Beaufort County associate probate judge announces run for elected judge in 2022
Beaufort County’s associate probate judge announced this week that she will run for elected probate judge in November, seeking to fill the office of Kenneth Fulp, who is retiring.
Heather Galvin, who has served as associate probate judge since 2012, said in a phone call with a reporter Saturday she would like to increase probate court access for residents outside of Beaufort — including in Bluffton and on Hilton Head Island and St. Helena Island.
She said she would like to keep the Hilton Head office open five days a week (instead of three) so residents won’t have to drive far to file estate documents. She also plans to improve access for people dealing with heirs property and mental health issues.
“I’m doing this because I care about our staff — I want continuity in operations,” she said. “I’m doing it for the community as well, because I care about people.”
As associate probate judge, Galvin oversees Beaufort County’s guardianship, conservatorship, trust, estate and therapeutic proceedings.
Current Probate Judge Kenneth Fulp announced last week that he will not seek re-election in November after serving since 2012.
Galvin’s campaign has received an endorsement from attorney and former Beaufort County Council Chair Tom Taylor.
“I’ve known Judge Galvin for many years — both when she was in private practice and after she was appointed as associate probate judge by Judge Fulp. I’ve appeared in front of her many times,” Taylor said. “I can personally attest to her character and fitness to serve the people of Beaufort County.
“I can’t think of anyone I believe would be better in the position following Judge Fulp.”
