by Zack Ohanesian, SC Bar Pro Bono Program Manager
The South Carolina Bar Pro Bono Program hosted a free legal clinic Oct. 17 in Cherokee County, offering estate planning services to members of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, 911 operators, Habitat for Humanity homeowners and senior citizens in the Gaffney area.
The clinic aimed to meet people where they are and provide peace of mind through service.
The event was made possible through the support of Cherokee County, which provided space and helped create a welcoming environment for clients and volunteers. Judge Queen played a key role in planning and advocacy efforts leading up to the clinic.
Planning was a collaborative effort between the SC Bar Young Lawyers Division and the Joseph F. Rice School of Law Pro Bono Program. Circuit Representative Chelsea Rikard led attorney recruitment and client processing throughout the day. Many volunteers arrived early and stayed late, with most remaining on-site to ensure every client received personalized attention.
The SC Bar expressed gratitude to the members who made the clinic possible: Ben Clayton, Adrienne Barry, Rep. Rosalyn Henderson-Myers, Chelsea Rikard, Lauren Ward, Laura Filler, William Phillips, James Twisdale, Savanna Kimble Earles and Ray Mullman. Special thanks also went to Roxanne Reynolds for checking in clients.
Their dedication helped serve 30 families, turning a single day of service into lasting impact.
The SC Bar Foundation’s funding and support continue to make clinics like this possible. Its commitment fuels the Pro Bono Program’s work across South Carolina.
The next clinic will be held Nov. 14 at the Catawba Reservation, offering free legal services tailored to tribal citizens and surrounding community members.
