Estate Planning: The estate planning process is initiated by discussing the goals and concerns you have regarding your estate. Our attorneys will get to know you and asked detailed questions about your assets, family structure, who you want to inherit your property when you pass away. We’ll also discuss who you want to manage your affairs should you become incapacitated. Once we’ve developed a plan, we’ll reduce it to writing and execute your Estate Plan, which typically includes a Last Will & Testament, Durable Power of Attorney, and Healthcare Power of Attorney (Living Will). Please call The Peper Law Firm today to discuss your estate plan.
Estate Administration: When a loved one passes away, their estate goes through a process called probate, regardless of whether they had a Will (testate) or didn’t have a Will (intestate). Probate is the court process of administering an estate and making sure a decedent’s property is properly managed and distributed according to their Will or heirs at law. Attorneys Mark Peper and Brenna Wiles were judicial law clerks for The Honorable Irvin G. Condon and the Charleston County Probate Court, so let our experienced team help you administer your loved one’s estate.
Estate Litigation: Probate litigation arises when family members and other loved ones believe they have been wronged. Anyone has the ability to challenge a Will or make a claim against the estate, so litigation allows the Court to rule on the issue. Our attorneys litigate regularly in all areas of practice, so provide the experience of being in the courtroom that most probate lawyers lack. Our attorneys are experienced in will contests, creditor’s claims, determination of heirs, and many other contentious disputes that require probate litigation both by a judge and a jury.
Guardian/Conservator: A guardian is appointed by the court to make decisions for another person, to include a minor child or incapacitated adult who can no longer care for or make important decisions for themselves. A guardian makes decisions daily decisions concerning the person’s healthcare and living arrangements. A conservator is also appointed by the court but its role is limited to handling the financial affairs of someone who is unable to do so on their own. A conservator works hand in hand with the guardian to pay for healthcare of the incapacitated individual or minor child, and in some instances, the same individual can serve as both the guardian and conservator. Both are required to report to the Probate Court on a yearly basis, in the least. Contact the Peper Law Firm today to learn more about navigating this extremely important yet difficult and time consuming process.