by Zack Ohanesian, SC Bar Pro Bono Program Manager
On Friday, July 18, 2025, the SC Bar Pro Bono Program hosted a successful Wills and Healthcare Power of Attorney legal clinic at the Marian Wright Edelman Public Library in Bennettsville, South Carolina. The clinic was scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but a committed team of volunteers stayed until 6pm so that every person received the assistance they needed. Over the course of the day, 30 community members were served with personalized legal support.
This event was made possible through the collaboration of several dedicated partners, including Marlboro County, the Joseph F. Rice School of Law, the Center for Heirs’ Property, and the Marian Wright Edelman Public Library, whose staff provided outstanding support and hospitality throughout the day. The Palmetto LEADER even made an appearance, thanks to the Joseph F. Rice School of Law’s new Pro Bono Director, Jefferson Coulter.
A team of seven attorneys from across the Pee Dee generously donated their time and expertise: Kayla Adams, Allison Burch, Adrian Peguese Carter, Jay Hodge, Rep. Jason Luck, Andrew McLeod, and Gino Truncellito. Their efforts helped ensure that each participant received essential estate planning documents prepared with care and attention to detail.
The clinic was met with sincere appreciation from attendees, many of whom expressed gratitude for the opportunity to receive these services in their own community. Events like this underscore the importance of accessible legal assistance and the power of collaboration between legal professionals, local institutions, and community partners, particularly in the more rural parts of our state.
Looking ahead, the SC Bar Pro Bono Program is actively working to expand its reach across South Carolina. Attorneys and legal professionals interested in volunteering are encouraged to complete the Member Interest Form available on their Member Dashboard at www.scbar.org to start getting involved!
In the coming months, the Pro Bono Program is preparing for several upcoming initiatives, including a clinic in partnership with the South Carolina Supreme Court’s visit to Aiken on September 23rd, Pro Bono Week programming in October, and future clinics in Cherokee County and with the Catawba Reservation (dates to be announced). These efforts reflect the Program’s ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful legal services to communities across the state.
