If there's one thing that most families can agree on, it's that losing a loved one is tough. It's a grief-stricken time often filled with sleepless nights and free-flowing tears. Between notifying friends, planning funeral services, and working through your own emotions, the thought of Estate Administration is the last thing on your mind. But you know something must be done. You feel obligated to do something about your family member's estate but aren't sure how to proceed or when to do it. You're probably wrestling with hard-to-answer questions like:
That's where CHSA Law comes in - to help guide you through the complicated processes of probate court in South Carolina. Because the truth is, probate can be confusing and intimidating if you're ill-equipped to deal with the court's procedures and inner workings. There is legal paperwork to draft and file, petitions to publish, notices to serve, bonds to file, and a long list of rules that you must adhere to during this time. With a probate lawyer in Hanahan, SC, by your side, however, you can rest easy knowing your loved one's assets are protected, and their legacy is legally preserved.
When someone passes away, their assets have to be distributed according to South Carolina state laws and the directions in their Will. Your probate lawyer will be a significant source of help in this regard, as they will guide an executor of a Will or Beneficiaries of an estate through the often-confusing probate process. From identifying notating estate assets to distributing inheritances, your probate attorney is a crucial partner during this difficult time in your life.
At CHSA Law, our probate attorneys understand that when a client's loved one dies, they need a caring presence by their side. But they also need a confident source of knowledge that can act on their behalf as they grieve. That's why, given the complex nature of probate law, it's a good idea to have a trusted attorney on call who can settle an estate and handle the nuanced issues that arise in probate court.
Administering a decedent's estate can be a long, arduous process. That's especially true if disputes are involved with Beneficiaries. When you consider the chances of being held liable for decisions you make as a Personal Representative of an Estate, working with a probate lawyer from CDH Law Firm just makes good sense.
As seasoned probate lawyers in South Carolina, we understand that Estate Administration often involves sensitive family dynamics as much as it does the legal minutia involved in probate law. After all, a person's estate not only affects their generation but the generations that follow.
But when your loved one passes, their assets must be managed and distributed correctly. When mismanaged, disputes often arise between parties like the Beneficiaries, Trustees, Heirs, or Executors of a Will. Even when everything is managed the right way, arguments and misunderstandings can still occur, and even evolve into bitter legal battles necessitating probate litigation.
It stands to reason, then, that you should hire a probate lawyer in Hanahan, SC to help. But the truth is, many attorneys don't have vast experience with probate and trust work. If they do, they aren't usually seasoned trial attorneys. That's what separates probate attorneys at CHSA Law, LLC from others - we have the ability to help plan your Estate and litigate estate disputes if they arise.
We are keenly familiar with local probate judges, courtroom staff members, and the related procedures involved with South Carolina probate law. Our intimate knowledge and experience help us successfully navigate the probate process to complete our client's cases quickly and efficiently.
But that's just one aspect that sets CDH apart from other firms. Understanding the importance of personalized attention, we also make an intentional decision to limit our law firm's overall caseload. This allows us to better focus on individual clients, many of whom remain with us for generations. We do not pass off cases to paralegals or junior associates but rather prioritize the attorney-client relationship. We value compassion and integrity, and our practice reflects those values.
Moreover, trust is one of the most important aspects of the attorney-client relationship. We work to create an open, friendly environment in which you can feel comfortable. After years of experience, we boast the skill and experience necessary to earn that trust - and that's a priceless commodity when it comes to probate cases in South Carolina.
Our attorneys love probate and estate-related legal services, including but not limited to the following:
When our probate lawyers assist with Estate Administration, our team prioritizes efficacy and efficiency to ensure all tasks are accomplished correctly and on time. That way, our clients endure less stress while looking good in front of family members.
When an Estate is disputed and requires litigation, CHSA Law probate attorneys fight to win on our client's behalf. From holding unfaithful Executors accountable to contesting Wills, our team searches for the best way to achieve our client's goals.
Things get more complicated in probate cases where Trusts are involved. To ensure that the terms of the Trust are met and handled correctly, our team works closely with clients to advise them on how to proceed.
Every Trust is different. By proxy, every Trust dispute must be handled in a unique manner. After a careful analysis of the Trust and South Carolina law, our team will determine the best strategy to achieve our client's goals.
When a loved one passes away, it's natural to go through a time of emotional adjustment. However, it's crucial for the family of the loved one to face the financial realities of their estate. That reality includes the probate process, which involves distributing assets and settling the estate. A probate attorney in Hanahan, SC is often recommended to assist during this time. This process isn't just recommended - it's often a legal responsibility in South Carolina.
Delivery of Will Upon Death: During probate, the first step involves having a will delivered to an Estate Administrator or to the probate court. The deadline to accomplish this task is 30 days.
A Personal Representative is Assigned: This individual is often named in a Will and should be appointed officially by the court.
A Notice is Sent to Intestate Heirs: If these heirs feel that they should inherit, they have a right to challenge this step.
The Estate is Inventoried and Appraised: This process must occur within 90 days of opening an estate. In some estates with valuables like jewelry, art, and property, professional appraisers may be needed.
Settling Accounts: During this step, the estate must pay any applicable taxes, ongoing expenses, or outstanding debts. Should the estate not have enough money to pay these debts, creditors must be paid according to South Carolina code.
Distributions: If there is money in the estate after debts are paid, those funds are given to heirs of the estate, according to the Will or the State.
Discharge: As soon as any claims are paid, the personal representative of the estate will file documents to close the estate. To make this official, the court will issue a Certificate of Discharge.
Though most estates in South Carolina must go through probate, it is possible to avoid. This happens when a decedent's assets are placed in a Living Trust prior to their death. In this scenario, beneficiaries must be designated in order to inherit the estate. Suppose there are funds that have been promised to beneficiaries via life insurance policies or bank accounts with "payable upon death" designations. In that case, those funds do not have to go through probate.
Assets subject to probate in South Carolina include:
Assets that are not subject to probate in South Carolina include:
Though it's not always possible, some families go out of their way to avoid the probate process in South Carolina. Doing so can help save money in the long run and also expedite the distribution of funds to heirs. By avoiding probate, you're also keeping personal matters private.
Because every person has different estate and probate complexities, it's hard to say whether avoiding probate is good or bad. Whether or not you should avoid probate depends on your unique situation. As a general rule, it's always best to consult with a probate lawyer in Hanahan, SC, for honest feedback and probate assistance.
Typically, having a Living Trust or a Will in place will make transferring assets easier. A little prep ahead of time will make a world of difference when your loved one passes away. After all, nobody is ever prepared for a relative or family friend's death, but a compassionate, trustworthy probate attorney can make the process easier.
For many families, "Probate" is a dirty term that involves heartbreak and headaches. And while the probate process in South Carolina can be complex and stressful, having answers to some of the most common probate questions can help put your mind at ease.
My family member recently passed away, and we're considering their estate. How long will the probate process take?
The time it takes an estate to go through probate in South Carolina varies depending on a number of questions, including:
When conditions are good, a small or simple estate usually takes about a year to close. More complicated estates may take longer.
My loved one mentioned opening a Trust to protect my assets. What is a Trust, and what Trusts should I consider?
As is the case with most probate decisions, opening a Trust should be based on your unique situation and guidance from your probate attorney in Hanahan, SC. With that said, a Trust is meant to hold property for your loved one's benefit. When a Trust is created, assets are transferred into the said Trust and managed accordingly. Though there is a common misconception that Trusts are reserved for the wealthy, just about any family can benefit from opening a Trust.
The most common types of Trusts used in probate include:
When conditions are good, a small or simple estate usually takes about a year to close. More complicated estates may take longer.
What happens when somebody dies without a will in South Carolina?
When a person passes away without a Will in South Carolina, the state decides who gets their decedent's assets. This is also called passing intestate. When this happens, usually only spouses, blood relatives, or registered domestic partners can inherit property according to intestate succession laws.
Relatives who receive the probate property of the deceased are usually chosen in the following order:
If you're in need of a veteran probate lawyer in South Carolina, look no further than CDH Law Firm. With years of experience in Estate Administration and probate cases, our team is ready to serve you with excellence and protect your interests. Have additional questions? We're here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about Estate Administration in South Carolina.
Law is complicate matter. It can cause you a big problem if you ignore it. Let us help you!
Planning your estate is the first step to take if you want to protect your family, your assets, your well-being, and the fruits of your hard work.
At CHSA Law, LLC, our team of experienced probate lawyers in Hanahan, SC, can help you navigate the entire Estate Administration process. Through creative legal strategies and a clear understanding of your goals and desires, we work together to make your asset and estate visions a reality. It's never too early to get your estate in order. In fact, estate planning is important for everyone, whether you're single or married, young or old, with or without children. If you're ready to protect your assets and be prepared for probate, contact CHSA Law, LLC, today.
Hanahan ... home sweet home. I regret to say I wasn’t born here. But I sure got here as fast as I could.Growing up in Hanahan would have felt like an American dream.However, I truly believe that not growing up here has created a deeper appreciation for where I now choose to live and raise my family. While the location is ideal and central to the Charleston region, it’s the culture and family values that I treasure most.Throughout this year, Hanahan has been celebrating its 50th birthday. This area was populat...
Hanahan ... home sweet home. I regret to say I wasn’t born here. But I sure got here as fast as I could.
Growing up in Hanahan would have felt like an American dream.
However, I truly believe that not growing up here has created a deeper appreciation for where I now choose to live and raise my family. While the location is ideal and central to the Charleston region, it’s the culture and family values that I treasure most.
Throughout this year, Hanahan has been celebrating its 50th birthday. This area was populated as far back as the 1600s, and one would find plantations where homes, parks and businesses now stand.
Sir John Yeamans founded Yeamans Hall, and brothers Arthur and Edward Middleton established Otranto Plantation to name a few of the first settlers.
After Reconstruction, the Charleston region grew, and so did its needs, especially for water.
To meet that need, the Commissioners of Public Works was established and purchased the Goose Creek Reservoir.
It later developed a vast system of tunnels and a pumping station to supply potable water to the region.
In addition to being a businessman and influential leader of this time, J. Ross Hanahan was named the first chairman of the Commissioners of Public Works. Upon his departure, the pumping station was named after him, and the area became known as Hanahan.
Schools were built. Business were created. Homes were established.
In September of 1973 (only a year after North Charleston officially became a city), the city of Hanahan was officially incorporated.
The city is still known for its award-winning schools, sports and community culture.
I recently co-authored a book called “Hanahan,” released by Arcadia publishing, as a part of its Images of America series.
When we met with people to learn about how Hanahan came to be, the stories weren’t just logistical. They were personal.
Stories of jumping off the train trestle into the water, dads coming home from work from the shipyard or paper mill, students at Senior Hill, first dates at the Arcadia Rollerdrome at Port Park, fishing at Mabeline Lodge and more.
Many stories started with “One time ...” or “Back in the day ...”
While the formation of the city itself is so important, just as important are the stories of the daily experiences of the people who became the city of Hanahan.
I began by referring to Hanahan as home sweet home. Many reading this will think of a place, a location, maybe even a house.
However, those who live in Hanahan know that home sweet home means the people, because through this extraordinary community one quickly learns that home is not a place but a person, or in our case, the people who surround us.
Christie Rainwater is Mayor of Hanahan.
HANAHAN, S.C. (WCIV) — Learning how to save lives one class at a time is the goal of a course at Hanahan Middle School."Our principal came to me last year , wanting to start a new class," teacher Susan Hill said. "And we did."Read more: Berkeley County begins construction of Nexton Middle School...
HANAHAN, S.C. (WCIV) — Learning how to save lives one class at a time is the goal of a course at Hanahan Middle School.
"Our principal came to me last year , wanting to start a new class," teacher Susan Hill said. "And we did."
Read more: Berkeley County begins construction of Nexton Middle School
The new class, called Introduction to Health Professions, brings the medical world to the classroom.
"We go through a lot about the body systems, different tools used by health professionals, and different types of jobs," Hill said.
For students to get a complete understanding of what it’s like to work in the medical field, health professionals from the community are invited to come speak, including Rodney Profit, a training captain with Boeing Security and Fire.
Learning about these jobs isn't the only takeaway for the students; they leave the course certified in basic life support.
Learning how to save lives one class at a time is the goal of a course at Hanahan Middle School. (WCIV)
"We do everything from adult child infant, CPR, choking first aid, and AED usages to get these students certified in basic life support," Profit said. "Students are given a chance to kind of look and explore what's out there for them and letting them know that there are no hurdles. If there are any hurdles, they can transverse those hurdles, but no one can tell them they can't do what they want to do.”
This encouragement has left students with the world at their fingertips.
"This has opened a lot more like pathways," student Lianny Martinez said.
Student, Savannah Wika said, "I would say it really like helped me realize what I really want to do for like a job. It really opened up what's happening when you go to the hospital."
Read more: BCSD approves $1.5K and $500 bonuses for fourth incentive of the year
The course also includes off-campus field trips. The class recently visited Charleston Southern University (CSU), where students got a tour of the campus.
For Hill, she believes each and every one of the students are more than capable of accomplishing their dreams.
"I just hope they understand how valuable they are and what a future they have," she said. "They have their whole lives in front of them and I'm just really excited to see what they do with that."
Hill says she could not be prouder of her students and teaching them has been a rewarding experience.
Musicians and business owners across the Charleston area will be celebrated for their achievements at the annual Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame.The idea to create a local celebration for the area’s musicians came from Michael Davis in 2015. Davis owns the 25-plus-year-old Ye Olde Music Shop in Hanahan. The store is advertised as the largest Gibson, Fender, Martin, Taylor a...
Musicians and business owners across the Charleston area will be celebrated for their achievements at the annual Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame.
The idea to create a local celebration for the area’s musicians came from Michael Davis in 2015. Davis owns the 25-plus-year-old Ye Olde Music Shop in Hanahan. The store is advertised as the largest Gibson, Fender, Martin, Taylor and Paul Reed Smith dealer in South Carolina. Davis was inspired by his business and customers to create a new Lowcountry tradition that went beyond his beloved shop.
The Hall of Fame has inducted several well-known Charleston artists, as well as some “unsung heroes” who can benefit from the recognition. The inaugural ceremony in 2015 inducted local music stores, politicians and music schools, with the tradition continuing into 2023.
The Lowcountry Hall of Fame will introduce 15 artists, business owners and radio personalities into the 2023 catalogue.
Attendees can enjoy food trucks, music mastery and good times with local music lovers at the induction ceremony for the 2023 Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame at 1 p.m. Oct. 22 at the Hanahan Amphitheater, 3100 Amphitheater Ave.
It’s the last “My Charleston Weekend” of January already. Luckily, the further we get into 2024, the more and more the Lowcountry has to offer by way of events and festivals.
While, unfortunately, you can’t be everywhere at once, it’s an action-packed Saturday here in Charleston. Celebrate Commonhouse Aleworks’ sixth anniversary. Imbibe at the Charleston Winter Wine Festival or the Onesie Bar Crawl. Or whet your appetite at the 13th annual Bo’s Oyster Roast & Chili Cook Off.
Commonhouse Aleworks, 4831 O’Hear Ave., celebrates its sixth anniversary with a blowout block party and oyster roast noon-10 p.m. on Jan. 27. Enjoy the party, complete with a vendor market, a whole-hog barbecue from Swig & Swine, kettle corn, face painting and plenty of competitions, including a pinup contest, beard and mustache contest and a beer-tasting challenge. Plus, there’ll be a bevy of live music shows with well-known players such as Southern Flavor Bluegrass, the Hot Club of Charleston, Jared Petteys & The Headliners, Tommy and The Chucktown Players and Dallas Baker and Friends. If you’re curious about the beer-brewing process, check out the brewery tour as well. Attendance is free. For more info, visit bit.ly/48KWbpu.
Head down to the fifth annual Charleston Winter Wine Festival for one of two sessions, noon-4 p.m. or 6-10 p.m., on Jan. 27 at Festival Hall, 56 Beaufain St. Enjoy tastings of more than 50 different wines, mimosas and beers while jamming out to live music from Mike Huhn and DJ Brent Folks. All beverage tastings are included in the ticket price, while food is available for separate purchase. Tickets are $55 in advance or, if available, $65 at the event. Guests will receive a souvenir acrylic wine glass with the purchase of a ticket. To grab your tickets and learn more, visit bit.ly/41gIBHE.
Oysters and chili join together to fight cancer from noon to 5 p.m. Jan. 27 at James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Drive. For the 13th year in a row, the James Island Vikings will throw a cook-off to benefit Islands Against Cancer and Sara’s Cure, two local nonprofit organizations dedicated to assisting those impacted by cancer. All ages are invited to get their fill. General admission tickets are $25 and provide access to the chili cook-off and entertainment. VIP tickets, $60, include all-you-can-eat oysters. For more information and tickets, visit bosroast.com.
The fan-favorite pajama party bar crawl is back from 3 to 11 p.m. on Jan. 27 starting at Uptown Social, 587 King St. Don your favorite onesie and brave the colder weather with your peers on King Street. Included in your ticket is a free crawl koozie, discounted drink specials, cover-free priority entry to top King Street bars and, for the first 300 to finish the crawl, custom celebratory T-shirts. Plus, enjoy an afterparty at Aura Latin Club, 28 Ann St., from 8 to 11 p.m. Anyone 21 and older is invited to participate, including designated drivers who are choosing not to drink! Tickets are $29 in advance or $34 the day of the event, available at bit.ly/47Kutbd.
HANAHAN, S.C. (WCIV) — A Hanahan family is getting an outpouring of support after losing everything in a house fire.A fire spread through the Stewarts' Rembert Drive home Sunday in the blink of an eye. Neighbor Mike Hinson said he dropped what he was doing to help because he knew it was right."Meghan was in a panic," Hinson said. "I brought the kids in, found them something to watch on TV, and made them a little snack just to kind of get their minds off stuff."A fire gutting their home is just t...
HANAHAN, S.C. (WCIV) — A Hanahan family is getting an outpouring of support after losing everything in a house fire.
A fire spread through the Stewarts' Rembert Drive home Sunday in the blink of an eye. Neighbor Mike Hinson said he dropped what he was doing to help because he knew it was right.
"Meghan was in a panic," Hinson said. "I brought the kids in, found them something to watch on TV, and made them a little snack just to kind of get their minds off stuff."
A fire gutting their home is just the latest obstacle for Meghan had Bobby Stewart.
Read more: "2 mobile homes destroyed in Colleton County fire, investigation ongoing."
Meghan fought breast cancer for five years.
Bobby is recovering from surgery.
Long-time neighbor Hinson said he had to help his fellow neighbors, remembering the support the family gave him when his wife had cancer.
"Two years ago, my wife passed away, and so many people come together for me," Hinson said. "You can't give that back. She helped my wife, Sheila, get through it the best that she could. And we did the same for her, just returning what it is that we had borrowed."
His front porch is now a sort of landing zone.
People are stopping by with bags filled with clothes and shoes for the kids, toiletries, and other items.
Read more: "Firefighter falls through floor during house fire response in downtown Charleston: CFD."
All to make life a little easier for the Stewarts.
Hinson said this is what the Hanahan community is all about.
"These people right here are the people who are doing it for the right reasons," Hinson said. "You know, it's coming from the heart. All in all, if nothing else, they feel a lot of love."
A GoFundMe for the Stewarts was created. It can be seen here.
A Lowcountry staple of spring returns this week as area high school baseball teams participate in the 54th annual Hanahan Invitational Tournament (HIT), the state’s longest running spring-break high school baseball tournament.A total of 57 varsity and junior varsity baseball teams will compete at local high school venues with championships decided on Thursday at Hanahan High. The event also includes out-of-state high school programs from states such as Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and Kentucky.Among the schools...
A Lowcountry staple of spring returns this week as area high school baseball teams participate in the 54th annual Hanahan Invitational Tournament (HIT), the state’s longest running spring-break high school baseball tournament.
A total of 57 varsity and junior varsity baseball teams will compete at local high school venues with championships decided on Thursday at Hanahan High. The event also includes out-of-state high school programs from states such as Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and Kentucky.
Among the schools participating is Catawba Ridge of Rock Hill, the defending Class AAAA state champion in South Carolina. Charleston-area teams Berkeley, Summerville, James Island, and Hanahan are currently ranked in their respective classification’s top 10 polls.
The varsity teams are divided into two divisions – the Hatfield and Steadman divisions, named for former Hanahan High baseball coaches. Tom Hatfield started the HIT 54 years ago and Steadman took over and brought the event to national prominence when he became the school’s head baseball coach and athletic director.
Area high schools hosting games during the week include Hanahan, Bishop England, Wando, Berkeley, Ashley Ridge, James Island, West Ashley and Summerville.
Schools hosting junior varsity games include Cane Bay, Fort Dorchester, Stratford and Goose Creek.
Junior varsity games begin Monday morning with 21 varsity games beginning on Monday afternoon and evening.
Steadman bracket
Hanahan High site
2 p.m. - Marvin Ridge (NC) vs, Catawba Ridge
5 p.m. – Cane Bay vs. James River (Va.)
7:30 p.m. – Hanahan vs. Oscar Smith (Va.)
Bishop England site
1 p.m. – Starr’s Mill (Ga.) vs. Cox (Va.)
3:30 p.m. – Starr’s Mill vs. Lucy Beckham
6 p.m. – Bishop England vs. McCracken County (Ky.)
Wando site
5 p.m. – Fort Dorchester vs. Providence (N.C)
7:30 – Wando vs, Hickory (Va.)
Berkeley site
5 p.m. – Philip Simmons vs. Green Briar Christian (Va.)
7:30 p.m. – Berkeley vs. Woodland
Hatfield bracket
Summerville site
5 p.m. – Pinewood Prep vs. St. Pius (Ga.)
7:30 p.m. – Summerville vs. Great Bridge (Va.)
West Ashley site
2 p.m. – Catholic (Va.) vs. Trinity Christian (Ga.)
5 p.m. – Ardrey Kell (N.C.) vs. Beaufort
7:30 p.m. – West Ashley vs. St. Francis (OH)
James Island site
2 p.m. – Western Branch (Va.) vs. Stratford
5 p.m. – Hilton Head Christian vs. Timberland
7:30 p.m. – James Island vs. Hilton Head Christian
Ashley Ridge site
2 p.m. – Ben Lippen vs. Goose Creek
5 p.m. - Bamberg-Ehrhardt vs. First Colonial (Va.)
7:30 p.m. – Ashley Ridge vs. Hickory Grove (N.C.)