843-936-6680
Request Consultation
Estate Planning Attorney inJohn's Island, 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 John's Island, 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 John's Island, 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 John's Island, 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.
Personal Injury for Ship Shape Deck Restoration and Wash
Corporate and Banking for Ship Shape Deck Restoration and Wash
Family Law for Jenifer Hagadorn
Real Estate Law for Jenifer Hagadorn
Estate Planning for Jenifer Hagadorn
Divorce Attorney for Josiah Myers
Personal Injury Attorney for Josiah Myers
Criminal Defense Attorney for Josiah Myers
Attorney for Sierra Jones
Car Accident for Sierra Jones
Personal Injury for Sierra Jones
Corporate and Banking for Cedric E
Family Law for Cedric E
Real Estate Law for Cedric E
Estate Planning for McKinleyAndDeana Kestner
Divorce Attorney for McKinleyAndDeana Kestner
Personal Injury Attorney for McKinleyAndDeana Kestner
Criminal Defense Attorney for Mindy Zhu
Attorney for Mindy Zhu
Car Accident for Jie Zheng
Personal Injury for Keely Burd
Corporate and Banking for El Y Yo
Family Law for Nando Y Esposa
Real Estate Law for AngiyNando
Estate Planning for Chris Wilkins
What is Estate Planning in
John's Island, 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.
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 John's Island, 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.
Working with a Tax Advisor and Estate Planning
Attorney in John's Island, 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.
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.
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.
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 John's Island, 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 John's Island, 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:
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 John's Island, 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.
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.
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.
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 John's Island, 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 USLatest News in John's Island, SC
Nearly 17 hours after first blaze, remote Johns Island home destroyed from subsequent fire
Caitlin Bellhttps://www.postandcourier.com/news/crime/johns-island-fire-feb-24/article_c9c3714d-db78-401e-aba7-ea80bfd0f7c3.html
JOHNS ISLAND — For local construction business magnate Tony Berenyi, his remote island home on a swath of land in the center of Bohicket Creek has been a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of greater Charleston.He’d never expected it to catch fire, let alone twice in one day.Around 17 hours after the two-story Hopkinson Plantation Island home first ignited the morning of Feb. 24, it lit up yet again. The second time was devastating. Only a few exterior walls of the home remain. The rest is ash.At 10 ...
JOHNS ISLAND — For local construction business magnate Tony Berenyi, his remote island home on a swath of land in the center of Bohicket Creek has been a pleasant respite from the hustle and bustle of greater Charleston.
He’d never expected it to catch fire, let alone twice in one day.
Around 17 hours after the two-story Hopkinson Plantation Island home first ignited the morning of Feb. 24, it lit up yet again. The second time was devastating. Only a few exterior walls of the home remain. The rest is ash.
At 10 p.m., neighbors called Berenyi to report a “bonfire” at his home. Photos sent to the newspaper from a resident who lives across Bohicket Creek showed a massive orange plume, billowing dark gray smoke which had been illuminated by the blaze.
“It makes no sense,” Berenyi said. “The house was saturated (with water).”
The fire was under control shortly after midnight Feb. 25, said Ryan Kunitzer, chief of the St. Johns Fire District.
The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are aiding in the probe to determine the cause, an upgrade in investigative efforts following the smaller blaze that had engulfed the home’s living room that morning.
Berenyi had allowed his daughter to stay at the remote island home by herself this past weekend, Berenyi told The Post and Courier by phone Feb. 25.
She’d built a fire in the living room fireplace the evening of Feb. 23. Berenyi’s daughter extinguished the flame before heading to bed.
The next morning, she awoke to screeching fire alarms.
As the sun rose over the marshland, firefighters were snaking a giant hose across the long, 5-foot-wide wooden footbridge that connects the island to mainland. It’s the only point of ground access to Berenyi’s home. Crews got the call around 6 a.m., and rushed to the scene.
Firefighters utilized the bridge, golf carts and a 38-foot pump boat to reach the scene, said Kunitzer.
The burn was completely extinguished around 10 a.m. Berenyi’s daughter was safe, so was the dog she’d brought along, her father said.
Around 17 hours later, the house ignited again in what Berenyi describes as an event that “defies logic.”
Berenyi owns Berenyi Consulting, an organization that provides architectural and engineering guidance on construction projects. He’d built the Johns Island home in 2002, Berenyi said. He and a friend own the entire eight-acre island.
Berenyi sent out his construction crew shortly after the morning blaze was extinguished. Then he personally checked out the home that afternoon. There was no evidence of any remaining embers or fire that he could see, he told the newspaper.
But by 11 p.m., Kunitzer’s fire crews were again on the scene, repeating the exact same efforts they’d done several hours prior.
The fire was under control shortly after midnight Feb. 25.
“I can’t speculate on arson,” Kunitzer told The Post and Courier. There could be several reasons why the home re-ignited, he added.
Berenyi doesn’t believe the second blaze was purposeful, either. He made a point to explain that he’ll collect no insurance money from this incident.
“That house has been a gift to many people in the Charleston community,” Berenyi said. It’s a spot frequented by friends and family when he’s not actively using it.
He laments the loss of photos of his mother and the Bronze Star medal he’d earned after military service, Berenyi told The Post and Courier. Ultimately, the loss of the items doesn’t outweigh his relief that no one was hurt.
“I’m gonna rebuild, and rebuild better,” he said.
Women Build on Johns Island draws 300 volunteers, could cut construction by two months
Jason Tighehttps://abcnews4.com/news/local/women-build-on-johns-island-draws-300-volunteers-could-cut-construction-by-two-months
JOHNS ISLAND, S.C. (WCIV) — Helping combat the Lowcountry’s affordable housing crisis is a multilevel effort.Recently, the City of Charleston and Charleston County launched new initiatives aimed at helping lower-income residents afford homeownership. The work is not limited to the government.On Johns Island this week, Sea Island Habitat for Humanity is hosting its annual Women Build event, giving volunteers a chance to help construct a home for future homeowner Carol Mack.The sound of steady construction fill...
JOHNS ISLAND, S.C. (WCIV) — Helping combat the Lowcountry’s affordable housing crisis is a multilevel effort.
Recently, the City of Charleston and Charleston County launched new initiatives aimed at helping lower-income residents afford homeownership. The work is not limited to the government.
On Johns Island this week, Sea Island Habitat for Humanity is hosting its annual Women Build event, giving volunteers a chance to help construct a home for future homeowner Carol Mack.
The sound of steady construction filled the lot where Mack’s home is taking shape. Teams of volunteers worked alongside skilled craftsmen to move the project forward. Mack said taking part in the build is “rewarding.”
Regional Habitat for Humanity organizations are working to help Mack and others bridge the funding gap that often prevents families from purchasing homes. Emily Speck, with Sea Island Habitat for Humanity, said the need is especially urgent in Charleston County.
“And we all know that that is a crisis, especially in Charleston County,” Speck said.
According to the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, nearly 90,000 families in the region spend about 30% of their income on housing costs.
Habitat for Humanity helps address that burden by setting mortgage terms designed to keep homes affordable. Speck said homeowners typically fall at or below 80% of the area median income, a range where affordable options can be difficult to find.
“The biggest thing for us is really that affordability,” Speck said. “Our homeowners fall within that 80% of median income. And really, depending on the families, that’s hard to find housing like that.”
Another goal is to place families in homes close to where they work.
READ MORE | "Habitat for Humanity merger aims to boost affordable home ownership in Charleston area."
Speck said advocacy is also part of the organization’s mission, whether that means traveling to Washington, D.C., or Columbia, South Carolina, or hosting community events.
“So advocating may look like going to D.C. or going to Columbia, but it’s also events like this,” Speck said. “It’s bringing the community out, showing them what we can all do together.”
About 300 volunteers are expected to participate in the build this week, a pace organizers say could shave nearly two months off construction time.
The project is expected to be completed in the spring.
“It’s something I’m going to own and look forward to,” Mack said.
A groundbreaking is also planned later this year for Sweetgrass Preserve, a 40-home development planned for Johns Island.
Johns Island, SC Luxury Real Estate Market Demonstrates Strength Into 2026
PR Newswirehttps://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/johns-island-sc-luxury-real-estate-market-demonstrates-strength-into-2026-302686655.html
A Resilient Luxury Market Driven by Limited Inventory and Buyer DemandJOHNS ISLAND, S.C., Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Pam Harrington Exclusives Real Estate reports that Johns Island, South Carolina continues to stand out as one of the Charleston region's most resilient luxury real estate markets, supported by limited inventory, protected land, and sustained buyer demand. The firm's Johns Island Specialist, Cortney Franklin, notes that as the 2026 market unfolds, indicators suggest continued stability and opportunity, particularly wi...
A Resilient Luxury Market Driven by Limited Inventory and Buyer Demand
JOHNS ISLAND, S.C., Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Pam Harrington Exclusives Real Estate reports that Johns Island, South Carolina continues to stand out as one of the Charleston region's most resilient luxury real estate markets, supported by limited inventory, protected land, and sustained buyer demand. The firm's Johns Island Specialist, Cortney Franklin, notes that as the 2026 market unfolds, indicators suggest continued stability and opportunity, particularly within the island's high-end residential sector.
High-End Properties Remain in Demand:
Luxury properties on Johns Island — including waterfront estates, gated golf communities, and private acreage — remain highly sought after despite broader national market fluctuations. Buyers are increasingly drawn to the island's blend of privacy, natural beauty, and proximity to historic Charleston and the beaches. Strict zoning regulations and limited new development reinforce long-term value, positioning Johns Island as a mature and enduring luxury market. View current luxury listings for sale.
2026 Market Outlook: Stability and Selective Appreciation:
Forecasts for 2026 indicate that while appreciation may moderate, demand for well-located, high-quality luxury homes remains strong. According to Pam Harrington Exclusives Real Estate:
The data underscores sustained buyer confidence in the island's high-end segment despite broader national market fluctuations.
Buyer preferences continue to emphasize turnkey residences, modern coastal design, and communities that offer both exclusivity and lifestyle amenities. Homes that demonstrate thoughtful architecture, quality construction, and long-term livability are projected to outperform the broader market.
Recent activity within Briars Creek, one of Johns Island's most exclusive gated communities, reflects these trends. Pam Harrington's successful sale of 4265 Wild Turkey Way, a luxury residence within this coastal enclave, underscores continued demand for refined homes in established luxury settings. Briars Creek is known for its championship golf course, expansive conservation lands, and low-density development, making it a premier destination for discerning buyers. 4121 Golf Cottage Lane is currently the best buy in the neighborhood, listed at $2,999,999.
As Buyer Expectations Rise and Appreciation Moderates, Expert Guidance Becomes Essential:
Navigating this competitive landscape is Cortney Franklin, who has been named the Pam Harrington Exclusives Johns Island Specialist. Franklin brings focused local expertise, strategic pricing insight, and access to Pam Harrington Exclusives elevated luxury marketing, delivering tailored representation for both buyers and sellers.
"Johns Island has developed into a highly sophisticated luxury market," said Franklin. "Today's buyers are informed and intentional, prioritizing privacy, quality, and long-term value. Strategic representation is critical to achieving successful outcomes. As the spouse of a Lowcountry custom home builder, I offer a distinct advantage to buyer and seller clients. My close connection to the building side provides valuable insight into construction quality, design decisions, and sustained market appeal."
As Charleston continues to attract lifestyle-driven buyers, Johns Island is expected to remain a cornerstone of the region's luxury real estate performance throughout 2026.
About Pam Harrington Exclusives Real Estate
Pam Harrington Exclusives is a local luxury real estate firm specializing in distinctive properties throughout Charleston and the Lowcountry, recognized for its market leadership and high-touch client service.
View current Johns Island luxury listings, or visit our website to explore all Johns Island homes for sale across every price point.
Pam Harrington Exclusives - (843) 768-3635 or visit the website. Equal Housing Opportunity. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
SOURCE Pam Harrington Exclusives, Inc.
more press release views with Request a Demo
City of Charleston sues Johns Island couple for $140,000 to cover alleged illegal dumping cleanup
David Sladehttps://www.postandcourier.com/news/johns-island-trash-barberry-city-charleston-lawsuit/article_9d1a4675-ae46-4f30-a389-f349ceb5feeb.html
JOHNS ISLAND — The owners of a Blackfish Road home dumped so much trash and debris on a city of Charleston-owned lot behind their house that it cost Charleston more than $140,000 to remove it all, according to a lawsuit.Now the city is suing Jose and Rosalinda Martinez for that amount and potentially more, saying they made the mess and should be held responsible. The complaint was filed Jan. 30.“I don’t know how I’m going to pay this,” said Jose Martinez, who told a reporter he’s a disabled m...
JOHNS ISLAND — The owners of a Blackfish Road home dumped so much trash and debris on a city of Charleston-owned lot behind their house that it cost Charleston more than $140,000 to remove it all, according to a lawsuit.
Now the city is suing Jose and Rosalinda Martinez for that amount and potentially more, saying they made the mess and should be held responsible. The complaint was filed Jan. 30.
“I don’t know how I’m going to pay this,” said Jose Martinez, who told a reporter he’s a disabled man in his late 50s. “It’s way, way too much.”
Martinez returned a Post and Courier reporter’s phone message left at a number listed for J & J Masonry Contracting, which is registered at the same Blackfish Road address in a residential subdivision on the north side of Maybank Highway.
Behind that property sits about six acres of city-owned vacant land where Charleston is working on the $5.8 million Barberry Woods Drainage Improvement Project. When work began on the project in 2025, the city discovered the construction debris and trash.
On aerial images included in Charleston County’s property records system, tire tracks and piles of debris are clearly visible, going back years.
The county had received complaints about the same property in 2014 and code enforcement found construction debris on the Martinez’s property, which was prohibited. That case ended with the county mailing a violation letter.
According to the 2026 legal complaint, Charleston County put Martinez on notice more than a year ago and issued a ticket, and he removed some of the waste from the city’s land. County records show the process was delayed because of Martinez’ health, the amount of waste and a family medical emergency.
The ticket the county issued was dismissed in May 2025 and the case was closed. But then the full extent of the waste was discovered as the city cleared its adjacent property for the drainage project, according to the county and the city.
It was a roughly 10,000-square-foot area where the waste was between two and eight feet deep, the city claimed.
A contractor hauled it all away, finishing in September 2025, at a cost of $140,862.61, according to the lawsuit.
“I don’t know why they are claiming it’s all my debris,” Martinez said. “Some of it is.”
He said one of the city’s contractors told him not to worry about it, that they would clean it up.
On Jan. 30 the city filed the lawsuit seeking to recoup the cost, plus legal fees and potentially additional damages, along with an injunction barring the couple from trespassing and dumping on city property.
Charleston’s attorney Julia Copeland said the city expects to win a judgment and put a lien on the Martinez’ property, so that the government would get the money it expects to be owed when the property is eventually sold.
The Barberry Woods drainage project is expected to be finished this year.
Mini golf course opening soon in Johns Island, while Tractor Supply eyes Moncks Corner
Jenny Petersonhttps://www.postandcourier.com/business/retail/sea-island-golf-and-arcade-mini-golf-johns-island-opening/article_627ee843-3787-4c1f-bdee-cfd0537b96da.html
Drivers along Maybank Highway on Johns Island have been passing a bright green, retro-style sign promising miniature golf is “coming soon.”The wait is almost over.Sea Island Mini Golf & Arcade is slated to open in late February, bringing two full 18-hole micro-layouts and a large indoor arcade with several dozen games.The family-friendly entertainment hub at 3414 Maybank Highway features two separate courses — Alligator Alley and Swampville — ...
Drivers along Maybank Highway on Johns Island have been passing a bright green, retro-style sign promising miniature golf is “coming soon.”
The wait is almost over.
Sea Island Mini Golf & Arcade is slated to open in late February, bringing two full 18-hole micro-layouts and a large indoor arcade with several dozen games.
The family-friendly entertainment hub at 3414 Maybank Highway features two separate courses — Alligator Alley and Swampville — complete with fountains, sand traps and mini bridges behind a warehouse-style building and parking area.
More than 40 arcade games will be installed indoors, along with multiple televisions for watching sports, including golf and a concessions counter inside will serve up soft pretzels, ice cream, slushies, nachos and pretzels.
Pending a permit, the food truck will offer pizza, fries and chicken fingers. The owners have also applied for a beer and wine license.
Each hole on the courses is sponsored by a local business, and the first nine holes on each course are wheelchair accessible. The design allows players to complete a full 18-hole round by combining accessible holes across both courses. A practice putting green is included on site.
Co-owners Sandie and Michael Albenesius, who also own and operate St. John’s Kayaks and Boat Tours, said the idea grew out of a desire to offer more activities for teens and families on the island and nearby James Island. They own the Sea Island Mini Golf with two additional co-owners.
Transforming the former storage warehouse took several years.
Players on the mini golf course will receive putters, golf balls, a scorecard and a tiny pencil upon signing up to play the courses.
Outdoor seating, picnic tables and televisions — including coverage from the Golf Channel — are also part of the setup.
Initially, Sea Island Mini Golf & Arcade plans to operate Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. but will fluctuate based on weather or demand. The owners said hours will likely expand as demand grows, particularly heading into the summer season.
Beyond casual play, the venue plans to host birthday parties, corporate events, themed nights and group outings for kids and adults alike.
Rural retail
A national retailer of farm and rural lifestyle supplies is eyeing a new stire at Foxbank Plantation in Moncks Corner, near a community slated for nearly 3,000 homes.
Tractor Supply and PetSense by Tractor Supply have submitted plans to the S.C. Department of Environmental Services for a 21,930-square-foot retail outpost at 219 Foxbank Town Center. The project’s owner and developer is Twin Rivers Capital.
Tractor Supply carries farm supplies, pet and animal feed, clothing, tools, fencing and other rural essentials. PetSense offers grooming services and pet prescriptions.
Brentwood, Tenn.-based Tractor Supply is described as the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the U.S. The chain operates 2,364 namesake stores in 49 states, along with 206 PetSense locations in 23 states.
The company has opened seven stores in the Charleston area since expanding to South Carolina in 2007.
Gold rush
Gold Digger, an antique jewelry store, repair shop and jewelry design studio, will open Feb. 7 in North Charleston's Park Circle area.
The address is 1080 E. Montague Ave.
Gold Digger is owned by Lisa Thomas and daughter Emma, who source pieces during their travels. Each item is inspected and prepared by a master jeweler.
Thomas also owns DIGS Charleston and DIGS Imports, a curated furniture shop located at the same address, as well as Out of Hand in the Old Village in Mount Pleasant.
In addition to antique and vintage jewelry, the shop will offer repair services and custom, one-of-a-kind jewelry design.
Get crackin’
A Cajun-style seafood boil restaurant has opened near Tanger Outlets in North Charleston. Happy Crab Seafood is now serving at 4950 Centre Pointe Drive.
Restore more
The Habitat for Humanity ReStore on the peninsula is now open on Mondays.
The home goods-focused shop at 731 Meeting St., accepts donations and sells discounted building materials, furniture and home products, with proceeds supporting affordable housing efforts in the Charleston area.
Updated store hours are Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunrise arrives
The wait is over for diners in Goose Creek to get their own outpost of a Johns Island-based diner.
Sunrise Bistro officially opened Feb. 3 at 216 St. James Ave., in the former Ti-Ney Bangkok II Restaurant.
Co-owner Brian Appelt launched the eatery in 2009 with business partner Jessica Welenteichick after the pair spent years working together at Hege’s Restaurant on Johns Island. Other Sunrise Bistro locations are in Mount Pleasant, Johns Island, Aiken and Summerville.
Disclaimer:
