Christopher A. Austin

Christopher A. Austin is the CEO and principal shareholder of Austin & Pethick Law Firm, PC. He leads the firm’s estate planning law, probate, and tax practice. His work covers simple and complex estate plans, trust and estate administration, asset protection, business succession, and tax planning. He also advises on business formation, commercial real estate matters, and corporate transactions. Clients rely on his careful guidance to protect assets, reduce risk, solve legal problems, and plan for the future with confidence and clarity.

Christopher holds a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina. He later earned his J.D. from Charlotte School of Law and his LL.M. in Taxation from the University of Alabama. He is also an AEP® Designee, reflecting advanced knowledge in estate planning. This strong academic foundation supports his work in tax-sensitive planning, probate matters, and long-term wealth protection for individuals, families, business owners, and fiduciaries across a wide range of clients.

Christopher has built a law career focused on practical solutions and careful planning. Licensed in South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee, he advises clients on matters that often affect families, businesses, and estates at important turning points. He is also certified to practice before the United States Tax Court. His background allows him to address legal and tax issues together, helping clients make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and create plans that support long-term goals with greater peace of mind.

Christopher A. Austin helps people protect what they have built and prepare for what comes next through his work. He assists clients with wills, trusts, probate administration, tax planning, and business succession plans that match their needs. He also supports families and fiduciaries during complex estate and trust administration matters. By explaining legal options in plain language and building thoughtful strategies, he helps clients move forward with stronger protection, better organization, and a clearer path for their families or businesses.

Law Office Affiliations

• Principal Shareholder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Austin and Pethick Law Firm, PC
• Member, South Carolina Bar
• Member, United States District Court, District of South Carolina
• Member, United States Tax Court
• Member, State Bar of Georgia
• Member, Tennessee Bar Association
• Member, Aiken County Bar Association
• Member, South Carolina Licensed Title Insurance Agent
• Member, Wealth Counsel
• Member, American Land Title Association (ALTA)
• Former Board Member, Aiken Steeple Chase Association

Licensed State

• South Carolina
• Georgia
• Tennessee

Education

• University of Alabama
  Master of Law (LLM)
• Charlotte School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of South Carolina
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges