused on asset protection, estate planning, and Medicaid eligibility. Rachel founded Fortified Elder Law with expert strategies, know-how, and the experience of helping more than fifty families become Medicaid eligible.
Fortified Elder Law believes in Education, Service, and Community. As a firm, we seek to provide educational resources to the Springfield area to explain Medicaid eligibility and how to avoid probate. Our firm believes in providing excellent customer service with good communication and respect. We pride ourselves in being a lifelong resource for clients to ask questions and provide answers.
Fortified Elder Law is a sponsor of the Rogersville Senior Center. We are also members of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Springfield North Kiwanis International.
Rachel Fortenberry
Attorney at Law and Founder of Fortified Elder Law
I didn’t start my legal career in elder law, but I quickly found my way here—and I’ve never looked back. After working as a prosecutor in Christian County, I saw how overwhelming and emotionally draining the legal system can be, especially during times of crisis. I wanted to build something different: a place where families could get clear answers, trusted guidance, and real peace of mind.
I founded Fortified Elder Law to help families protect their loved ones and their life savings from the crushing costs of long-term care. Since then, my team and I have helped preserve more than $10 million for clients facing nursing home and in-home care transitions. Whether we’re guiding someone through a Medicaid application, helping them avoid probate, or creating a plan to protect their legacy, we approach each case with care, clarity, and compassion.
I earned my law degree from Case Western Reserve University and graduated cum laude from Missouri State University. I’m honored to be recognized as one of Biz 417’s 10 for the Next 10, a 40 Under 40 honoree, and a Rising Star by Missouri/Kansas Super Lawyers. I currently serve on the Board of the Missouri Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), as well as the President of the Board for the Hospice Foundation of the Ozarks. I also co-lead Springfield Area Senior Services (SASS), a collaborative group focused on improving senior care in our community.
Outside the office, I’m married to the love of my life, Brad. We’re slowly checking National Parks off our bucket list, and I’m happiest when I’ve got a good book in hand and a cat in my lap. (Hi, Nix.)
I know elder law isn’t just about documents and deadlines—it’s about families. It’s about protecting what matters most. That’s why I do what I do, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve.
Education
Case Western Reserve University, Juris Doctorate, 2015
Missouri State University, Bachelor of Arts, 2010
Awards
40 under 40, 2024
10 for the Next 10, 2024
Rising Stars, 2024
Bar
Missouri, 2015
Professional Affiliations
Have you been told that your spouse needs to go into a nursing home? Have you been told that you will need to file for a division of assets? Did someone say that you will have to get a divorce to qualify for Medicaid benefits? Have you been told that you will need a spend down to qualify for Medicaid? Have you been denied for Vendor MO HealthNet or recieved a transfer penalty and don’t know why? Contact Fortified Elder Law today.