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.

An elderly couple sitting on a couch, smiling and looking at a tablet.
Rachel Fortenberry

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

Awards

  • 40 under 40, 2024

  • 10 for the Next 10, 2024

  • Rising Stars, 2024

Bar

Professional Affiliations

Savanna

Savanna Moenning

Client Service Manager & Lead Paralegal

When I think about legacy, I want to be remembered for the good I’ve done and for making life a little easier for someone during a hard time. I’ve always been a doer, a fixer, and a communicator. In my role as a paralegal and Client Services Manager, I use those strengths every day. I serve as a bridge between our attorneys and the families we work with, helping ensure that no detail is missed and that our clients feel seen, heard, and supported.

I was born and raised in the Springfield area. After graduating magna cum laude from Willard High School, I went on to earn my Bachelor of Science in Communication from Missouri State University in 2017, graduating cum laude with a minor in Sociology.

Before joining Fortified Elder Law, I spent seven years in higher education at Ozarks Technical Community College. It was there that I discovered my passion for connecting with people. Whether working one-on-one or speaking to large audiences, I found that strong communication has the power to change lives. That experience shaped the way I approach my work today.

Since moving into elder law, I have developed a deep appreciation for the emotional and logistical challenges families face. Helping our clients through the Medicaid planning process has become a true calling for me. I know from personal experience that placing a loved one in a skilled nursing facility is never an easy decision. When it becomes necessary, families need clear guidance, patience, and compassion. It is an honor to be part of a team that provides exactly that.

In my free time, I enjoy life with my husband, Ethan. We love spending time at our second home, Cloud 9 Ranch, riding our side-by-side, dirt biking in Chadwick, and exploring creeks with our two Labs, Sunny and Moonshine. I’m also an avid crafter with a serious collection of knitting needles, yarn, and crafting tools like my Cricut and sewing machine. I currently serve on the executive committee for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and am the Treasurer of the North Springfield Kiwanis Club.

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.