Affordable Elder Law Services in Charleston
Protecting the Rights, Safety, and Stability of Older Adults in Our Community
As loved ones age, their legal needs change—and quality guidance can make the difference between a secure retirement and a period marked by confusion, conflict, or exploitation. At Charleston Legal Access (CLA), we provide affordable, compassionate elder law services for individuals and families throughout Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties.
We serve seniors and caregivers who often fall into the justice gap: people who earn too much to qualify for free legal aid but cannot afford a private attorney. These are the community members most in need of support during times of transition, vulnerability, or crisis. Through our sliding-scale model, with services beginning at $60 per hour, CLA ensures older adults have access to reliable legal help without jeopardizing their financial stability.
Our attorneys assist with property disputes, financial abuse, guardianships, conservatorships, and other complex issues that disproportionately affect seniors. Whether you’re caring for an aging loved one or navigating challenges yourself, we’re here to help you understand your rights and chart a safe, stable path forward.
Why Elder Law Matters — And Why It Matters Here
Older adults in the Lowcountry face a unique set of legal challenges. Family misunderstandings over property, financial exploitation, disputes among relatives, and questions about decision-making authority often arise when health, mobility, or cognitive ability begins to decline. Without proper guidance, these issues can escalate quickly—sometimes resulting in the loss of a home, the depletion of savings, or a breakdown in family relationships.
Charleston Legal Access provides a steady, knowledgeable presence during these moments. We help seniors protect what they’ve built, safeguard their well-being, and maintain autonomy wherever possible. Our work gives families clarity, helps prevent exploitation, and ensures legal decisions are made fairly and respectfully.
If you or someone you love has experienced physical harm or is living in unsafe conditions, please contact your local police department or Adult Protective Services. Free wellness checks are available for vulnerable adults, and DSS investigates reports of abuse or neglect. Once safety is addressed, CLA can help with the legal steps needed to restore stability.
Our Elder Law Services
Our attorneys provide support across a wide range of elder law issues. Many of our clients come to us with property and financial concerns—situations that can quickly become overwhelming without legal guidance. We frequently help seniors and families understand their rights, resolve disputes, and take action to protect assets and relationships.
Financial Abuse & Property Disputes
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to financial exploitation, fraud, and misunderstandings involving family property. We assist with:
Disputes over property ownership
Partition actions when co-owners disagree on what to do with a home
Deed transfers and title issues
Land contract or installment sale disputes
Civil claims involving fraud, conversion (theft), or misuse of funds
We partner closely with community organizations, including the Mayor’s Office on Aging and other local resources, to ensure seniors have comprehensive support when facing financial harm.
Conservatorships & Guardianships
When an adult is no longer able to manage their own personal or financial affairs, a friend or relative may need to petition the probate court for guardianship or conservatorship. These processes can feel intimidating, but they exist to protect vulnerable adults.
Charleston County’s probate court provides accessible forms and instructions, and our attorneys can step in to help:
Represent you throughout a guardianship or conservatorship petition
Explain your responsibilities if you are appointed to serve
Assist with completing and notarizing court documents during a flat-fee consultation
We understand how emotional these decisions can be. Our goal is to help families make choices rooted in respect, safety, and the best interests of their loved one.
Estate Planning & Wills
While estate planning is not the primary focus of our elder law practice, we do assist clients with essential documents such as wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives—tools that provide peace of mind and clarity for families navigating aging or illness.
Who We Serve
Our elder law services are designed for older adults and families who:
Need guidance with property disputes, deed issues, or financial exploitation
Are caring for a loved one who may no longer be able to make safe decisions
Want help navigating guardianship or conservatorship
Need support addressing financial abuse, fraud, or misuse of assets
Are experiencing housing instability, unsafe conditions, or risk of displacement
If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about your next steps, you’re not alone. We’re here to help you understand your rights and move forward with confidence.
Cost should never be a barrier to safety, dignity, or stability—especially for seniors. Our sliding-scale model provides legal assistance starting at $60 per hour, adjusted based on income and family size.
We’re committed to making elder law help accessible for older adults and the families who care for them.
Why Families Choose Charleston Legal Access
Older adults deserve attorneys who listen carefully, explain options clearly, and act with compassion. Families choose CLA because:
We treat seniors with dignity and respect. Every situation is handled with care and empathy.
We understand the emotional weight of aging-related decisions. You’ll never feel rushed or dismissed.
We believe justice should be affordable. Our fees are structured to support—not burden—clients.
We collaborate with trusted community partners. Together, we provide holistic support.
We help protect what matters most: safety, autonomy, and financial security.
At CLA, you receive more than legal assistance—you gain a partner who cares deeply about your well-being.
Speak With an Elder Law Attorney Today
If you or a loved one is facing a property dispute, financial abuse, guardianship question, or other elder law issue, we’re here to help. Call (843) 640-5980 or submit an intake request in English or Español.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. We’re here to support your safety, dignity, and long-term stability.