Do you have a last will and testament set up? Though most people know they need their affairs in order, most procrastinate about estate planning. We get it - thinking about your death and what happens to your assets when you pass is uncomfortable. The truth is, though, that working with an estate planning attorney in Greenwood, SC, doesn't just protect your assets.
Having a will in place protects you and your loved ones, too, both while you're living and after you're gone. And while there's no perfect time to plan your estate, doing so sooner than later will provide security and peace of mind down the line.
At Lauren Taylor Law, we know that one-size-fits-all plans aren't suitable for your needs. That's why our team of estate planning attorneys sits down to speak with you one-on-one so that we can help create an estate plan tailored to your wishes. That way, your family and loved ones are protected when it's time for you to go.
When it's all said and done, our goal is to provide all of our estate planning clients with more information and options so that they feel less stressed about the process. After all, peace of mind is priceless these days. Why spend time worrying about the future of your family when you can do your part to provide for them now?
GET HELP NOWIf you're feeling over-stressed and uninformed about estate planning, don't worry. You're not alone! Most of our estate planning clients are filled with doubt and worry when they walk into our office. They're concerned about their kids, their spouses, their loved ones, or all of the above. They have serious questions that need truthful answers, such as:
If you find yourself asking these or other pertinent questions, our experienced team is here to help answer them. We've worked with hundreds of individuals and families trying to plan their estates, many of whom are forced to act quickly. In such situations, it's crucial to work with an estate planning firm with your best interests at heart.
Estate planning in South Carolina is like second nature for our team of seasoned attorneys. We've done it all, from setting up healthcare power of attorneys and will packages to full estate planning that involves millions of dollars in assets. When you choose Lauren Taylor Law as your estate planning team, you can rest easy knowing you'll work directly with an experienced lawyer.
Because when it involves your estate and your family's future, passing your case off to a junior associate or paralegal isn't an option. Instead, you'll be working with a dedicated attorney with the time, resources, and knowledge to exceed your needs. At the end of the day, we're passionate about the outcome of our client's estate planning cases because the future of their family is at stake.
To get a better sense of your estate plans and needs, your attorney will consult with you, so that they can answer your questions and educate you on the nuances of estate law in South Carolina. That way, you can leave our office feeling a little wiser and a lot more informed about what options lie ahead.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services in South Carolina Estate Law, encompassing the following areas:
When you hear the word "estate," what comes to mind? Many people think of a sprawling, multi-story mansion on the water. However, you don't have to be uber-wealthy to have an estate. Chances are you already have one. An estate is comprised of all the assets a person owns, such as:
And that, in a nutshell, is what estate planning is all about - working with an estate planning attorney in Greenwood, SC, to create a framework that recognizes the people or organizations who should benefit from your assets. Though it may require some work and introspection up front, planning your estate now will make life easier for you and your loved ones down the line.
However, great estate plans usually cover more than fiscal assets. Your estate plan should also include:
Contrary to what others may tell you, estate planning isn't just reserved for older people approaching retirement. Estate planning is a savvy and responsible way to plan ahead because we never know when it could be our time to go.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our estate attorneys craft personalized wills while providing guidance on many estate planning topics. Some of the most common estate planning services we offer include:
Wills are a crucial legal document and the primary building block of professional estate planning. They are legal declarations that you use to name one or more people to administer your estate. Wills also dictate provisions for how your wealth is distributed after death. Hiring an estate planning attorney in Greenwood, SC, ensures you get the outcomes both you and your loved ones prefer.
Sometimes, you need authorized representation to help with your affairs. Having a power of attorney lets you choose a person to act on your behalf or represent you in private or legal matters. It should be noted that while you have access to standard power of attorneys, they can only fulfill basic planning needs. Our team can help you draft a more comprehensive document addressing all your administrative needs.
Also referred to as an advanced directive, your living will states your medical end-of-life wishes if you cannot communicate. This sensitive document guides your family members and doctors through difficult situations, like whether you should be resuscitated after a car crash.
In addition to the estate planning services above, we also specialize in:
Estate planning can be a complex process, but drafting a well-rounded plan now will make a big difference to your beneficiaries in the future. To give you a better understanding of estate law in South Carolina, keep these basic concepts and strategies in mind.
If there were one strategy that every estate attorney agrees about, it would be maximizing what you plan to leave behind. Taking time to think through what you'll be leaving and to whom you'll be leaving it to is crucial in estate planning. It's important to note, however, that your plans may change depending on what type of asset you're leaving behind, its worth, your age, and many other factors. With an estate planning lawyer in Greenwood, SC, by your side, you'll learn about the pros and cons of your choices while minimizing court fees and taxes.
The person you choose as the executor of your will plays a big part in your affairs. Your executor is responsible for finalizing estate settlements while upholding the terms of your will. Such a demanding role requires a unique person, and choosing that person is a decision you should take seriously. Your executor should be adept at managing money and should be patient in stressful times because they're responsible for the following:
To ensure your executor upholds your instructions and wishes, ask that they use an estate planning attorney in Greenwood, SC, for help. Having a trustworthy, experienced lawyer on your side will help ensure your estate is distributed accurately and according to South Carolina law.
As one of the most trusted estate planning law offices in South Carolina, we encounter clients all the time who question whether having a will is really necessary. They think that because their will is small or modest, having one is a waste of money. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.
Why? Think about what would happen if you didn't have a will. When you pass away without a will, you're dying "intestate." In this scenario, intestate succession laws in South Carolina determine where your assets go. You do not get to choose.
If you have a cherished family heirloom that you want to pass to your niece or a valuable car you want your brother to have, you may be out of luck without a will in place. Intestate succession laws in South Carolina dictate who gets what in your family. If you don't want the State to decide who will inherit your assets, forming a will with the help of an estate planning lawyer in Greenwood, SC, is necessary.
Another reason to have a will is to help care for and protect your family if you pass away suddenly. This is true even if you consider yourself to be "too young" to have a will. If you're the parent of a minor and you die intestate, they will inherit your estate according to South Carolina law. However, this often means your child owns an interest in your home. That opens them up to intrusion from probate court. It also means a Guardian Ad Litem will be involved in your affairs to question the choices of your surviving family members, whether you like it or not.
By having a last will and testament in place, you have the chance to nominate a guardian for your child in the event that you pass.
You've probably seen ads for easy or "fill-in-the-blank" legal forms across the internet, promising low costs and easy will creation. Unfortunately, using these boilerplate forms is highly risky and may end up hurting your loved ones more than helping them. That's because when an estate planning attorney in Greenwood, SC, is not present to prepare your will, you may receive a document that is inadequate, ambiguous, or even invalid by law.
At Lauren Taylor Law, we have found many issues with "DIY" wills, including the following:
Conflicting Verbiage: When using a "DIY" will, you've got to make choices on the form that often conflict, which can lead to ambiguity in your will.
Ambiguous Language: The language found within "fill-in-the-blank" wills typically includes less-than-clear verbiage. When a judge is unable to decipher the instructions in your will, it can lead to long, costly probate problems.
Outdated Info: South Carolina laws change often. Changes in the law can have a dramatic effect on the terms of your will, especially because online forms are often outdated from the very beginning.
Not Specific to South Carolina: As is the case with any state, local laws must be taken into account when creating your will, because state law governs several facets of estate planning. Many "DIY" wills are thrown out in probate court because they are generic and not specific to South Carolina estate laws.
Insufficient Instructions: Many people using boilerplate legal documents are uninformed about estate and probate laws. When it comes to preparing legal documents like wills, there is no substitute for the guidance you receive from a lawyer. Only a certified lawyer has the knowledge and experience to provide you with reliable advice and instructions. The instructions included with "DIY" wills lack true advice from a lawyer, rendering them nearly useless.
In life, there are no guarantees as to how long we'll be around to enjoy time with our families. That's why planning your estate is so important: to provide for those who mean the most to you. As your estate planning attorneys, our job is to ensure your family and assets are protected under South Carolina law. We take that job very seriously.
If you're looking for experienced, professional help drafting your last will and testament - one that truly reflects your wishes - look no further than Lauren Taylor Law. Our team is dedicated to the best interests of you and your family and is committed to providing sound legal advice, no matter the value of your estate.
Greenwood County, SC – Drivers across Greenwood County are being urged to slow down and stay alert Monday morning as melting snow and ice refreeze on roadways, particularly on bridges and in shaded areas.According to the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, changing overnight temperatures following the weekend’s winter weather have created conditions where water left on roads may freeze again. Officials warned that bridges, overpasses, and areas that receive little sunlight are especially vulnerable to...
Greenwood County, SC – Drivers across Greenwood County are being urged to slow down and stay alert Monday morning as melting snow and ice refreeze on roadways, particularly on bridges and in shaded areas.
According to the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, changing overnight temperatures following the weekend’s winter weather have created conditions where water left on roads may freeze again. Officials warned that bridges, overpasses, and areas that receive little sunlight are especially vulnerable to black ice early Monday.
While sunshine returned to the area this morning, law enforcement officials emphasized that clear skies do not eliminate roadway hazards. Refreezing can occur even after snow and ice appear to have melted, catching drivers off guard during the morning commute.
The Sheriff’s Office encouraged motorists to reduce speeds, increase following distance, and remain cautious when approaching bridges or shaded stretches of road. Drivers are also advised to avoid sudden braking or sharp turns if icy patches are encountered.
Greenwood County saw winter precipitation over the weekend, with fluctuating temperatures contributing to icy conditions on secondary roads and less-traveled routes. Officials say conditions may improve later in the day as temperatures continue to rise, but the early morning hours pose the greatest risk.
Residents are also reminded to allow extra travel time, especially when commuting to work or school, and to check local traffic updates before heading out. Anyone who encounters hazardous road conditions is encouraged to report them to local authorities.
No widespread road closures were announced Monday morning, but officials said they will continue monitoring conditions and respond as needed to ensure public safety.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
GREENVILLE, S.C. —School districts in South Carolina are announcing schedules for Monday, Feb. 2 after the snowstorm this weekend.For the latest weather report, click here. | For a full list of closing, delays, click here. Keep up with what's happening around our area by downloading the WYFF News 4 app on the App Store or Google Play.(If nothing is under your county that means they have not announced yet. We will u...
GREENVILLE, S.C. —
School districts in South Carolina are announcing schedules for Monday, Feb. 2 after the snowstorm this weekend.
For the latest weather report, click here. | For a full list of closing, delays, click here.
Keep up with what's happening around our area by downloading the WYFF News 4 app on the App Store or Google Play.
(If nothing is under your county that means they have not announced yet. We will update as learn more.)
Due to the winter storm anticipated to impact our area this weekend, Abbeville County School District will have an eLearning Day on Monday, February 2nd. All extracurricular activities and athletic events are canceled Saturday, January 31st through Monday, February 2nd.This decision was made to ensure the safety of our students and staff. The district will continue to consult with local officials as we make further decisions regarding school next week. We will share all updates through our communications system, website, and social media channels.
Due to unsafe road conditions, all Anderson County School Districts will hold an eLearning Day on Monday, February 2.
Tomorrow, Monday, February 2, 2026, will be an e-learning day for all CCSD students. This is due to the safety concerns posed by road conditions. All district employees will work from home as well.
Monday and Tuesday will be eLearning days. All activities canceled.
Greenville County Schools is on eLearning Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3. Schools and office buildings will be closed, and all activities, including athletic events and field trips, are canceled. This decision was made based on current snow and ice, forecasted freezing temperatures, which may result in continued unsafe road conditions, and the significant amount of work needed to clear campus entries and driveways once it’s safe for crews to do so. A decision about Wednesday will be made Tuesday afternoon. Because we are an approved eLearning district, the day will not have to be made up, so long as instruction is provided to students. Find eLearning Information and Resources on the District website
Greenwood School District 50 announced t that Monday, February 2nd, will be an eLearning day for the district.
On Monday, February 2, students will not report to school. Staff will not report to work unless directed by their supervisor. Students will complete eLearning assignments at home in accordance with district eLearning expectations. Student Chromebooks K5 - 8 can be used during the weekend from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. and again beginning on Monday, February 2nd at 8 a.m. Attendance will be recorded in accordance with district eLearning procedures.
No decisions have been made regarding our operation status on Tuesday, February 3. District officials will continue to closely monitor weather conditions throughout the weekend and Monday to determine operations for Tuesday. Please continue to stay connected to our website, social media pages, and local media outlets for weather and operations updates.
Ware Shoals School District 51
The snow is beautiful, but conditions require us to move to an eLearning day on February 2, 2026.
Greenwood County 52: Monitoring and considers eLearning for Monday but not decision has been made.
Laurens County 55: elearning for Monday, Feb. 2: Meal and devices will go home on Friday.
Laurens County 56: Based on the National Weather Service forecast of a wintry mix and severe cold with refreeze, Laurens County School District 55 will transition to eLearning on Monday, February 2, 2026. Teachers will send home eLearning expectations on Monday by 9 AM.
Due to significant snowfall and continued hazardous road conditions, the School District of Oconee County will observe an eLearning day on Monday, February 2nd. Additional updates will be shared as decisions are made.
Due to hazardous travel conditions following this weekend’s winter weather, the School District of Pickens County (SDPC) will operate on eLearning on Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
District 1
Spartanburg One will hold an E-Learning Day on Monday, February 2, 2026. This decision was made based on current snow and ice, along with forecasted freezing temperatures that could lead to continued unsafe road conditions. All afterschool activities and events scheduled for Monday are canceled.
District 2
This weekend’s snow storm has prompted us to make Monday, February 2 an eLearning Day in our District. Your students’ schools will be in touch regarding assignments. Additionally, all after-school activities and athletics have been cancelled for tomorrow.
District 3
Spartanburg School District Three will be closed Monday, February 2, 2026. This will be an eLearning Day. All afterschool and athletic events are canceled.
District 4
eLearning day for students
District 5
Due to snow-covered roads, hazardous driving conditions, and extremely cold temperatures, all Spartanburg District Five schools and offices will be closed Monday. Monday will be an eLearning day for students. All extracurricular activities and events are cancelled.
District 6
As you know, significant snowfall continues to impact our community. This message probably comes as no surprise that Monday, February 2, 2026 will be an E-Learning Day. All after-school activities, including our February School Board Meeting, have also been canceled. Please stay safe and continue to monitor our school communication outlets for updates. We truly appreciate your flexibility as we navigate this unusually active winter weather season.
District 7
eLEARNING Day Announced for Monday, February 2Thanks to our latest round of REAL snow, District 7 will hold an eLearning day on Monday February 2 All after school activities and events are also cancelled. We will be monitoring conditions to let you know a decision about Tuesday by early Monday afternoon.
eLearning Day for Monday, February 2, 2026
Clemson University
The University will conduct e-learning activities on Monday, Feb. 2.
Lander University
Due to the impacts of the weekend snowstorm across the region, Lander officials have announced that all classes for Monday, Feb. 2, will be conducted in a virtual, asynchronous format. Students should check Blackboard or their campus email for further instructions from faculty regarding their assignments.
Tri-County Technical College
TCTC will be closed on Monday, February 2 due to inclement weather. No in-person or virtual classes will be held.
SC State
SC State to open at noon on Monday, morning classes canceled
Greenwood County, SC – Residents across Greenwood County are being urged to prepare as winter weather appears to be moving into the area, raising concerns about hazardous travel conditions and possible power outages.According to the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, forecasts suggest cold temperatures and the potential for snow and icy conditions, which could impact roads, utilities, and vulnerable populations. Officials shared a public safety message Tuesday reminding residents to take early precautions ...
Greenwood County, SC – Residents across Greenwood County are being urged to prepare as winter weather appears to be moving into the area, raising concerns about hazardous travel conditions and possible power outages.
According to the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office, forecasts suggest cold temperatures and the potential for snow and icy conditions, which could impact roads, utilities, and vulnerable populations. Officials shared a public safety message Tuesday reminding residents to take early precautions rather than waiting for conditions to worsen.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized checking on elderly neighbors and family members to ensure they are safe and warm, particularly those who may rely on space heaters or alternative heating sources. Officials also advised residents to stock emergency supplies, including bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and basic medical necessities.
Heater safety was another major focus of the warning. Authorities reminded residents to keep heaters away from flammable materials and to ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are properly installed and working. Improper heating use is a leading cause of winter house fires, especially during extended cold spells.
Drivers are also being asked to use caution if snow or ice develops. Slick roads and untreated surfaces can increase the risk of crashes, particularly during early morning and overnight hours when temperatures are lowest. Residents are encouraged to dress in layers, avoid unnecessary travel during icy conditions, and stay informed through local weather updates and official alerts.
The Sheriff’s Office also invited community members to engage by sharing their predictions on whether snow will fall and how much accumulation Greenwood County might see.
Officials say additional updates may be issued as forecasts become clearer.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
GREENVILLE, S.C. —School districts and universities in South Carolina are announcing schedules for Wednesday after the impactful winter storm hit this weekend.For the latest weather report, click here. | For a full list of closing, delays, click here. Keep up with what's happening around our area by downloading the WYFF News 4 app on the App Store or Google Play.Abbeville CountyAbbeville County Scho...
GREENVILLE, S.C. —
School districts and universities in South Carolina are announcing schedules for Wednesday after the impactful winter storm hit this weekend.
For the latest weather report, click here. | For a full list of closing, delays, click here.
Keep up with what's happening around our area by downloading the WYFF News 4 app on the App Store or Google Play.
Abbeville County School District will operate on a two hour delay on Wednesday, January 28th.
All Anderson County Districts will observe an eLearning Day for Wednesday, January 28.
CCSD will hold an E-Learning Day, Wednesday, January 28. All afterschool athletic events and activities scheduled for Wednesday have also been cancelled.
Greenwood 50
Our district will return to a normal schedule tomorrow, January 28, 2026. Thank you to our families and staff for your patience and support as we worked through the impacts of the winter storm.
Ware Shoals School District 51
After careful inspection of roads and bridges across our district, we are announcing that we will return to regular schedule tomorrow.
Greenwood 52
Greenwood School District 52 will return to a normal school and work schedule tomorrow, Wednesday, January 28, 2026. All schools will be open, and all classes, activities, and events will take place as scheduled.
Laurens District 55:
Laurens County School District 55 will operate on a two-hour delay on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Laurens County School District 56:
All District schools and offices will open 2 hours later than normal tomorrow. Buses will run and pick-up times will be 2 hours later as well!
The School District of Oconee County will observe an eLearning day on Wednesday, January 28th.
The School District of Pickens County (SDPC) will operate on eLearning on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, due to hazardous travel conditions.
Spartanburg School District One
Due to hazardous driving conditions that remain across much of our community, all Spartanburg One schools will have an E-Learning Day on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Spartanburg School District Two
Wednesday, January 28 will be an e-Learning Day.
Spartanburg School District Three
Spartanburg School District Three will operate on an eLearning Day tomorrow, Wednesday, January 28. All afterschool and athletic events are canceled.
Spartanburg School District Four
All district four schools will operate as an eLearning day for students on Wednesday.
District Five Schools of Spartanburg County
Wednesday will be an eLearning day for students on Wednesday.
Spartanburg County School District Six
District Six will remain on E-Learning through Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Spartanburg School District 7
After carefully assessing road conditions this afternoon, District 7 is announcing an eLearning Day for Wednesday, January 28.
UCSD will observe an eLearning Day on Wednesday, January 28.
Clemson University
Clemson will resume normal operations on Wednesday, Jan. 28.
Bob Jones University
The university will reopen Wednesday!
Tri-County Technical College
Tri-County Technical College will resume normal schedule on Wednesday, January 28.
Anderson University:
Anderson University will resume normal campus operations on Wednesday, January 28.
Lander University:
In-person classes will resume Wednesday, Jan. 28.