Manning Probate Lawyer

Manning Probate Attorney

In Manning, SC, when someone dies, the whole town mourns. Losing a loved one is difficult enough, and the added stress of probate can make it even worse. If you have questions or are facing issues with the Clarendon County Probate Court, you don’t have to go through it alone. This is what a Manning probate lawyer is for: helping you get through the process of probate following the death of a loved one.

Hire a Probate Lawyer You Can Trust

When facing legal matters, you don’t want just anyone handling the personal affairs of your loved one. Kinney Law Firm has experience in these types of sensitive matters. We can assist you and your family through the entire process, and we can do it with class in honor of your deceased loved one. Our firm is led by a Manning family lawyer whom you can trust.

What Does a Probate Lawyer Handle?

An effective Manning probate lawyer will assist in validating the deceased’s will by confirming the authenticity of the document. They can see if the will is compliant with Manning probate laws. If there are disputes between heirs, a probate attorney can address those as well.

Another important role for a Manning probate attorney is to assist the named individual in the document in taking on their roles and responsibilities as executor. This is the person who files the will with the Clarendon County Probate Court and then manages the estate thereafter. This can be an overwhelming job for someone who has never done it before. Kinney Law Firm has helped many clients who were named executors and needed guidance throughout the probate process.

South Carolina requires that creditors be notified within a specific scheduled timeframe and process. A probate attorney can maintain adherence to these policies. When claims are made by debtors against the estate, a good probate lawyer knows how to evaluate claims and pay them in the proper order according to state law; specifically, Section 62-3-807 of Title 62 South Carolina Probate Code.

After debts have been paid, the executor or administrator must then inventory the estate assets. This involves valuating them and dispersing them according to the terms of the will or state intestacy laws when there is no will. Depending on the amount of assets and beneficiaries, this can get complicated, especially when discrepancies or disputes arise. A probate attorney can prevent and manage conflicts in these types of probate cases.

The last major area of probate is taxes. When in doubt, hire a probate lawyer. A good Manning probate lawyer can help you carry out the wishes of the deceased with the lightest tax load possible. Experience is key for avoiding delays in closing out the estate, along with meeting filing deadlines and preparing documents and filings. This is why a qualified probate attorney is a great resource in these situations.

Why Choose Us?

In 2021, there were just over 560 deaths in Clarendon County, which is about 45 people per month. Probate issues are more common than most people may realize, but financial matters following the death of a loved one are still critical to manage. Fortunately, they can be entrusted to an experienced and vested probate lawyer. Kinney Law Firm has extensive knowledge and experience in Manning probate cases. We can assist the executor with the process and make sure it resolves smoothly.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost in South Carolina?

A: The cost of a probate lawyer in South Carolina is slightly lower than the national average, but it really depends. Factors that affect the cost of a probate lawyer in South Carolina include:

• The specific area the lawyer practices in
• Whether they charge a flat rate, per hour, or per service
• The level of experience the lawyer has

To get an accurate quote, consult a local probate attorney in your specific area.

Q: Do I Need a Lawyer for Probate in SC?

A: The South Carolina Probate Code does not mandate a lawyer for probate cases. It is possible to carry out the probate process without an attorney, but you risk mishaps and delays with the case. Having a lawyer can be especially useful in complicated estates or if someone is disputing the will. Unless you’ve been through the process before, it’s recommended that you have the legal advice of a knowledgeable and well-versed probate lawyer to be sure you maintain compliance with state laws.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Probate Lawyer and an Estate Lawyer?

A: A probate lawyer and an estate lawyer can be the same attorney, though they don’t have to be. Estate lawyers assist clients who are still alive in planning for the future following their death. This is to ensure a smooth transfer of the estate and the carrying out of the lawyer’s client’s final wishes. A probate lawyer handles filings and documents following the death of an individual, assisting loved ones of the deceased.

Q: What Assets Do Not Go Through Probate?

A: Assets that do not go through probate include financial accounts that are jointly owned. For instance, bank accounts or real estate with joint ownership between the deceased and someone still living, such as their spouse, are exempt from probate.

Additionally, accounts with rights of survivorship typically avoid probate, such as:

• Retirement accounts
• Life insurance policies
• Accounts that are payable on death

To ensure an avoidance of probate, an experienced estate planning lawyer can put assets into a legally binding trust.

Consult an Established Probate Lawyer

Kinney Law Firm is an established Manning probate law firm. Our team is familiar with the local court processes, and we know how to navigate the legal system to avoid issues. When you go through probate alone, you don’t know what to expect. However, when you work with us, we can inform you of what comes next, make sure every step is carried out swiftly, and remain in compliance with South Carolina laws. For an ideal outcome, contact our office to discuss your probate case.