Have you ever wondered what happens to your digital footprint when you pass away? You should, especially if you’re one of the 85% of Americans who go online daily. As the internet plays a continued role in our lives, the information we store online — from pictures and videos to financial records, emails, social media accounts, and more — forms a significant part of our legacy. This collection of online data is known Read More
What You Need to Do to Prepare for Meeting with Your Charleston Estate Planning Attorney
We’re glad you’re here. You’ve decided it’s time to set up a meeting with your Charleston Estate Planning attorney to get your affairs in order. It’s time to make sure your family is protected. Regardless of whether you’re starting your Estate Plan from scratch or updating one you and your family already had in place, it’s time to consider the next major step: preparing for your meeting with your attorney. We meet Read More
Organization is Key When Meeting With Your Estate Planning Attorney
You’re officially ready to get your Estate Plan in order. This is a huge commitment, and we’re happy to know you and your family are ready to find the peace of mind that comes with an effective Estate Plan. Ensuring your family is protected is paramount. Now that you’ve scheduled the first appointment with Charleston Estate Planning Law Firm, you might be thinking “What’s the next step?” Some clients come to us with Read More
How You Can Protect Your Estate Plan From Court Involvement
Wanting to avoid court involvement in your estate is a common thought. After all, it is your legacy that’s at stake. Avoiding the necessity of court involvement for financial, privacy, and other reasons is not an unreasonable thought. But, how are you able to avoid having your legacy a matter of the public record for all to see? If you feel that the matters of your estate should be kept private and that your assets Read More
Avoiding Estate Planning Pitfalls
In the ever-changing landscape of life, Murphy's Law stands tall: if anything can go wrong, it will. Estate planning, unfortunately, isn't immune to its effects. However, there's hope! Let's delve into five common estate planning mistakes and how to rectify them to ensure your legacy remains intact: Guardianship Missteps: Your will acts as a guiding light for your estate and, crucially, for the care of Read More
How Do I Disinherit Family Members in South Carolina?
In an ideal world, our Estate Plan would seamlessly transition our legacy to loved ones without a second thought about broken family ties. Unfortunately, relationships within families can be unpredictable, leading to changes in our wishes for who will acquire our hard-earned assets and legacy. So, what does one do when circumstances change and they decide not to pass on assets to children or even a spouse in South Read More
Why Personal Representatives (Executors) of South Carolina Estates Need Legal Representation
Taking on the role of a personal representative (otherwise known as an executor) of an Estate in South Carolina is often a daunting task. Estate Administration requires careful planning and meticulous attention to detail. The role of an executor is pivotal in ensuring that the decedent's wishes are honored and legal obligations are met. At Charleston Estate Planning Law Firm, we understand the reasons why Read More
Key Differences Between Conservatorship and Guardianship
When stepping into the role of a Guardian or Conservator, you're not just taking on a legal responsibility; you're embracing a deeply human act of care and protection. These roles, often misunderstood, are about more than just legal terms; they represent a commitment to safeguarding the well-being and dignity of those who can't do so themselves. There is a delicate balance between Guardianship and Conservatorship, Read More
A Practical Approach to Updating Your Estate Plan
As the New Year unfolds, it presents an opportune moment for individuals to assess and update their Estate Plans. An Estate Plan is a critical tool that directs how one's assets and responsibilities are managed and transferred after their death or in cases of incapacity. The legal landscape, tax laws, and personal life circumstances are all dynamic elements; thus, what was relevant and effective in an Estate Plan Read More
Estate Planning for Bachelors and Bachelorettes and People Living Together
Being unmarried doesn't mean you're alone, but it does emphasize the need for a solid plan. Estate planning is often associated with married couples, but it's equally crucial for individuals flying solo. In fact, for singles, having a well-coordinated estate plan is often even more critical. Default laws that govern estates may not work seamlessly for those without a spouse, potentially leaving an unmarried partner Read More