When faced with life changing issues, you should have access to a trained professional to assist you with making decisions that will have life-long ramifications.
What You Need to Know
Life Events That Trigger Updates
An estate plan should evolve as your life does. If you’ve recently gotten married or divorced, welcomed a new child into your family, purchased property, experienced a shift in your financial situation, or lost a loved one named in your documents, it’s time to take another look. These moments often require changes to your will, updates to beneficiaries, or a reassignment of decision-makers like executors, trustees, or agents. Even if no major events have occurred, we recommend reviewing your estate plan every few years to ensure it still reflects your goals. A thoughtful update now can prevent confusion or conflict later. We’re here to guide you through those changes and keep everything aligned with your current wishes.
Types of Documents We Create
Estate planning is more than just writing a will — it’s about putting the right legal tools in place to protect your wishes, loved ones, and legacy. We prepare personalized documents that reflect your values and comply with South Carolina law. This may include a last will and testament to direct how your assets are distributed and who will care for your minor children. We often recommend revocable living trusts to manage your property during life and avoid probate later. Many clients also benefit from a durable power of attorney, which allows someone they trust to make financial decisions on their behalf. Healthcare directives and a living will ensure your medical preferences are respected and that someone you trust can speak for you if needed. Every document is drafted with intention, so you can move forward with peace of mind.
Meet the Attorney
Dennis M. Gerald has been serving the people of South Carolina with integrity and dedication since 1989. A Columbia native and proud graduate of the University of South Carolina, Dennis founded The Gerald Law Firm to provide clients with personalized, principled legal representation during some of life’s most sensitive and significant moments.
Over the years, Dennis’s practice has evolved to reflect his passion for service and his deep understanding of the legal issues that matter most to families and individuals. Today, The Gerald Law Firm focuses exclusively on estate planning, probate administration, guardianships and conservatorships, and adoption law.
Whether guiding clients through the loss of a loved one, helping prepare for the future, or celebrating the formation of new families, Dennis approaches every case with clarity, compassion, and confidence built over decades of practice.
