The De Bruin Law firm offers a wide range of legal services to clients in Greenville, SC and the surrounding upstate. Our experienced attorneys can help you with legal matters in the areas of business law, criminal law, estate planning, and real estate law.


Decanting an Irrevocable Trust in South Carolina: When and How Is It Possible?
/in TrustsThe term “irrevocable” suggests permanence, a legal structure set in stone, unable to be altered or revoked. For many individuals in South Carolina who have established or benefit from an irrevocable trust, this belief can lead to a sense of helplessness when circumstances change. Life is unpredictable, and a trust created years or even decades […]
Choosing Between a Corporate Trustee and Family Member in Greenville, SC
/in TrustsCreating a trust is one of the most thoughtful and impactful steps you can take in planning for your family’s future. It is an act of foresight, designed to protect your assets and provide for your loved ones long after you are gone. However, the document itself is only half of the equation. The person […]
Setting Up a South Carolina Gun Trust: Requirements for Greenville Residents Owning NFA Items
/in TrustsFor gun owners in South Carolina, the process of acquiring and owning firearms, particularly those regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA), involves specific legal steps. A gun trust, also known as an NFA trust or firearms trust, is a legal tool designed to simplify this process while ensuring compliance with federal and state laws. […]
Negotiating Commercial Leases in Greenville: Tips for Small Business Owners
/in Real EstateNavigating the world of commercial real estate can be a daunting prospect for any small business owner in Greenville. While finding the perfect location is an exciting first step, the lease agreement itself is the most important part of the journey. Simply signing a standard lease presented by a landlord without a thorough review could […]
How Long Does Probate Typically Take in Greenville County, SC?
/in ProbateThe death of a loved one brings a difficult period of grief and transition. For many families in Greenville County, South Carolina, this emotional time is compounded by the practical responsibilities that follow—including the process of settling the deceased’s estate. The legal procedure for this is known as probate, and one of the most common […]
Charitable Remainder Trusts vs. Charitable Lead Trusts: Options for Philanthropy in Greenville
/in TrustsFor many individuals and families in Greenville, philanthropy is a deeply held value. The desire to support local charities, educational institutions like Furman University, or community organizations is often a key part of their legacy. While direct donations are a common way to give, more strategic and sophisticated tools exist to maximize the impact of […]
What Authority Does an Agent Have Under a SC Durable Power of Attorney?
/in Power of AttorneyLife presents moments when we must place immense trust in another person to act on our behalf. This is particularly true when planning for a time when you might be unable to manage your own affairs due to illness or injury. A South Carolina Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) is a foundational legal instrument designed […]
Understanding 1031 Exchanges for Investment Properties in South Carolina
/in Business Law, Real Estate, Real Estate LawFor real estate investors in Greenville, South Carolina, building a portfolio often involves strategically buying and selling properties. A significant consideration in this process is the impact of capital gains taxes, which can take a substantial portion of the profits from a sale. One of the most effective tools available to defer these taxes is […]
Protecting Your Greenville Rental Properties Through Your Estate Plan
/in Business Law, Estate PlanningFor many real estate investors in Greenville, South Carolina, building a portfolio of rental properties is the result of years of hard work, careful financial planning, and savvy market navigation. Each property represents a significant investment and a source of income. Yet, the very success of this enterprise brings with it a complex set of […]
Choosing Your Healthcare Agent in Greenville: Key Considerations
/in Medical CareMaking personal decisions about your own medical care is a fundamental right. We decide which doctors to see, which treatments to accept, and which to decline. But what happens if an illness or injury leaves you unable to communicate those wishes for yourself? This is a scenario no one wants to contemplate, yet preparing for […]