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

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

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

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

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

Trusts are a cornerstone of an effective Estate Plan. Through Trusts, you are able to avoid the often lengthy and costly Probate process and maintain greater authority over the distribution of your assets. However, not all Trusts are made the same. There are numerous types of Trust but each fits into one of two main categories: Revocable or Irrevocable Trust. The question remains: which one aligns best with your Read More

As we grow older, our care needs and circumstances change. We often require expensive care as we age and need the assistance of vital government programs like Medicaid to take care of certain medical costs. Of course, our financial resources are often limited in retirement. So, how can you preserve Medicaid eligibility even if you own valuable assets or have a high net worth? This is where a Medicaid Asset Read More

A complete Estate Plan accounts for all aspects of your life’s work. You work hard and acquire assets over time that hold value and meaning to you and your loved ones. However, an incomplete plan puts some aspects of your legacy up in the air. Your Estate Plan should include a number of elements that cover your specific situation, not just a single document. There is no “one-size-fits-all” planning strategy. Read More

We believe in the importance of having a plan for all stages of life – including death. Planning for what comes tomorrow ensures you and your loved ones aren’t left picking up the pieces when something unexpected happens. Short of clairvoyance, there’s no predicting what will happen but that doesn’t mean we can’t prepare for it. Dying without a will is dying without a plan. This is what is referred to as Read More

There is no one way to build a family. Many families in South Carolina turn to alternatives like adoption for their own reasons, and we wholeheartedly support that. Our team works with these families just the same as any other and want to equip families of all forms with the necessary Estate Planning toolbox they need to achieve peace of mind. Adoptions come with their own particular nuances in an Estate Plan. Read More