Wills Myrtle Beach

Wills and Estate Planning in South Carolina

If you have even a small estate in Myrtle Beach, you will want to determine what will happen to your property and assets after death. A will is one of the most important aspects of estate planning. Many people go through attorneys when drawing up wills and trusts, but the law allows for anyone who is capable to create their own will or trust. If you are a resident of Myrtle Beach, SC, you can use our services to get a will or trust notarized, which can have advantages to your beneficiaries when the time comes to carry out your final wishes.

What Happens When Someone Dies Without a Will?

Upon the death of a person without a will, it is up to the state to distribute personal property and assets. The law will generally award property to the family, though it may not be distributed according to the person’s wishes. Even a simple will can help make sure your wishes are respected after you are gone.

 

In the event that you are incapacitated and can no longer communicate your desires, a living will is your only way to convey your preferences to your family – and it could be a legal requirement to provide one in order to proceed as you would want.

Requirements of a Will

Wills and living wills must meet certain legal requirements, or it will not be enforced by a probate court. The will must meet the following conditions:

  • You must sign the will of your own accord – you cannot be under duress or the influence of others.
  • You must be of sound mind.
  • You must sign in front of witnesses – in South Carolina, the will needs to be signed and dated in front of two witnesses who are not the clients children, relatives, or set to benefit from the will.

Following these requirements will help you meet the goals you have for your estate and legacy, whether you choose to work with a law firm or produce the will yourself.

Notarizing a Will

It is not a requirement of South Carolina state law that wills and trusts be notarized, but clients can attach to the will a notarized affidavit that declares that the will was duly witnessed and expresses the wishes of the undersigned. In this way, a will or trust is legal without the need to locate the two witnesses.

This step of the process may make it easier for your children and family to execute the will, avoid probate, and divide assets and personal property according to your wishes. We can assist you with wills, living wills, and trusts by witnessing and notarizing your signature on these documents, and we will inform and advise you throughout the notary process. That way, your will and estate plan are legal and easy to execute when the time comes.

Notary Public in Myrtle Beach, SC

After you have completed your estate planning, wills, and trusts, contact us at our Myrtle Beach, SC office for your notarizing needs. We provide a clean, professional environment and notaries with years of experience notarizing wills and similar legal documents in South Carolina. We will be happy to help you through the fast and simple process of notarizing your will, which may make it easier for your children or other beneficiaries to divide your estate and assets according to your wishes and goals.

We are based in Myrtle Beach, SC and serve all the areas surrounding Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. We welcome you to contact with any questions you may have.