Safeguarding Your Legacy
Through Estate Planning
We offer personalized, client-focused trust & estate planning services for Charleston, SC and surrounding areas.
I’m pleased to share that I have joined Smith Debnam Attorneys at Law, where I will continue my Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning practice from the firm’s Charleston office.
This move gives me the opportunity to continue doing the work I care deeply about, helping individuals and families put thoughtful plans in place for the people they love, while giving my clients access to the resources and broader legal capabilities of a firm that has been serving clients for more than 50 years.
Smith Debnam was founded in 1972 and today serves businesses, institutions, families, and individuals from offices in Charleston, Raleigh, and Charlotte. What drew me to the firm, though, goes beyond its size or capabilities. Smith Debnam has built its reputation on relationships. The firm takes the long view, getting to know its clients, growing alongside them, and often serving families and businesses across generations. That approach felt very familiar to me.
A New Chapter, With the Same Commitment to You
What isn’t changing is the way I approach this work. I’ll continue taking the time to understand your family, your priorities, and what you want your plan to accomplish. My goal remains the same: to help you make thoughtful decisions now and have confidence that your plan will work when the people you care about need it.
For my existing clients, I’m grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me, and I look forward to continuing our relationship at Smith Debnam. And if you’re visiting because you’re considering working with me for the first time, I’d be glad to start that conversation.
How Can We Help?
-
Legacy & Estate Planning
Estate planning isn't just about writing a will. It's a comprehensive strategy that empowers you to make informed decisions about your assets, both while you're alive and after you're gone. It provides peace of mind for you and your family, and also helps maximize value and minimize taxes.
-
Trust Administration
A trustee acts as a steward of the trust, ensuring that the grantor's wishes are honored and the beneficiaries are taken care of according to the terms of the trust. This includes managing assets, record-keeping, and distributing assets to the beneficiaries.
-
Medicaid Planning
With South Carolina's average nursing home costs reaching $69,000 per year, it's easy to see how your retirement savings could vanish quickly. While planning for unforeseen healthcare expenses would be easier with a crystal ball, it's never too early to explore your options.
-
Business Formation & Succession Planning
When it comes to planning for the future, small business owners often face a myriad of common issues, such as separating personal and business assets, tax obligations, and succession planning.
The Story
I’m JP Rankin, founder of Rankin Law Firm, LLC. Originally from California, my journey has taken me through North Carolina and finally to Charleston, SC—places where I’m proudly licensed to practice law. I started this firm to make estate planning more approachable, personal, and effective for families at every stage of life. I believe in honest advice, lasting relationships, and helping you protect what matters most—with clarity, compassion, and care.
Want to hear me speak? Visit our Video Library or check out our Speaking Events.
Our Process
At Rankin Law Firm, LLC, we understand that time is precious. That’s why our process is designed to be efficient, personalized, and stress-free. It starts with a pre-meeting questionnaire so we can get to know you and your goals. Then, we move into a focused Planning Session to design a strategy that fits your life and your wishes. After your Signing Ceremony, you’ll walk away with your well-organized documents, and a peace of mind that your loved ones are protected from uncertainty.
Hear It From Our Clients
Check Out Our Video Library
We listen. We execute. We follow up.
Ready to Get Started?
Recent Posts
In-Person and Remote Options
Our office is conveniently located in Mount Pleasant, SC at Patriot’s Point.
Can’t make it into the office? No worries – we offer consultations via Zoom.
