by Zack Ohanesian, SC Bar Pro Bono Program Manager
The South Carolina Bar Pro Bono Program, in partnership with a dedicated group of volunteers and organizations, continued its mission to serve the state’s rural communities by hosting a legal clinic at the Pamplico Development and Resource Center.
The outreach began April 4 with an informational session led by Gino Truncellito of the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation. Sixteen community members attended to learn about estate planning, heirs’ property issues, and how to protect family assets. The educational session laid the groundwork for the clinic held one week later.
On April 11, the Pamplico clinic welcomed community members seeking legal guidance and document preparation. Volunteer attorneys helped prepare wills and health care powers of attorney for 20 individuals — a significant impact in a single day. In addition to direct services, the clinic connected attendees with ongoing support through referrals to South Carolina Legal Services and the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation.
The clinic’s success was made possible by strong collaboration. It was led by the SC Bar Pro Bono Program and supported by the Bar’s Young Lawyers Division (YLD). Special thanks go to Adrian Peguese Carter and Jessica Ferguson for their roles with the YLD. Team members Gino Truncellito and Katrice Williams of the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation provided key expertise, and volunteers Kayla Adams, Meagan Burns, Glenn Ohanesian, Karolan Ohanesian, William Phillips and Taylor Yarnal generously gave their time and skills.
South Carolina Legal Services’ newly wrapped Justice Van, driven by staff attorney Daniel Beasley, also made the trip to Pamplico, expanding the clinic’s on-site capabilities.
The event reflects the Bar’s broader commitment to improving access to justice in underserved areas. Inspired by discussions at the South Carolina Access to Justice (SCATJ) Annual Convening, the SC Bar Pro Bono Program has increased outreach to rural communities. Over the past 30 days, volunteers have served residents in Pickens, Georgetown and rural Florence County.
These efforts, alongside ongoing programs like Mock Trial, We the People, Law Talks, Direct Representation and SC Free Legal Answers, underscore the heart of South Carolina’s legal community: showing up, giving back and ensuring justice is within reach for everyone.
To get involved, complete the volunteer interest form on your Member Dashboard or fill out the form on our website. You can also email zbo@scbar.org or call (803) 576-3795.
