MAUREEN "CHRISTIE" MCDONNELL, ESQ.
McDonnell & Associates, P.A.
Call us! 803-828-0443
Hi, I’m Christie—mom, sister, attorney, and passionate advocate for everyday families and individuals. I help people create practical, personalized estate plans that protect what matters most—whether that’s children, aging parents, special needs beneficiaries, or simply your own peace of mind.
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or those nearing retirement. It’s for anyone who wants to stay in control of their future, protect their loved ones, and make sure their wishes are honored, no matter what life brings. That includes single professionals, business owners, parents of young children, blended families, and people navigating tough “what if” questions.
As a mom and one of five siblings, I understand how personal and emotional these decisions can be. I also know that life can change in an instant. Estate planning is how we prepare for the unexpected, things like temporary incapacity, medical emergencies, or making sure the right people are in charge if something happens.
It’s not just about having a will. It’s about having a voice. It’s about making sure you get to decide what happens, not the state, not a court. My goal is to walk you through a clear, thoughtful approach that replaces stress and confusion with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.
We include emergency plans for your children, your business, and your personal affairs so that when life gets hard, you’re already prepared. When you work with me, we don’t just prepare documents. We create a customized, comprehensive plan of action that reflects your values and protects your people. It’s one of the most loving and worthy things you can do for your family, yourself, and your legacy.
I focus on education and empowerment, so you understand your options and feel confident every step of the way. This isn’t a one-time transaction, it’s the start of a trusted relationship built on compassion, clarity, and care for the things that matter most to you.
Hi there!
what clients say...
An attorney created a Trust for me 10 yrs ago but my daughter told me I needed a new one when I moved to SC and introduced me to Christie. My experience was so different this time. I had no idea all that I hadn't yet considered, but Christie explained a lot I didn't understand and helped me make decisions that normally would cause me stress. Highly recommend Christie McDonnell!
Barb P.
Christie is a pleasure to work with. She answered all my questions & shared a lot of helpful information. I feel much better knowing my estate planning is complete.
Melanie D.
We're very pleased with the services Christie provided for our family. She was not only very professional, but compassionate as well. I highly recommend her.
David J.
Christie is a genuinely caring person! She is also knowledgeable and trustworthy!! I highly recommend! She has always taken excellent care of me and my clients!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommend Christie McDonnell!
Kimberly M.
I read a poll that ranked attorneys just above used car salesmen in terms of public trust. But if those same people had the chance to work with Christie, I’m confident they’d view attorneys as one of the most trusted professionals. Christie approaches clients with exceptional care and diligence. Her attention to detail is unmatched, and you never feel like just another case. She genuinely cares and it’s clear that your best interests are her top priority. She is a rare find in this industry.
Tara M.
Christie McDonnell is an outstanding attorney. She is dedicated to her clients and her business and works tirelessly to provide the best legal services to everyone she works with. I highly recommend her practice.
Sarah L.
Christie is the best of the best in estate planning. Extremely personable, professional and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend her.
Sarah W.
Christie did an absolutely outstanding thorough review and execution of my wife's and my trust/estate documents giving us great piece of mind.
David R.
Comprehensive Peace of Mind Planning.
Living trusts
Trusts help you care for your family and manage your assets now and in the future. They help avoid probate, ease burden on loved ones, and maintain privacy. Trusts reflect your wishes and protect what matters most.
Childrens' protection plans
Protecting your children is your most important job. We help you create a plan that names trusted guardians, outlines your wishes, and gives you peace of mind knowing your children will be cared for exactly as you intend.
Special needs planning
We help families protect loved ones with disabilities by preserving public benefits and creating long-term care plans—so you can have peace of mind, even when you’re no longer able to be there in person.
Health care planning
Advance Health Care Directives allow you to spell out your medical preferences and name someone you trust to make decisions if you can’t. It’s a powerful way to care for yourself and ease the burden on those you love.
Asset planning & protection
You’ve worked hard for what you have—let’s keep it safe. We help you safeguard your wealth from creditors, lawsuits, life’s unexpected turns—and ensure it’s preserved for the people and causes you care about most.
Business succession planning
Planning ahead means your business won’t miss a beat. We’ll help you include your business in your estate plan so it’s protected, passed on smoothly, and run the way you want—even if you’re no longer there.
Medicaid asset protection
A Medicaid Asset Protection Trust lets you protect your assets so they won’t count against you when applying for Medicaid. It starts the 5-year clock Medicaid uses to check for past transfers that could affect your eligibility.
Unique planning
Some items need extra consideration. Whether you're safeguarding firearms in compliance with law or ensuring your pets are cared for after you're gone, we make sure every detail is properly planned for.
Kids CARE Plan:
Custody
Access
Representation
Emergency planning
Naming godparents or having a will is simply not enough to keep the courts from deciding who cares for your children.
Our Kids CARE Plan gives parents the foundational legal protection every family needs. It ensures your children are cared for by the people you choose—not left to chance—if you become incapacitated or pass away unexpectedly.
With this plan, you’ll have peace of mind knowing:
Guardianship is clear – Legal instructions for both short-term and long-term guardians, so your kids are never left in limbo.
Caregivers have guidance – Trusted caregivers know exactly what to do in an emergency.
Your wishes are clear – From daily routines to values, your parenting instructions are documented so your children are raised the way you want.
The Kids CARE Plan answers the questions every parent worries about: Who decides? Who steps in? What happens next?
Benefits of estate planning:
01.
Provide for a spouse, child, or grandchild.
02.
Name guardians for minor children.
03.
Special planning for blended families.
04.
Reduce administration costs at death.
05.
Avoid probate.
06.
Plan for transfer of family business.
07.
Disinherit a family member.
08.
Reduce administrative costs at death.
09.
Protect against greedy or angry family member
10.
Keep your business generating income if you become incapacitated
I know,I know. But...
01
I'm not old or sick or rich
Every adult should have an estate plan. It’s not just about dividing up your belongings, but about creating a clear plan that provides peace of mind for you and your family. When the time comes, your loved ones won’t have to guess your wishes or face unnecessary stress. Instead, they’ll have the clarity and guidance they need to honor your decisions confidently.
02
I can use legal zo*m
The Internet has its advantages, but when it comes to estate planning, nothing compares to the personalized guidance of an experienced attorney. Online forms might seem convenient, but they lack the depth and trust that comes with a personal relationship. Without professional insight, these generic templates could lead to unexpected outcomes, or worse, fail to hold up in court when it matters most.
With an attorney, you’re not just creating paperwork; you’re building peace of mind. Trust someone who knows you and can adapt your plan as your life changes. Your estate deserves more than a one-size-fits-all solution.
03
It's too expensive
Partnering with an experienced attorney to create a comprehensive estate plan is a wise investment. If you’re looking for the cheapest option, I’m not the right fit. That’s because I won’t compromise on the value I provide, and this is too important to leave to the lowest bidder. Don’t settle for less when it matters most.