As we step into 2025, I am filled with immense gratitude for the incredible impact Lowcountry Legal Volunteers (LCLV) has made over the past year—and for the steadfast support of our volunteers, partners, and donors who make it all possible.

For 25 years, LCLV has been a lifeline for individuals and families in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. With a small staff of five, we rely on our community of retired attorneys, paralegals, administrative professionals, and other dedicated volunteers to deliver life-changing legal services to those who would otherwise have no access to justice. Last year, we closed over 150 cases, conducted 27 community outreach clinics, and secured over $178,000 in court-ordered child support for children in need. Altogether, we provided $2.95 million in free legal services, impacting over 2,200 people, including clients and their families.

This year, we are building on that foundation with new partnerships, expanded programs, and innovative solutions to meet the needs of our community:

Medical Legal Partnerships (MLPs): We’ve deepened our collaborations with Bluffton Jasper Volunteers in Medicine, Good Neighbor Medical Clinic, and VIM Hilton Head Island to integrate legal services into local clinics. With the support of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, we’ve hired a dedicated attorney, Hannah Kidd, to exclusively serve these patients. In 2025, we’re excited to bring these services to the Good Neighbor Medical Clinic and formalize our partnerships with local medical centers.

Pro Bono Protection Program: In response to the growing need for victim support, we’re launching a program to assist domestic violence survivors in obtaining protective orders. Partnering with the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Hopeful Horizon and SCCADVASA, we’ll train local attorneys and manage the rapid response process to help victims in crisis.

Justice Navigator Training: Thanks to a grant from Georgetown School of Law, we’ll empower community leaders to identify and address legal needs within their networks. This initiative will focus on family law, domestic violence, heirs’ property, immigration, and other critical areas.

Gullah Geechee and Veterans Programs: In partnership with the Lowcountry Gullah Foundation, the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation, and Beaufort County Department of Veterans Affairs, we will provide free wills and estate planning services to underserved communities, including low-income veterans and members of the Gullah Geechee community.

As we continue to address housing insecurity, eviction prevention, and other legal challenges through our Housing Protection Program, it is clear that the demand for our services has never been greater. Together, with your continued support, we can break down barriers to justice and ensure that every individual in our community has a voice.

Thank you for standing with us. Whether you volunteer your time, provide financial support, or advocate for our mission, you are a vital part of the LCLV family. Here’s to another year of making justice accessible to those who need it most.

With gratitude and hope,

Anne Caywood

Executive Director

Last year, Maria, a patient at one of our partnering Medical Clinics, came to LCLV in need of legal assistance. The father of her child was not providing support and had also been verbally and physically abusive towards her. Additionally, he was threatening to take her daughter and flee. When meeting with her, she shared how the stress of this situation was causing her to become physically ill.

Our team of attorneys, paralegals, and volunteers got right to work. And finally, a week before Christmas, we were able to present her with a Final Order for Custody and Child Support. Maria now has a restraining order in place against her abuser. The defendant must also begin paying child support, and is barred from taking the child without her express permission ---an unequivocal win for our client.

Because of the services LCLV provided, Maria and her daughter are now starting the New Year with a sense of peace, security, and hope.

Our greatest hope is that the outcome of this case will improve not only her health, but also the health of her child. Together, we are making a difference!

3/4/2025 – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at LLV’s Okatie Office (108 Trader’s Cross)
Celebrate 25 years of service with us at our Okatie office at 2:00 p.m. inside the 14th Circuit Solicitor's Office Victim's Services Center

4/5/2025 – Wild Women’s Tea Party! Save the date for "Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend," a lively and elegant afternoon with friends! From 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Pavilion at Indigo Hall.

4/9/2025 – Ribbon Cutting at LLV’s Beaufort Office (80 Lady’s Island Drive)

Join the Beaufort County Chamber at 10:00 a.m. for a celebration of our 25th year and our Beaufort office.

For more additional information about these events or sponsorship opportunities, contact Sandy at 843-815-1570.