Last Will & Testament Drafting in Charleston, SC
Charleston families rely on properly drafted wills to protect assets, name guardians for minor children, and avoid South Carolina intestacy laws that may not reflect your wishes.
- SC-compliant drafting
- Guardian designations included
- Same-week appointments
What Is Last Will & Testament Drafting?
A last will and testament is a legal document directing how your property is distributed and who manages your estate after death under South Carolina law.
Why Choose Cornerstone Law Group for Last Will & Testament Drafting
Why Choose Us
Cornerstone Law Group understands how South Carolina probate courts in Charleston County process estates. We draft wills that hold up to scrutiny, minimize family disputes, and reflect exactly what you intend - not boilerplate language.
Common Last Will & Testament Drafting Scenarios
New Parents in Mount Pleasant
Couples with young children need guardian designations and asset protections in place before the unexpected happens.
Blended Family Estate
Spouses with children from prior relationships need precise language to protect each child's inheritance rights equally.
Retiring to the Lowcountry
Retirees relocating to Charleston from other states often need existing wills updated to comply with South Carolina law.
Our Last Will & Testament Drafting Process
Initial Consultation
We review your current assets, family structure, and goals during a focused 60-minute meeting at our Charleston office or via secure video.
Draft Preparation
Our attorneys prepare a customized draft within five business days, addressing property distribution, executor selection, and guardian designations clearly.
Review & Revisions
You review the draft and request changes. We revise until every provision accurately reflects your intentions before finalizing language.
Execution & Witnessing
We coordinate proper signing with two witnesses and a notary as required by South Carolina Code Section 62-2-502 to ensure full legal validity.
Last Will & Testament Drafting - Frequently Asked Questions
South Carolina requires two witnesses but not notarization for a standard will to be valid. However, adding a self-proving affidavit with notarization speeds up probate significantly at Charleston County Probate Court.
South Carolina does not recognize handwritten holographic wills. Without proper witnessing and legal language, a homemade will can be challenged or rejected by the probate court, leaving your estate to state intestacy rules.
Estate planning attorneys recommend reviewing your will every three to five years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, a new child, significant asset purchases, or relocating to South Carolina from another state.
South Carolina's intestacy laws under Title 62 of the Probate Code determine who inherits. Your assets may pass to relatives you would not have chosen, and a court - not you - appoints a guardian for minor children.
SERVICE AREAS
Last Will & Testament Drafting Near You
Cornerstone Law Group provides last will & testament drafting throughout Charleston and surrounding communities.
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