Business Details
16 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Beaufort Family Law Attorneys
Fender Law Firm has been a family-first practice since its founding in 2010, building on a legacy that traces back to the Dowling & Dowling firm established in 1941. Our roots run deep in the Beaufort community, where three generations of clients have trusted us to guide them through challenging family legal matters. From the moment you enter our office, you are greeted with kindness, respect, and a commitment to personalized service. Our team brings over 25 years of combined experience to every case, working tirelessly to provide peace of mind and resolve complex issues like divorce, custody, and adoption.We serve the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit, including Beaufort, Jasper, Colleton, Hampton, and Allendale Counties, with a focus on compassion, honesty, and fairness. Our attorneys are recognized leaders in family law, including membership in prestigious organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Whether you need urgent representation or strategic mediation, we prioritize your needs and advocate fiercely on your behalf.
Services
Divorce
Separation
Custody
Paternity
Parental Rights
Adoption
Mediation
Military Divorce
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We bring over 25 years of experience in South Carolina family law.
- Our team offers personalized service tailored to your unique situation.
- We provide 24/7 availability for urgent legal matters.
- Our attorneys are recognized leaders in family law advocacy.
- We prioritize compassionate, client-centered representation.
Associations and certifications
- American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
What people say
Best legal experience
Promptly addressed issues
Great work
Peace of mind
Services
Divorce
Our firm specializes in guiding clients through divorce proceedings with empathy and expertise. We handle contested and uncontested cases, focusing on equitable asset division, alimony, and child custody. With decades of combined experience, our attorneys protect your rights while minimizing emotional stress. We serve clients across the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit, ensuring personalized strategies for favorable outcomes.
Custody
We advocate for clients in child custody disputes, prioritizing the child's best interests. Our team addresses visitation rights, parental relocation, and modification of existing orders. With a child-centered approach, we negotiate agreements or litigate when necessary. Our experience spans traditional and non-traditional custody arrangements across Beaufort and surrounding counties.
Mediation
Our mediation services help couples resolve disputes amicably, reducing court conflict. We facilitate discussions on property division, support, and parenting plans. This cost-effective alternative to litigation promotes cooperation while safeguarding your interests. Our mediators combine legal expertise with compassionate guidance for sustainable resolutions.
Military Divorce
We address unique challenges in military divorces, including pension division, healthcare, and deployment-related custody issues. Our attorneys understand federal and state regulations affecting service members and their families. We provide strategic representation tailored to the complexities of military life in South Carolina courts.
Paternity
Our firm establishes or challenges paternity to secure legal rights and responsibilities. We handle DNA testing, child support, and custody determinations. With a focus on long-term family stability, we guide clients through this sensitive process while protecting their interests in court proceedings.
People
Addison Dowling Fender
Attorney
Third-generation Beaufort attorney with over 15 years of family law experience. Graduated from Clemson University and Charleston School of Law. Recognized as a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Specializes in complex divorce and custody cases.
Tracy Fender
Paralegal
Experienced paralegal with 15+ years in family law. Manages office operations and client support. Combines legal expertise with a compassionate approach to assist clients during challenging times.
Robert Durst
Legal Consultant
Retired attorney with 50+ years of family law experience. Former equity partner at Stark & Stark. Served as president of the New Jersey Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Provides strategic guidance on complex cases.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve Beaufort, Jasper, Colleton, Hampton, and Allendale Counties, including Bluffton and Hilton Head.
Do you handle emergency custody cases?
Yes, we provide urgent representation for emergency custody hearings and expedited court proceedings.
Are your attorneys certified in family law?
Our lead attorney is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, demonstrating advanced expertise.
Can I schedule weekend appointments?
Yes, we offer flexible scheduling, including nights and weekends, to accommodate client needs.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards and offer customized payment plans for legal services.
