Bluffton Estate Planning Attorney
Assisting Clients With Estate Planning Matters in South Carolina
Preparing for the future can feel overwhelming, especially when loved ones rely on your decisions. At Collins Family & Elder Law Group, we work closely with Bluffton families to create practical and personalized estate plans. Our team understands how to guide you through every step, clarify your choices, and ensure your wishes are clear and well-protected. Whether you're starting from scratch or updating an existing plan, we make complex matters simple so you can take action with confidence.
Because we know Bluffton and the Lowcountry community, we tailor every plan to local needs. Families in this area have unique concerns—property values, local business ownership, and providing for family members with special health needs—and we account for local and state laws that impact your estate. With each consultation, we listen to your concerns, help you navigate your options, and work to secure your family’s future with legal documentation suited to South Carolina law. As estate planning attorneys in Bluffton, we focus on solutions that give you peace of mind long-term.
Call us today at (843) 350-3383 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our estate planning lawyer in Bluffton.
Why Choose Us?
Selecting an estate planning lawyer means trusting someone who listens, understands, and can offer sound legal direction. Our attorneys have more than 200 years of combined experience, and we are committed to helping families throughout South Carolina feel supported and understood. You can count on our open communication and thoughtful approach, especially during challenging times. We address elder law and family matters together—offering seamless guidance as your needs evolve. To make your experience simple and accessible, we provide both phone and video consultations to suit your schedule.
We build lasting relationships with our clients, providing continued support as your life changes. Many Bluffton and Lowcountry families return to us for periodic updates, knowing we bring patient guidance and a comprehensive approach. Our team consists of professionals who also have experience in mediation and navigating court matters, giving us extra insight to handle family dynamics and legal complexities. Our blend of legal depth and attentive service means clients feel comfortable and have an advocate every step of the way.
How We Can Help Assist You
Every family’s goals are personal, but everyone deserves a plan that brings clarity and protection. We listen to what matters most and recommend solutions based on your real circumstances and priorities.
Our Bluffton estate planning lawyers guide you through options such as:
- Wills & trusts: Draft documents that clearly outline your wishes for property and asset distribution and who should look after those you care about.
- Power of attorney & healthcare directives: Appoint a trusted decision-maker if you become unable to manage your affairs, making sure someone will look out for you and your loved ones.
- Elder law support: Address Medicaid planning, special needs planning, and guardianships—all designed to protect aging family members or individuals with unique challenges.
- Estate administration: Smooth transitions for beneficiaries by detailing your intentions and lessening confusion or disputes during emotional times.
Our planning process adapts as your family grows, South Carolina regulations change, or your goals shift over time. Because every client faces specific circumstances, we draw on decades of experience serving the Bluffton area to suggest the best legal tools for your needs.
How the Estate Planning Process Works
When you partner with our estate planning attorneys, you can expect:
- Personalized review: We take the time to understand your assets, preferences, and family dynamics, ensuring we address all relevant factors.
- Plan building: Together, we select the right documents and approaches so your wishes are clearly spelled out, and trusted individuals are identified in case you cannot act for yourself.
- Ongoing support: As laws or your circumstances change, we help you adapt your plan so you stay prepared.
- Clear communication: Throughout the process, we answer your questions and provide transparent information so you can make thoughtful decisions.
Family events—such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or changes in health—can all impact an estate plan. We encourage regular reviews so your documents always align with your current wishes. South Carolina's probate process has unique rules, especially when assets span multiple counties or out-of-state property. Our team’s local experience means we know how to guide clients through the necessary steps while anticipating administrative details that could otherwise delay or complicate the process.
FAQs
When should I update my estate plan?
Review your estate plan whenever you experience major life changes, such as marriage, divorce, welcoming a child, or significant shifts in wealth or health. Regular reviews help your documents remain current under South Carolina law.
Is a will enough for my estate planning?
A will covers property distribution, but many families benefit from powers of attorney, living wills, or trusts. These tools help protect your interests and guide others if you cannot make decisions yourself.
Does South Carolina require every estate to go through probate?
Most estates in South Carolina must go through probate unless assets are owned in a way that avoids it, such as certain trusts or joint accounts. With careful planning, families can minimize probate's impact.
What happens if I don’t have an estate plan?
If you don’t have a plan, your assets are distributed by state law, which might not match your intentions. Planning allows you to stay in charge and provide clear guidance for loved ones.
Contact Our Bluffton Estate Planning Lawyers Today
Planning for your family’s future brings confidence. Our lawyers provide caring, experienced guidance and offer convenient appointment options, including phone or video meetings that fit your routine. With our team at your side, you can act with certainty and protect your loved ones for years to come.
We know that taking the first step can feel challenging, so we keep the estate planning process as clear and approachable as possible. Our attorneys listen to your wishes, help you compare all available options, and adapt our guidance for your family’s unique needs. Whether you are caring for your parents, providing for your children, or securing your legacy, we work to build a plan that truly reflects your priorities. Reach out to talk with estate planning lawyers who value your trust and are dedicated to your peace of mind.
Contact us today to get started with our Bluffton estate planning attorney.
1st Floor
Bluffton, SC 29909
Our Satisfied Clients
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"I could never tell you how much I appreciate what you have done for me"Emiline Northcut
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"Your professionalism, compassion, and dedication are truly commendable. I am truly fortunate to have had you as my attorney."Rusty Strawn and Family
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"Shayna Matheny is incredibly amazing. She went above and beyond to help me in a very complicated case. She worked earnestly and did not give up the fight to get my kids and me the best outcome."Cecia Villalta
Meet Our Team
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Shawna Collins Founder -
Isla Tabrizi Partner & Chief of Legal Development -
Candace S. Faircloth Partner & Chief of Trial Strategy -
Jennifer Rodrigue Partner & the Regional Director of Lowcountry -
Kathryn Cook DeAngelo Senior Counsel -
Melinda Taylor Senior Attorney -
Amber R. Morris Senior Attorney -
Kristen Leonard Managing Attorney -
Nancy Roberts Attorney at Law -
Ali Miller Attorney at Law -
Monica Schuring Attorney at Law -
Stephanie Smith Attorney at Law -
Spencer Schold Attorney at Law -
Christine Robbins Attorney at Law -
Alexa Litt Attorney at Law -
Madison Woschkolup Attorney at Law -
Shayna Matheny Attorney at Law -
Chelsea Josey Attorney at Law -
Kaitlyn Yost Attorney at Law -
Tabitha Alcott Attorney at Law -
Mikaila Matt Attorney at Law -
Patti Tutone Attorney at Law -
Lauren Riedy Attorney at Law -
Paulina Havelka Attorney at Law -
Emma Blakley Attorney at Law -
Peyton Staab Attorney at Law -
Meredith Jolin Attorney at Law -
Ann- Marie Murzin Attorney at Law -
Savanna Kimble Earles Attorney at Law -
Nicole Jackson Attorney at Law