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Estate Planning Attorney inGreer, SC

Did you know that one in two U.S. citizens have yet to create a plan for their estate? Just about everyone knows they need to get their affairs in order, but most people procrastinate when it comes to estate planning. It's an uncomfortable subject to think about. After all, nobody wants to ponder their death and what happens to their assets when they pass. However, working with an estate planning lawyer in Greer, SC, protects you, your loved ones, and your assets, both while you're alive and after you have died. There isn't a perfect time to plan your estate, but there is a right time and that time is now.

We understand that there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution to your estate planning needs. That's why, at Cobb Hammett Law Firm, we make a concerted effort to speak with our clients personally so that we can create an estate plan that is as unique as they are. Our estate plans are comprehensive, cost-effective, and catered to you. That way, your family is provided if you are incapacitated or pass away.

At the end of the day, our goal is to make sure that every one of our clients leaves our office feeling less stressed and more informed. Peace of mind is valuable currency these days. Why worry about the future of your loved ones when you can use South Carolina law to ensure their stability?

Many of the clients in Greer, SC that walk through our doors have significant questions that require serious answers. They're filled with doubt, stress, and worry. They're worried about their children, their spouse, their relatives, or all the above. They ask questions like:

  • How much does estate planning cost?
  • What kind of results can I expect?
  • How long will this process take?

If these questions sound familiar, know that you are not alone. At Cobb Hammett Law Firm, we have worked with hundreds of clients just like you. Sometimes, these clients are unsatisfied with their current estate planning attorney in Greer, SC. Other times, they have been served with confusing papers or documents that leave them feeling overwhelmed. In either case, clients come to our office knowing they need to manage what is often a sudden, foreign situation.

The good news? We sit down with all new clients for an hour at no extra cost. We do so to get a basic sense of their situation and help steer them in the right direction. That way, they can leave our office feeling a little wiser and a lot better about the future.

Our firm specializes in several areas of estate planning and family law, including:

  • Estate Planning
  • Last Will and Testament
  • Living Wills
  • Heath Care Power of Attorney
  • Living Wills
  • Irrevocable Trusts
  • Revocable Trusts
  • Retirement Trusts
  • Special Needs Trusts

The Cobb Hammett
Difference

At Cobb Hammett, LLC, estate planning is like second nature to us. Having worked hundreds upon hundreds of cases, we have the knowledge and experience to assist with all the estate planning needs that you or your family have.

As our client, you will always work directly with your attorney. We do not pass cases off to paralegals or junior associates. Because your concerns and questions don't end when our office closes, we encourage our clients to contact us at any time.

Because we limit the number of cases we accept, we have the time and resources to truly dedicate ourselves to each of our clients. Unlike some competitors, we care about the outcome of every case because we know that our clients' future depends on it.

Estate Planning Attorney Greer, SC The-Cobb-Dill-Hammett-Difference
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What Our Clients Say

What is Estate Planning in
Greer, SC?

The word "estate" might make you think of a sprawling mansion in the French countryside. The truth is, you don't have to be rich to have an estate. In fact, most people already have an estate. An estate comprises the assets that a person owns like cars, bank accounts, real estate, businesses, and other possessions. Everyone's estate is different, but we all have one thing in common: none of us can take our estates with us when we die. When that does eventually happen, you will need legal instructions that state who gets what from your estate in plain terms.That, in a nutshell, is estate planning building a framework in advance that names the organizations or people that should receive your assets after you die. Planning your estate now helps make life much easier for your family down the line.

Estate Planning Lawyer Greer, SC
A good estate plan covers more than fiscal assets, however. A comprehensive
estate plan should include the following:
  • If you have children who are minors, instructions as to who will be their guardian when you die.
  • Long-term care insurance if you suffer from an extended injury or illness.
  • Instructions that dictate what happens to you and your financial affairs if you become incapacitated before death.
  • Instructions on the transfer of your business after retirement, incapacity, disability, or death.
  • Instructions on how to provide for loved ones who might need help managing money or who need protection from creditors.
  • Probate and tax avoidance that help minimize court fees, taxes, and legal fees.
  • Planning Medicaid payments.
  • Instructions that help complete or update beneficiary designations.
  • Assist family members who have special needs without disqualifying them from government benefits.

Contrary to popular belief, estate planning isn't just for adults who are approaching retirement age. Estate planning is for everyone. After all, we're all getting older, and none of us know exactly when it will be our time to go.

The Basics of Estate Planning
in Greer, SC

Although estate planning can be complicated, a well-rounded plan makes a huge difference in what is left to your beneficiaries. Before you start planning your estate, it's important to know a few common topics that may arise as you detail your needs.

1.

Working with a Tax Advisor and Estate Planning
Attorney in Greer, SC

Working with a veteran estate planning lawyer is a no-brainer, but you should consider working with a tax advisor too. Your attorney's role is to help guide you through the creation of your estate planning documents. Common documents include your will, health care directives, and power of attorney. Your tax advisor will help guide you through tax issues associated with your estate planning needs.

In this relationship, you make the decisions while your attorney and tax advisor help you understand and think through the options you're considering. As a team, they will help you state your wishes clearly while minimizing mistakes and adjusting your plans as they change. Because significant savings can result from thorough, informed planning, you should seriously consider working with a tax advisor in addition to your estate planning attorney.

Law Firm Greer, SC
2.

Maximizing
Your Estate

If there were one overriding theme of estate planning, it would be maximizing what you plan to leave behind. Thinking through how each of your assets will be distributed is crucial to your estate. Your decisions may change depending on the type of asset, its size, how old you are, and several other factors. With an attorney on your side, you will gain a thorough understanding of what actions you should take to care for your family while minimizing expenses like taxes and court fees.

Estate Planning Law Greer, SC
3.

Inheritance, Estate,
and Gift Taxes

One of the biggest parts of maximizing what you're leaving behind is to minimize taxes. Federal taxes on estates and gifts are incredibly high. Both forms of taxes usually have exemption limits, which means you can give up to a specific amount without being taxed. Your lawyer can achieve that by using the gift tax exemption to move assets while you are still alive. This strategy maximizes how much your beneficiaries will receive.

Inheritance taxes are often based on the value of your estate and paid prior to asset distribution to your beneficiaries.

Estate Planning Attorney Greer, SC

Choosing the Executor of Your Will

The executor of your estate plays a key role in your affairs. Their responsibilities include carrying out the terms of your will and seeing the estate settlement process through until the end. Obviously, such a role demands a qualified person. Choosing your executor isn't an easy decision. The person you select should be great at managing money, be savvy financially, and show an ability to be patient. That's because the executor is tasked with:

  • Collecting Your Assets
  • Paying Outstanding Bills
  • Submitting Tax Returns
  • Petitioning the Court for Documents
  • Distributing Assets to Your Beneficiaries

If the person that you choose as executor is inexperienced with the estate settlement process, it is recommended that they lean on an estate planning attorney in Greer, SC for guidance. It should be noted that you may appoint more than a single executor to your estate. This is common when two individuals have complementary personalities or skill sets.

The Benefits of Estate Planning
in Greer, SC

One of the biggest benefits of planning your estate is the peace of mind it brings to you and your family. With the help of our expert estate planning attorneys, you have the power to protect your assets, privacy, and children's welfare. You can also potentially save money on taxes or even avoid probate. By having your wishes legally documented before death or incapacity, you can minimize any impact on your beneficiaries and take control of your legacy. Without a comprehensive estate plan, you're leaving the future of your loved ones in the hands of the South Carolina court system.

With an estate plan in place, you can plan for incapacity by using a power of attorney or advanced medical directives. Doing so relieves your loved ones of the burden of asking the court for the authority to fulfill your wishes.

At Cobb Hammett Law Firm, we are committed to helping you prepare for both the expected and unexpected through years of experience and a fierce dedication to our clients. From establishing trusts to designing business succession plans, we are here to fight for you.

At Cobb Hammett we offer a "Will Package" that includes 4 necessary documents.

If a husband and wife each purchase reciprocating will packages we give a discount. Reciprocating just means the husband names the wife and the wife names the husband. Those four documents are:

  • Last will and testament
  • Healthcare power of attorney
  • Durable power of attorney
  • living will

Common Documents Included
in Your Estate Plan

As mentioned above, everyone's estate planning needs will be different. However, most plans include one or more of the following documents:

1.

Will

Your will is an essential piece of documentation and is often considered the cornerstone of a proper estate plan. Generally speaking, your will is a document that dictates the distribution of your assets after your death. Having an iron-clad will is one of the best ways to make sure that your wishes are communicated clearly. As is the case with most estate planning, it is highly recommended that you work with an estate planning attorney in Greer, SC, to create and update your will.

The contents of a will typically include:

  • Designation of the executor, who is responsible for adhering to the provisions of your will.
  • Designation of beneficiaries the people who will be inheriting your assets
  • Instructions that dictate how and when your beneficiaries will receive assets.
  • Instructions that assign guardianship for any minor children.

Without a will in place, the State of South Carolina will decide how to distribute assets to your beneficiaries. Allowing the state to distribute your assets is often an unfavorable route to take, since the settlement process may not include what you had in mind for your survivors. Having a will drafted that reflects your wishes will prevent such a situation from happening.

Estate Planning Lawyer Greer, SC
2.

Living Will

Despite its name, a living will does not instruct your survivors on what assets go where. Also called an advanced directive, your living will allows you to state your end-of-life medical wishes if you have become unable to communicate. This important document provides guidance to family members and doctors and solidifies certain issues like whether you should be resuscitated after an accident.

For example, it's common to direct that palliative care (care to decrease pain and suffering) always be administered if needed. Conversely, you may state that certain measures are not allowed, like CPR.

Law Firm Greer, SC
3.

Trusts

Traditionally, a trust is used to minimize estate taxes and maximize other benefits as part of a well-rounded estate plan. This fiduciary agreement lets a trustee hold your assets on behalf of your beneficiaries. There are many ways to arrange a trust to specify when and how your assets are distributed.

With a trust in place, your beneficiaries can avoid going to probate. That means they may be able to gain access to your assets quicker than when they are transferred with a standard will. Assets placed in a trust can pass outside of probate, which will save you and your family time, money, and stress.

There are two distinct trust categories that you should be aware of: revocable and irrevocable.

Estate Planning Law Greer, SC

Revocable Trust:

Also called a living trust, a revocable trust helps assets circumvent probate. With this trust, you can control your assets while you are still alive. These trusts are flexible and may be dissolved at any point in time. This type of trust becomes irrevocable upon your death. Revocable trusts can help you avoid the pitfalls of probate but be aware that they are usually still taxable.

Irrevocable Trust:

This kind of trust transfers assets out of your estate so that they are not taxed and do not have to go through probate. However, once an irrevocable trust has been executed, it may not be altered. That means that once you establish this kind of trust, you lose control of its assets and cannot dissolve the trust. If your primary goal is to avoid taxes on your estate, setting up an irrevocable could be a wise choice.

When drafted with the help of an estate planning lawyer in Greer, SC, your trust can also:

Protect Your Legacy:

When constructed properly, a trust can protect your estate from your heirs' creditors. This can be a huge relief for beneficiaries who might need to brush up on money management skills.

Privacy and Probate:

Probate records are made available for public consumption. With a trust, you may have the choice of having your assets pass outside of probate court so that they remain private. In the process, you may also save money that you would lose to taxes and court fees.

Control Wealth:

Because you can specify the exact terms of a trust, you have more control over who receives your assets and when they receive them. As an example, you can set up a revocable trust so that your assets are attainable while you're alive. When you pass, remaining assets are distributed, even in complex situations involving children from multiple marriages.

The Top Estate Planning Law Firm in the Lowcountry

If you know that you need to provide for your family and loved ones after your death, it's time to develop your estate plan. With Cobb Hammett Law Firm by your side, planning your estate doesn't have to be difficult. However, it does need to be accurate and executed exactly to your wishes something that we have been helping clients achieve for years. Don't leave your legacy up to chance contact our office today and secure your future generations.

CONTACT US

Latest News in Greer, SC

‘Ringleader’ already in prison for multimillion SC Medicaid scheme receives more prison time

GREER, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The United States Attorney’s Office said a Greer man has been sentenced to federal prison for wire fraud and money laundering related to CARES Act fraud.Officials said 54-year-old Jonathan Wade Sumter will serve 80 months in prison, followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.According to the US Attorney’s Office, evidence revealed that between June 2020 and Jan. 2022, Sumter, his twin brother Jason Elijah Sumter, and Gerothia McCullough came up with a scheme to defraud th...

GREER, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - The United States Attorney’s Office said a Greer man has been sentenced to federal prison for wire fraud and money laundering related to CARES Act fraud.

Officials said 54-year-old Jonathan Wade Sumter will serve 80 months in prison, followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.

According to the US Attorney’s Office, evidence revealed that between June 2020 and Jan. 2022, Sumter, his twin brother Jason Elijah Sumter, and Gerothia McCullough came up with a scheme to defraud the Paycheck Protection Plan and Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs by applying for funds on behalf of sham or defunct companies.

Officials went on to say that Jonathan and the others submitted applications containing phony company expenses, employee wage statements, and other false documents on behalf of the following companies:

Using these fraudulent applications, they obtained over $1.8 million of EIDL and PPP payments, officials said.

“Jonathan Sumter was the ringleader and submitted the applications on behalf of and with the permission of the others,“ the US Attorney’s Office said. ”When the loans were funded, the three split the proceeds.”

Officials mentioned that Sumter’s sentence will run concurrently with a 92-month sentence he was already serving for a 2023 federal conviction for health care fraud.

To recover ill-gotten gains from the defendants, officials said Jonathan Wade Sumter was ordered to pay $1,802,741 in restitution. Jason Elijah Sumter was ordered to pay $739,786 in restitution and he was ordered to forfeit a parcel of real property in Orangeburg County. Gerothia McCullough was ordered to pay $478,366 in restitution and she was ordered to forfeit a 2018 GMC Canyon.

Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with FOX Carolina. For more free content like this, .

Southern Gates Fence Co. Brings Privacy Fence Installation to Greer, SC as Demand Grows for Secure Backyard Fencing

Southern Gates Fence Co. highlights privacy fence installation services in Greer, SC for homeowners seeking secure, attractive, and functional backyard fencing solutions.Southern Gates Fence Co. is expanding its focus on privacy fence installation in Greer, SC as more homeowners look for secure backyard fencing that improves privacy, safety, and curb appeal. The company provides residential fencing solutions designed to help property owners create more functional and private outdoor spaces with wood and vinyl fence options tailored to...

Southern Gates Fence Co. highlights privacy fence installation services in Greer, SC for homeowners seeking secure, attractive, and functional backyard fencing solutions.

Southern Gates Fence Co. is expanding its focus on privacy fence installation in Greer, SC as more homeowners look for secure backyard fencing that improves privacy, safety, and curb appeal. The company provides residential fencing solutions designed to help property owners create more functional and private outdoor spaces with wood and vinyl fence options tailored to their needs.

Greer, SC - Southern Gates Fence Co. is increasing its focus on privacy fence installation in Greer, SC as more homeowners seek secure backyard fencing that adds privacy, improves property boundaries, and supports more comfortable outdoor living. Through its growing local presence, Southern Gates Fence Co. is helping residential customers in Greer find fencing solutions that combine function, durability, and curb appeal.

Growing Demand for Secure Backyard Fencing in Greer, SC

Homeowners across Greer are placing greater value on outdoor privacy and residential security. As backyards continue to serve as spaces for family gatherings, pets, relaxation, and day-to-day living, the need for dependable fencing has become more relevant for many local properties.

This demand is contributing to increased interest in secure backyard fencing in Greer, SC, particularly among homeowners looking for practical ways to create more private outdoor environments. Privacy fencing can help reduce outside visibility, define lot lines, and provide a stronger sense of enclosure for residential spaces.

About Privacy Fence Installation in Greer, SC

For many property owners, privacy fence installation in Greer, SC is more than a visual upgrade. It is a long-term improvement that can support security, enhance outdoor comfort, and help homeowners make better use of their yards.

Southern Gates Fence Co. provides access to privacy fence installation options designed for residential needs. Whether a homeowner is planning a new fence for a backyard, replacing an aging structure, or evaluating ways to improve both privacy and appearance, professional installation plays an important role in the final result.

A well-planned privacy fence can also complement the style of a home while offering practical day-to-day value. In growing residential areas, that combination of form and function continues to make privacy fencing a preferred upgrade.

Wood and Vinyl Privacy Fence Options for Greer Homeowners

Material selection remains one of the most important parts of any fencing project. Homeowners in Greer, SC often consider wood and vinyl among the most popular choices for privacy fencing.

Wood privacy fences are often selected for their traditional appearance, flexibility in design, and natural character. Vinyl privacy fences are frequently chosen for their clean look and lower-maintenance appeal. Both options can serve homeowners who want a fence that supports privacy while matching the layout and style of the property.

By offering custom solutions for different yard sizes, preferences, and residential needs, Southern Gates Fence Co. helps homeowners evaluate which type of privacy fence best suits their goals.

Why Southern Gates Fence Co. Is Expanding in Greer, SC

Southern Gates Fence Co. is bringing added attention to its privacy fence services in Greer in response to rising local demand. As more residents invest in outdoor living and home improvements, access to a dependable privacy fence company in Greer, SC becomes increasingly important.

The company’s local focus is intended to make it easier for homeowners to connect with a fence contractor in Greer, SC that understands the needs of residential properties. From selecting materials to planning layouts and installation details, Southern Gates Fence Co. aims to deliver fencing solutions that reflect both property function and homeowner preference.

How Privacy Fences Support Security, Comfort, and Curb Appeal

Privacy fences offer benefits that extend beyond basic enclosure. For many homeowners, they contribute to a safer backyard environment, support a greater sense of comfort, and improve the visual appeal of the property.

A professionally installed privacy fence can create more usable outdoor space while helping a home feel more complete. This is one reason interest in backyard privacy fencing continues to grow among Greer homeowners looking for practical and lasting property upgrades.

About Southern Gates Fence Co.

Southern Gates Fence Co. is a residential fencing company serving homeowners with customized solutions designed to improve privacy, functionality, and appearance. The company offers fencing services for property owners seeking dependable workmanship and tailored results for their outdoor spaces.

With a focus on residential fencing and privacy-oriented solutions, Southern Gates Fence Co. continues to support homeowners looking for a trusted local provider for fence installation projects in Greer and surrounding areas.

Homeowners interested in privacy fencing and backyard security solutions can visit Southern Gates Fence Co. to learn more about available services, explore material options, and request a quote. Southern Gates Fence Co. invites Greer homeowners to take the next step toward a more private, secure, and functional outdoor space.

Media ContactCompany Name: Southern Gates Fence Co.Contact Person: Paul AughtryEmail: Send EmailPhone: +18644141620City: SimpsonvilleState: South CarolinaCountry: United StatesWebsite: https://sgfenceco.com/

Dennis Carroll Ballentine

Dennis Carroll Ballentine, age 79, of Taylors, SC, went to be with the Lord on February 26, 2026.Born in Columbia, SC, he was the son of the late Ena Trussell Ballentine and the late Bernard Carroll Ballentine of Columbia, SC.Dennis graduated from A. C. Flora High School in Columbia and received his bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina. He served in Vietnam with the Mobile Riverine Force in the Mekong Delta where he received two Bronze Stars and the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat V. He received an honorab...

Dennis Carroll Ballentine, age 79, of Taylors, SC, went to be with the Lord on February 26, 2026.

Born in Columbia, SC, he was the son of the late Ena Trussell Ballentine and the late Bernard Carroll Ballentine of Columbia, SC.

Dennis graduated from A. C. Flora High School in Columbia and received his bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina. He served in Vietnam with the Mobile Riverine Force in the Mekong Delta where he received two Bronze Stars and the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat V. He received an honorable discharge after serving for four years with the United States Navy and later received the Quilt of Valor. He was a certified public accountant with S.D. Leidesdorf National CPA firm and then became Vice President of Finance with Hewitt Coleman and Associates. Later he owned his own CPA practice, Clarke and Ballentine, LLC, later renamed Ballentine and Hodges, LLC, before retiring in 2013. Since 1973 he was an active member of Taylors First Baptist Church, part of the church's security team, and an usher. He also served in various church ministries: he was a coach for a boys' basketball team, Royal Ambassador leader, marriage small group facilitator, Intercessory Prayer member, and Finance Committee member. He served on the Board for the Taylors Free Medical Clinic, served on the Board of the Paraclete Foundation, the Greenville Estate Planning Council, and the Finance Committee at the Poinsett Club. He supported World Vision and the North Greenville University Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund and served on the board of directors of the Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund. He also held membership in numerous professional and civic organizations.

He was predeceased by his brother, Doug Ballentine of Lilburn, GA.

Surviving are his wife of 56 years Mitsy Winburn Ballentine, of the home; his son, Representative Nathan Ballentine of Chapin, SC; his two precious grandchildren, JC and Emma of Chapin, SC; sister-in-law, Gail Ballentine of Auburn, GA; brother-in-law, John (Susan) Winburn of Greer, SC; brother-in-law, Rev. Bob (Kathy) Clarke of Alpharetta, GA; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

The family will receive friends in the Welcome Center at the church at 1:00 p.m. prior to the services. Services will be at 2 p.m. on March 3, 2026, at Taylors First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials may be made to Taylors First Baptist Church, 200 W. Main Street, Taylors, SC 29687, Taylors Free Medical Clinic, 400 W. Main Street, Taylors, SC 29687, or North Greenville University Christian Ministry Scholarship Fund, North Greenville University, P.O. Box 1892, Tigerville, South Carolina 29688.

Mackey Mortuary will be handling the arrangements.

DMA Industries Expands Operations With New Greer, SC Facility

DMA Industries opened a new 1.4 million-sq.-ft. facility in Greer, SC. The company said this strengthens its distribution and operational capabilities within South Carolina’s automotive corridor.According to DMA, the expansion supports faster speed-to-market and improved service performance for customers across the North American automotive aftermarket.Strategic Location and Trade AccessThe new facility is located less than four miles from the Inland Port of Greer, providing access to international shipping lanes...

DMA Industries opened a new 1.4 million-sq.-ft. facility in Greer, SC. The company said this strengthens its distribution and operational capabilities within South Carolina’s automotive corridor.

According to DMA, the expansion supports faster speed-to-market and improved service performance for customers across the North American automotive aftermarket.

Strategic Location and Trade Access

The new facility is located less than four miles from the Inland Port of Greer, providing access to international shipping lanes and major domestic trucking terminals. DMA said the site will operate as a Foreign Trade Zone facility and is C-TPAT compliant, supporting secure and efficient global trade operations.

According to the company, the Greer location enhances inbound and outbound logistics flexibility while supporting continued growth in regional distribution capacity.

Technology Investments and Warehouse Systems

DMA said the new facility will integrate several advanced systems to improve operational efficiency and accuracy. These include ultra-wideband inventory control tracking, camera-based visualization for put-away tracking, and an upgraded AI-supported proprietary warehouse management system.

“These advancements will provide service efficiencies while ensuring the highest levels of picking accuracy and on-time delivery,” said John Treece, chief executive officer of DMA Industries.

“This facility represents a pivotal step forward in our mission to be the most reliable partner in the automotive aftermarket,” Treece said. “By investing in the Greer region, we are not just increasing our square footage, we are improving our logistical speed-to-market and service execution.”

Supporting Continued Growth in South Carolina

DMA Industries is headquartered in Loris and operates five additional distribution centers in the state. The company said the Greer expansion continues its long-term investment in South Carolina and supports economic growth in the region.

“With this infrastructure in place, DMA is uniquely positioned to scale operations rapidly and increase efficiency while maintaining the service quality our customers expect,” said Fred Snow, president and chief operating officer.

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Estate Planning Attorney Greer, SC
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