About Lea B. Kerrison, Esq. — General Practice Mt Pleasant South Carolina
Lea B. Kerrison, Esq. is a general practice Mt Pleasant attorney serving Charleston County residents and small business owners across the East Cooper region. The practice handles the everyday legal questions that come up for individuals and families — civil disputes, real estate questions, family matters, and basic estate planning. Many East Cooper residents do not need a deep specialist; they need an attorney who knows the local courthouse and gives realistic advice. Compare other Mt Pleasant, South Carolina attorneys before scheduling.
Cases typically route through the Charleston County Courthouse on Broad Street in downtown Charleston, with family matters heard in Charleston Family Court. The firm helps clients understand which court has jurisdiction, what filings are required, and what to expect at each stage. Brief intake calls help residents assess fit before retaining counsel.
What Clients Say
Reviewers describe the practice as approachable, prepared, and patient with clients new to the legal process. Clients note clear explanations of South Carolina court procedures, prompt communication, and realistic estimates of timeline and cost. Several reviews highlight careful hearing preparation and a calm courtroom presence.
General Practice Mt Pleasant — Practice Areas & Services
- Civil disputes and small claims: Contract issues, landlord-tenant matters, and small claims under $7,500 filed in Charleston County Magistrate Court.
- Family law basics: Uncontested divorce, custody, and support cases in Charleston County Family Court.
- Estate basics: Simple wills, powers of attorney, and advance directives for East Cooper families.
- Real estate and contract review: Closings, deed work, and contract drafting for residents and local businesses.
- Traffic and misdemeanor defense: DUI, reckless driving, and minor charges from US-17 and I-526 traffic stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which court hears most cases from Mt Pleasant?
Civil matters over $7,500 and felonies are heard at the Charleston County Court of Common Pleas and Court of General Sessions in downtown Charleston. Smaller claims under $7,500 go to Charleston County Magistrate Court. Divorce, custody, and support are heard in Charleston Family Court, part of South Carolina’s Ninth Judicial Circuit.
What does an initial consultation typically cost?
Many South Carolina general practice attorneys offer a brief paid consultation, often $150 to $300, sometimes credited toward fees if you retain. Routine matters such as a basic will, uncontested divorce, or short contract review often run on a flat fee. Always ask about the fee structure before retaining counsel.
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Charleston County?
South Carolina requires a one-year continuous separation before a no-fault divorce. Once the year passes, an uncontested divorce in Charleston Family Court typically finalizes within 90 to 120 days. Fault-ground divorces (adultery, physical cruelty, habitual drunkenness, desertion) may proceed sooner but typically take 6 to 12 months.
Quick Facts: General Practice in Mt Pleasant, South Carolina
- Local courts: Charleston County operates Common Pleas, General Sessions, Magistrate, Family, Probate, and Master-in-Equity courts as part of the Ninth Judicial Circuit — South Carolina Judicial Department
- Magistrate Court limit: South Carolina Magistrate Courts hear civil matters up to $7,500 — S.C. Code § 22-3-10
- Town population: Mt Pleasant has roughly 92,000 residents and is the largest town in South Carolina — U.S. Census Bureau


