Protect Your Family's Future with Expert Estate Planning

Estate Planning Attorney in Westminster, SC

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 Westminster, 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?

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If 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:

How much will estate planning cost me?
What will the results of this process be?
How long will it take me to plan my estate and put a will in place?

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.

The Lauren Taylor Law Estate Planning Difference

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:

Will Packages
Last Wills and Testaments
Living Wills

Power of Attorney
Asset Protection
Much More

The Importance of Estate Planning in South Carolina

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:

Automobiles
Real Estate
Bank Accounts

Valuable Possessions
Businesses
More

And that, in a nutshell, is what estate planning is all about - working with an estate planning attorney in Westminster, 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:

Specific instructions that identify beneficiary designations
Who will be the guardian of any minor children you may have
Instructions as to what happens if you're incapacitated prior to death
The type of long-term care insurance you have
Strategies to help your family avoid or minimize Probate fees and taxes
Instructions regarding the transfer of your business after death, disability, or retirement
Help for family members who struggle with money management
Medicaid payment planning
Instructions on how to help family members with special needs

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.

Our Estate Planning

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:

Last Will and Testament

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 Westminster, SC, ensures you get the outcomes both you and your loved ones prefer.

Power of Attorney

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.

Living Wills

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:

Healthcare Power of Attorneys
Power Over Wills
Durable Power of Attorneys

Deed Preparation
Full Estate Planning Packages

Estate Planning Tips in South Carolina

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.

Maximizing Your Estate

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 Westminster, SC, by your side, you'll learn about the pros and cons of your choices while minimizing court fees and taxes.

Selecting the Executor of Your Will in South Carolina

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:

Paying Outstanding Debts and Bills
Collecting Assets
Distributing Assets

Completing and Submitting Tax Returns
Petitioning the Court if Necessary

To ensure your executor upholds your instructions and wishes, ask that they use an estate planning attorney in Westminster, 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.

Is a Will Really Necessary in South Carolina?

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.

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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 Westminster, 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.

RiskThe Risks of Using "DIY" Wills

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 Westminster, 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.

What Clients Say About Us

Divorce Attorney for Ariane Cossette

★★★★★

I cannot recommend this firm highly enough! From the very beginning, Sydney and her team were professional, responsive, and incredibly steady throughout a very emotional and difficult process. I always felt informed, supported, and taken seriously. Every question I had was answered clearly, and communication was timely and thoughtful at every step. What stood out most was their ability to combine legal precision with genuine care. They navigated sensitive issues with calm, integrity, and clarity, and I always felt that my best interests were being protected. Even in moments of stress or uncertainty, they were present, reassuring, and incredibly competent. If you’re looking for a legal team that is not only highly skilled but also respectful, organized, and human in their approach, this is it. I’m deeply grateful for their guidance and professionalism.

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Clayton Burnette

★★★★★

Professional, responsive, and truly cares. Highly recommend.

Child Support Lawyer for Julianna Weeks

★★★★★

The attorneys there are hard working, caring, and great to work with!

Child Custody Attorney for Monica “Kincaid” Moore

★★★★★

When I went into Lauren Taylor Law and met Alex, she did not know what she was getting herself into. I took her an almost impossible divorce to get through and she tackled it with grace and compassion. Alex gave me my life back, she fought for me, for my kids, and for my freedom! I cannot say enough about how grateful I am for this firm! If you want someone who will listen and fight for you Alex is your girl!

Personal Injury Lawyer for Robin Bush

★★★★★

They are very friendly , knowledgeable,. They really explained and had patience with helping my sister navigate thru her will , power of attorney etc . We were not rushed . They made sure we understood everything .

Family Law for Nicole Sinnigen

★★★★★

Sydney Ford helped me with a post-divorce custody issue and couldn't recommend her and her law practice more. I especially valued that her and her team's responses were always very prompt, even to simpler questions or requests. Most importantly, I felt heard and appreciated how she handled our case. Thanks for everything Sydney (and Alexa).

Attorney for Amanda Davidson

★★★★★

Working with Sydney Ford has been a great experience. She has confidently and compassionately guided me through one of the most difficult chapters of my life. Sidney is a wonderful communicator, she takes the time to answer every question (and there have been plenty!) with patience, kindness, and clarity. I knew what to expect every step of the way and was never left wondering what comes next. Her professionalism and empathy set her apart, and her steady guidance has brought so much peace of mind throughout this process. I can’t recommend her highly enough to anyone in need of a knowledgeable, caring, and trustworthy divorce attorney.

Estate Planning for Linda Birnbaum

★★★★★

Embarking on the challenging journey of divorce after 39 years of marriage was no easy feat. However, Alex Saindon was a beacon of support, answering every question and thoroughly explaining every detail to my absolute satisfaction. Her expertise proved to be invaluable during this time. The entire team at the law firm has been incredibly supportive and helpful. I truly couldn't have asked for more! I have already recommended Lauren Taylor Law Firm to others, and I will continue to do so for anyone seeking outstanding representation.

Sexual Harassment Attorney for Ana Del Rio

★★★★★

Lauren’s law practice reflects a deep commitment to her clients and community, showing a thoughtful and caring approach to complex legal issues. Her extensive experience in criminal defense and family law shines through in every interaction, revealing a knowledgeable professional who genuinely puts people first. Lauren’s dedication to guiding clients through difficult times with clarity and compassion makes her an exceptional attorney to trust.

Lawyer for Devin Thigpen

★★★★★

Couldn't ask for better service from Gabriella Graham and Sydney Ford as my attorneys!

Divorce Attorney for Jeff Sutherland

★★★★★

I highly recommend the team at Lauren Taylor Law on Daniel Island! From our very first meeting, Gabriella made me feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the entire divorce process. She and Sydney were always available to answer my questions, explained every step clearly, and truly advocated for my best interests. Not only was the entire team of Gabriella, Sydney, and Rochelle incredibly knowledgeable and professional, but they were also compassionate and understanding during such a difficult time. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, I achieved a fair and favorable outcome. If you are looking for an attorney who genuinely cares and will fight for you, look no further!

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Haley Byrd

★★★★★

I was told by my ex that he thought we’d be “better off as friends.” in September 2024. At the time, I was going through probate for my dad’s estate. I asked the real estate attorney if she had any recommendations for a family court lawyer. She reached out to a Facebook group & LTL was the top recommended. So I filled out the online info form one night to see what my rights would be going through this divorce. Talking with Alex on the phone definitely made me nervous but after a big life changing event that expedited my need for an attorney to file, I met with Alex & was immediately at ease with her. She was kind & truly cared about me. Without Alex, I don’t think I’d be in such a good position after mediation. She has shown me what it’s like to take hold of your life after feeling like you have no control. She has empowered me not only as a woman but as a person. I seriously would not be the woman I am today if it weren’t for her. Thank you Alex for always being there for me & continuing to cheer me on in life. I couldn’t have gone through this chapter without you. She’s 10/10 would recommend. ????

Child Support Lawyer for Cameron Hyatt

★★★★★

This is my second time hiring Lauren Taylor Law, and my first time working with Alex, whom I am very grateful for as a client. She was so knowledgeable, patient, and exceedingly helpful to ensure my case was as smooth and straightforward as it could be. While I hope I don’t have need for a lawyer for a third time, I would happily go back to Lauren Taylor Law should I ever need to.

Child Custody Attorney for David McGuire

★★★★★

My wife and I recently worked with Lauren Taylor Law on a custody case regarding our four grandsons. Our Attorney (Alex Saindon) was exceptional! She is exceedingly bright and well versed in the law. She guided us through the process and clearly communicated our options and strengths of various positions. She communicates directly and with compassion. We HIGHLY recommend her!

Personal Injury Lawyer for Stephanie Foster

★★★★★

This group of amazing women walked me through one of the hardest experiences of my life. They were patient with me, well prepared and thoroughly explained everything so there were no surprises. They fought hard to make sure my future would be bright. I’m so grateful especially to Alex and Gabriella for representing me and being my voice. I highly recommend Lauren Taylor Law to anyone needing legal representation.

Family Law for Mesha

★★★★★

They were very caring and helped me get in to be able to understand the process because I was trying to do it on my own. I feel very confident and comfortable with them and I knew I was in good hands. They went above and beyond and I thank you so much and my lawyer was Alex S. Thank you, Alex and my divorce so easy and so rewarding.

Attorney for Anna Seel

★★★★★

This practice is very professional, efficient, and communicative. Alex was so easy to work with and quick to respond to any questions we had. We would highly recommend this practice and Alex!

Estate Planning for Nicole Abraham

★★★★★

Working with Alex has been such an amazing experience. She is kind, compassionate, extremely hard-working, and caring. Her work ethic is unmatched, and she consistently goes above and beyond for her clients. She knows what to say and how to say it when people are going through hard times. She is an incredible attorney, but also an incredible person. You can't get better than that!

Sexual Harassment Attorney for JAMES RUSTIN

★★★★★

They lady’s at this office are the best so knowledgeable and friendly and helpful. Gave me the greatest advice will definitely refer and continue to use best place in charleston

Lawyer for Zach

★★★★★

I couldn’t be more grateful to everyone at Lauren Taylor Law. Alex was amazing and explained every option so I could make the best decisions for me. The whole team was great and made a trying process much easier to manage, from setting up the initial consultation to walking me through next steps and reaching a conclusion I could be happy with moving forward.

Divorce Attorney for Mike M

★★★★★

I can’t say enough about these amazing women! Their communication throughout my case was incredible. I felt like I had a whole team of lawyers and was confident in this group from day 1. Their team approach played a large part in securing a very successful outcome. Thank you for everything!!

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Sherry Howard

★★★★★

I was listed as a witness for a friend of mine who was getting an annulment. These folks made us quite comfortable and it was done within minutes! Highly recommend you contact them!

Child Support Lawyer for Gary Smith

★★★★★

If you’re looking for a lawyer who truly cares about her clients and brings both heart and skill to the table, I wholeheartedly recommend Gabriella Graham.

Child Custody Attorney for Glenn Strovilas

★★★★★

After my mother‘s passing, I needed guidance on both family matters and setting up a new LLC. The council I received was incredibly helpful during a difficult time. The process of establishing a new business with smooth and efficient I would highly recommend this firm to anyone seeking reliable legal support.

Personal Injury Lawyer for Tim Conway

★★★★★

Incredibly professional service and representation

Rely on Lauren Taylor Law to Protect Your Family and Estate

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.

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West-Oak Football (2024) Schedule

Sign inWest-Oak WarriorsVarsity Football Westminster, SC392FollowersFollow24-25Overall4-8Region0-4 (5th)SC Rank1952024-25 V. FootballWest-Oak Football (2024) Schedule2024-25PrintOverall4-80.333 Win PctRegion0-45th AAA Region 1Home3-2Away1-6Neutral0-0PF183PA461Streak1W* Region** Playoffs*** TournamentDateOpponentResultGame Info8/23@...

West-Oak WarriorsVarsity Football Westminster, SC392Followers

24-25

Overall

4-8

Region

0-4 (5th)

SC Rank

195

2024-25 V. Football

West-Oak Football (2024) Schedule

2024-25

Overall4-80.333 Win Pct

Region0-45th AAA Region 1

Home3-2Away1-6Neutral0-0

PF183PA461Streak1W

* Region** Playoffs*** Tournament

Date	Opponent	Result	Game Info
8/23	@First Flight	W 12-6	Box Score
8/30	Non Varsity Opponent	W 63-14	Box Score
9/6	@Seneca	L 42-3	Box Score
9/13	@Franklin County	L 49-17	Box Score
9/20	@Landrum	L 48-0	Box Score
10/4	vsBelton-Honea Path*	L 55-6	Box Score
10/11	@Crescent*	L 56-7	Box Score
10/18	vsPendleton*	L 57-7	Box Score
10/25	@Walhalla*	L 62-0	Box Score
11/1	vsGreenville Hurricanes	W 26-3	Box Score
11/15	@Christ Church Episcopal**	L 42-2	Box Score
10/31	vsAnderson Christian	W 40-27	Box Score

PrintSchedule CorrectionScore CorrectionAll School Events

West-Oak High School 130 Warrior LnWestminster, SC 29693

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‘Goober’s a ham’: How this SC spaniel and owner stood out at the Westminster dog show

GEORGETOWN — The list of Grand Strand natives to make multiple appearances on the big stage of Madison Square Garden is a short one.Now add Goober the Sussex spaniel to that exclusive company.Following his appearance at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show's Feb. 2-3 Best in Show main event, owner Tara Darling-Lyon returned to Georgetown from New York City feeling like a proud parent while Goober stayed with his handler for a victory tour on the dog show circuit."He's the No. 1 Sussex spaniel in the coun...

GEORGETOWN — The list of Grand Strand natives to make multiple appearances on the big stage of Madison Square Garden is a short one.

Now add Goober the Sussex spaniel to that exclusive company.

Following his appearance at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show's Feb. 2-3 Best in Show main event, owner Tara Darling-Lyon returned to Georgetown from New York City feeling like a proud parent while Goober stayed with his handler for a victory tour on the dog show circuit.

"He's the No. 1 Sussex spaniel in the country for the second year," said Darling-Lyons, whose Tara Kennels has been breeding spaniels in Georgetown for 40 years. "A big part of it is Goober's attitude. He loves to show. He loves every aspect of it. He thinks of all the grooming as like a spa day."

Goober defended his Best of Breed title to represent the sporting class in the Best in Show at the historic Garden. Although he didn't win the overall award among the more than 2,500 qualifying dogs from over 200 breeds, Goober provided a highlight moment that elicited audible "awws" from the packed house.

Following Goober's moment in the spotlight to run around the arena, slow-motion replays on the Jumbotron showed his drooping face bouncing with each step, followed by a tongue lick that circled his entire nose. While some dogs are spooked by bright lights and crowd noise, he laps up the attention.

"He's a showman, for sure. He loves the crowd," said Darling-Lyon, who named him Whatchamacallit after the peanut-flavored candy bar but calls him Goober for his "goofy, sweet" personality.

"Goober's a ham. He thinks he's the king, and the crowd are his adoring people."

Darling-Lyon was his first fan, seeing something special in him even as a pup, and the dog show community agreed as Goober began to fetch a growing trophy collection. Now as a 5-year-old, reveling in the peak of his dog show days, Goober's resume includes a combined three Westminster Kennel Club and American Kennel Club Best of Breed championships and the title of Grand Champion Gold.

Despite Goober’s charming personality, Darling-Lyon said the criteria for judging is solely based on breed standards, a list of ideal traits and characteristics each dog must display. She also serves as a judge at dog shows and said Goober checks all the boxes of the bloodline's five Ls.

"Sussex spaniels should be long, low, level, liver-colored and have a lively tail, and Goober certainly has the last one in spades. He outwags every dog," she said. "They're almost the ideal dog because they're active when you want to be active or couch potatoes when you want to snuggle."

The Sussex spaniel has a flowing, feathery coat and a somber facial expression with sorrowful hazel eyes that defy its friendly temperament. In fact, the breed scores its highest marks for "affection with family" with five out of five stars, according to the American Kennel Club ratings.

Described by the AKC as "looking a bit like a cross between a cocker spaniel and a torpedo," the Sussex spaniel traces back to 18th century England, where pheasant hunters bred a small, sturdy bird dog to navigate the dense brush and hedgerows of the south coast countryside.

The result was a hunting dog and loyal companion described by the AKC as "placid, affectionate, even-tempered, true-blue, loyal … the Sussex Spaniel, a slow-but-steady hunter, and congenial housedog. His frowning expression is delightfully at odds with a typically cheerful nature."

While Goober is crossing the country for dog shows with handler Ingar Rismyhr, Darling-Lyon is bracing for a flood of interest in the breed following his appearance on the big stage. Winning at Westminster means traveling to dog shows as many as 180 times per year and a growing list of fans.

"It's huge for the Sussex spaniel," she said. "Westminster is different than every other dog show. There's a lot of prestige and pressure, so it's sort of like our Super Bowl. Every judge in the country is watching and sees who wins. It puts you on notice as the top dog."

Couple in their 70s found dead in South Carolina home

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Couple in their 70s found dead in South Carolina home WYFF 4 is your home for South Carolina breaking news and weather. For your latest South Carolina news and weather vi

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