CHARLESTON, SC
Divorce, custody, and adoption with dignity and discretion. A boutique Charleston firm focused exclusively on family matters for nearly four decades.
WHO WE ARE
Hartwell Family Law Group was founded in 1987 by Margaret Hartwell with a single belief: family law deserves a gentler, more thoughtful approach. We focus on collaborative divorce, mediated custody arrangements, and protecting children from the courtroom whenever possible. When litigation is unavoidable, we are seasoned, prepared, and respected by every Lowcountry family-court judge.
WHAT WE DO
Uncontested, collaborative, and litigated divorce — including high-net-worth asset division.
Parenting plans, relocation cases, and modifications focused on the child's best interest.
Domestic, stepparent, and same-sex couple adoptions throughout South Carolina.
Thoughtful pre- and post-marital agreements that protect both spouses.
Certified family-court mediators offering an alternative to costly litigation.
Emergency protective orders and survivor-centered representation.
LEADERSHIP
Founder
Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Practicing since 1985.
Partner
Certified family-court mediator. Adjunct professor at Charleston School of Law.
Associate
Concentrates on adoption and LGBTQ+ family formation.
CASE RESULTS
CLIENT VOICES
Margaret made the worst year of my life survivable. She protected my children and my dignity.
Our adoption journey took three years. Sarah was with us every step. We are forever grateful.
I dreaded mediation but James created a space where we could actually talk. We left with a plan.
Yes. Most uncontested matters in SC require a one-year separation. We guide you through the paperwork and the final hearing.
A process where both spouses (and their attorneys) commit to resolving everything outside court, often with a neutral financial expert and child specialist.
South Carolina courts apply the 'best interest of the child' standard, weighing 17 statutory factors.
Absolutely. We have decades of experience securing meaningful custody and visitation for fathers.
GET IN TOUCH
Tell us what happened. We respond to every inquiry within one business hour.