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 Cobb Hammett 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 Greenville, 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 Cobb Hammett, 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 Cobb Hammett 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 Greenville, 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 Cobb Hammett, 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 Cobb Hammett 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, Cobb Hammett 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 Greenville, 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 Greenville, 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 Greenville, 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 Cobb Hammett 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 Cobb Hammett, LLC, our team of experienced probate lawyers in Greenville, 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 Cobb Hammett, LLC, today.
Clemson football can end a trying 2025 season on a positive note in the annual rivalry game against South Carolina on Nov. 29 in Columbia.The Tigers (6-5, 4-4 ACC) is bowl eligible after last week's win against Furman and can guarantee a record above .500 with a victory over the Gamecocks.South Carolina (4-7, 1-7 SEC) is playing only for the pride of winning in this rivalry for the second straight year and for the first time in Williams-Brice Stadium since 2013.Here's how to watch the Clemson football vs. South Carolina ...
Clemson football can end a trying 2025 season on a positive note in the annual rivalry game against South Carolina on Nov. 29 in Columbia.
The Tigers (6-5, 4-4 ACC) is bowl eligible after last week's win against Furman and can guarantee a record above .500 with a victory over the Gamecocks.
South Carolina (4-7, 1-7 SEC) is playing only for the pride of winning in this rivalry for the second straight year and for the first time in Williams-Brice Stadium since 2013.
Here's how to watch the Clemson football vs. South Carolina game today, including time, TV schedule and streaming information:
Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!Clemson vs. South Carolina will broadcast nationally on the SEC Network in Week 14 of the 2025 college football season. Taylor Zarzour and Matt Stinchcomb will call the game from the booth at Williams-Brice Stadium, with Alyssa Lang reporting from the field. Streaming options for the game include FUBO, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.
Why Clemson's Tom Allen has been game planning for LaNorris Sellers since he was hiredThe Clemson football vs. South Carolina game starts at 12 p.m. ET on Nov. 29 from Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.
Greenville News Clemson reporter Derrian Carter's prediction: Clemson 20, South Carolina 17
The last two games between these two programs have been low scoring, and this year's game will be the same. Both defenses will dominate throughout the game, but a game-winning drive by Klubnik will propel the Tigers to their fourth straight win.
South Carolina's strength of schedule prepare them well for high-stake matchups and even though Clemson is on a win-streak, the Gamecocks play a complete game to get win No. 5, feeding off the energy Mike Furrey brings to the offense.
Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Friday, Nov. 28
Record: 6-5, 4-4 ACC
Record: 4-7, 1-7 SEC
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Data center operator DartPoints plans to up the capacity of its Greenville center by 400%.But unlike the super centers popping up around the Palmetto State, each gobbling upwards of 100 megawatts of power, DartPoints’ growth is on a much smaller scale — 12.5 megawatts, up from a 2.5-megawatt starting point.The company pledged this month to invest $125 million in the expansion of its Greenville location, adding 88,000 square feet to the facility.At the heart of the company’s expansion: artificial intelli...
Data center operator DartPoints plans to up the capacity of its Greenville center by 400%.
But unlike the super centers popping up around the Palmetto State, each gobbling upwards of 100 megawatts of power, DartPoints’ growth is on a much smaller scale — 12.5 megawatts, up from a 2.5-megawatt starting point.
The company pledged this month to invest $125 million in the expansion of its Greenville location, adding 88,000 square feet to the facility.
At the heart of the company’s expansion: artificial intelligence.
DartPoints’ customers are now demanding three times the capacity and computing power compared to just a year or so ago, CEO Scott Willis told the SC Daily Gazette.
“AI potentially has the opportunity to change their business in a very dramatic way. We’ve got to come along with that,” he said.
Companies are turning to AI bots to run customer care chats. Robots in manufacturing are becoming more autonomous. And from a health care perspective, hospital systems are offering more computer-heavy remote services, with wearable devices that track vitals like heart rate and blood sugar, Willis said.
So expanding is essential, he said, if DartPoints wants its centers to remain relevant over the next five years.
“It is no longer a ‘nice to have.’ It’s a requirement, on our part, to understand that change, anticipate that change,” Willis said.
DartPoints has operated data centers in South Carolina for more than a decade. With locations in Columbia, Spartanburg and Charleston, as well as Greenville, the state is the Dallas-headquartered company’s largest market.
To finance its expansion in South Carolina, as well as in Ohio and Indiana, DartPoints secured a $250 million investment from a pair of partners earlier this year.
“South Carolina is a great business environment,” Willis said. “It’s a great state, positioned within the Southeast. It’s growing massively in terms of attracting businesses, and we want to participate in that.”
But consumer groups and politicians have pushed back against the proliferation of data centers over the past couple years. Most of that ire is aimed at so-called hyperscale centers, owned and operated by tech giants such as Google and Meta.
These windowless centers, which house rows of servers, are among the largest drivers of growing power needs in the state, generating vast demand for electricity on top of the needs of an ever-growing manufacturing and population base.
Willis is quick to point out not all data centers are the same.
For starters, he said, utilities already have the kind of capacity on their system that DartPoints requires.
“We are a non-invasive partner inside the state,” Willis said. “We don’t disrupt the demand of the grid. We’re not asking Duke (Energy) or other utilities to invest a significant amount of money that could result in price increases for the overall citizens of the state of South Carolina.”
DartPoints also tends to serve customers that require a bit more privacy and control over their IT systems.
The company specializes in private, dedicated servers that its customers can access remotely, with guarantees that the computing power will always be available for that customer’s use. Turning to Google or Microsoft or Amazon Web Services, businesses share space on those companies’ servers, using what’s known as a public cloud system, Willis said.
If a DartPoints customer wants even more control, they can choose to have their own servers caged within a DartPoints facility that only that company’s employees have access to. DartPoints simply supplies the space and power it takes to operate and cool the equipment.
Before DartPoints moved into the state, Willis said, companies had to turn to major providers in big cities, such as Atlanta, Charlotte or Nashville or major computing hubs in northern Virginia, for these serices.
Now, companies have a local option that often comes at a lower cost because they don’t have to lay down lines of fiber to get connected to a distant center. The computing speeds are also faster because companies don’t have to wait for their data to travel longer distances over the network, a major bonus as more are turning to artificial intelligence.
In all, DartPoints has about 300 customers that use its four South Carolina data centers, Willis told legislators last September. Those companies collectively generate $60 billion in revenue within the state and employ about 140,000 people.
DartPoints’ customer base mirrors the state’s major economic sectors — manufacturing, health care, some financial institutions and state and local government, as well as higher education.
“DartPoints’ growth in Greenville shows how innovation and infrastructure investment go hand in hand,” Gov. Henry McMaster said in a statement. “This project reinforces South Carolina’s position as a destination for technology-driven business and demonstrates how our state can support advanced digital operations with the power, talent and collaboration they require to thrive.”
Construction is underway and the additional space is expected to be operational in July 2027.
The company does not publicize how many people it employs in South Carolina but pledged 10 new jobs as part of the expansion.
After Greenville, Willis said, DartPoints will turn its attention to growing its Columbia center, located within the South Carolina Research Authority Innovation Center. Details on that expansion are forthcoming, he said.
South Carolina football returns home to face Coastal Carolina on Nov. 22 at Williams-Brice Stadium.The Gamecocks (3-7, 1-7 SEC) blew a 27-point halftime lead in a 31-30 loss at Texas A&M to erase any chance at six wins and a bowl berth.Coastal Carolina (6-4, 5-2 Sun Belt) lost out on a possible Sun Belt East division title game with James Madison next week after losing 45-40 to Georgia Southern last week.Here's how to watch the South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina game today, including time, TV schedule and s...
South Carolina football returns home to face Coastal Carolina on Nov. 22 at Williams-Brice Stadium.
The Gamecocks (3-7, 1-7 SEC) blew a 27-point halftime lead in a 31-30 loss at Texas A&M to erase any chance at six wins and a bowl berth.
Coastal Carolina (6-4, 5-2 Sun Belt) lost out on a possible Sun Belt East division title game with James Madison next week after losing 45-40 to Georgia Southern last week.
Here's how to watch the South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina game today, including time, TV schedule and streaming information:
Coastal Carolina vs. South Carolina will broadcast nationally on SEC Network in Week 13 of the 2025 college football season. Dave Neal and Fozzy Whittaker will call the game from the booth at Williams-Brice Stadium, with Morgan Uber reporting from the sidelines. Streaming options for the game include FUBO, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.
The South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina game starts at 4:15 p.m. ET Saturday from Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.
Greenville News reporter Lulu Kesin's prediction: South Carolina 38, Coastal Carolina 17
The players made it clear after the Texas A&M loss that there's still games to win and plays to make even if a bowl game is out of the picture. That said, they learned many times this season all that matters is who has more points at the end of the game, and it should be the Gamecocks.
Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Friday, Nov. 21
Record: 3-7, 1-7 SEC
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GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. —Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis is speaking about recent rumors surrounding the presence of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the Upstate."We're ready for those conversations. We have talks with our federal partners. We don't have any reason to believe at all that they won't come here. I can tell you that. But we don't know when. We don't know how that will take place," the sheriff said in a Friday episode of his "Roll Call" pod...
GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. —
Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis is speaking about recent rumors surrounding the presence of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the Upstate.
"We're ready for those conversations. We have talks with our federal partners. We don't have any reason to believe at all that they won't come here. I can tell you that. But we don't know when. We don't know how that will take place," the sheriff said in a Friday episode of his "Roll Call" podcast.
He said South Carolina has more than 70,000 undocumented immigrants.
"That's the best number we can come up with. Nobody has the resources to start pulling people off the street and putting them in a detention facility and calling ICE," Lewis said.
During his "Roll Call" podcast, the sheriff said his office is part of the 287 G program, meaning it will partner with federal officials, but wouldn't be partaking in making immigration-specific arrests.
"Are you going to see Greenville County sheriff's deputies going into schools or businesses or homes and just doing a massive round-up?" asked co-host Carrie Weimer. "No, that is not happening," he responded.
As for people seeing immigration service vehicles in the upstate, Lewis said that's nothing new.
"We have an immigration office here in Greer, which is between Greenville in Spartanburg. We've had agents here for many, many years," he said.
He also advises the public should carry documentation with them, confirming immigration status, or proof of the process.
"If I were in that situation and everything that was going on in this country, I would absolutely have some documentation. 'I'm in the process of going through the citizenship program and where I am in that process," he said, "These are verified gang members. These are not people who overstayed their visa. These are not people who are here on a work visa or education visa. That's not who they're going after."
Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the sheriff's office via email at [email protected].
If you plan to travel for Thanksgiving over the weekend or early next week, be sure to pack an umbrella and an extra sweater just in case.South Carolina and much of the East Coast are bracing for a storm system moving northeast, bringing mild temperatures and possible rain as far south as the Carolinas."A storm will impact much of the eastern two-thirds of the United States during the busiest travel times ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday as millions hit the highways and head for the airports," said AccuWeather meteor...
If you plan to travel for Thanksgiving over the weekend or early next week, be sure to pack an umbrella and an extra sweater just in case.
South Carolina and much of the East Coast are bracing for a storm system moving northeast, bringing mild temperatures and possible rain as far south as the Carolinas.
"A storm will impact much of the eastern two-thirds of the United States during the busiest travel times ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday as millions hit the highways and head for the airports," said AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Sosnowski.
The latest forecast shows a pattern change from the beginning of November, with the eastern United States expected to see milder temperatures at the end of the month.
"Following a warm start to November in the West and a cold start in the East, a significant pattern change is likely later in the month and into early December," the Climate Prediction Center wrote. "During Thanksgiving week, a colder pattern is likely for the West and the Northern Plains while milder air overspreads the East."
Here's a look at what to expect from South Carolina's weather and whether it could impede holiday travel.
Predictions for Thanksgiving week have Upstate South Carolina on the edge of storms expected to impact travel for the holiday.
The National Weather Service forecast on Nov. 21 has rain moving into the Greenville and Upstate area starting on Friday night, Nov. 21, and continuing into Saturday, Nov. 22, but chances are it will be small showers. Moving into the holiday week, people could see even more rain showers on Nov. 25 and 26, with it clearing out for Thanksgiving Day.
The Upstate could see cooler-than-normal temperatures starting on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 27, with highs expected to reach the high 50s, but it will be sunny, according to the National Weather Service.
If you plan to fly or drive a long distance, you may encounter travel delays.
The storm system is expected to hit a large swath of the United States, causing delays due to thunderstorms in the South. If you are headed further north, beware, there could be snow. Here's the latest:
By Wednesday, Nov. 26, "it seems plausible that thunderstorms could impact travel through Atlanta or Florida," said Houston-based meteorologist Matt Lanza on his blog "The Eyewall." "Winds could impact flights in Chicago and Minneapolis," he said.
By Wednesday, Nov. 26, "the storm will be losing some of its intensity and moisture as it travels from the central states to the Northeast, but given the travel volume, even a few hours of rain can create significant problems on the roads and runways from Washington, D.C., to Philadelphia, New York City and Boston," noted AccuWeather meteorologist Paul Pastelok in an online forecast.
You may be entitled to a refund. Here's what to knowWe are getting closer to the months when the polar vortex starts to stir, bringing cold temperatures to the South. But the stormy weather and slightly cooler temperatures we expect to see ahead of Thanksgiving Day aren't part of it.
The polar vortex is not a synonym for "cold snap," according to the Polar Vortex Blog at Climate.gov, and it’s not the only weather pattern to blame for blasts of cold air.
The polar vortex is a gigantic, circular area of cold air high up in the atmosphere that usually spins over the North Pole.
It's a normal pattern that's stronger in the winter and usually keeps the coldest weather bottled up near the North Pole when it is "strong." If the polar vortex weakens or even splits, frigid air pushes southward toward the U.S.
Arctic air masses originate over the Arctic or Antarctic regions and are very cold. They invade lower latitudes at irregular intervals, according to the weather service.
This arctic air tends to be colder than polar air.
The polar vortex is a large area of low-pressure and cold air surrounding both of the Earth’s poles, according to the weather service. It always exists near the poles.
Slim.
On average, South Carolina sees around 4 inches of snow per year, according to data from the National Weather Service. But for the 2025-26 winter, the predicted above-average temperatures could keep the white stuff at bay.
While the weather agency makes these predictions every year, they are the most likely scenario for weather patterns. People should always check local forecasts for the most up-to-date weather.
The weather service's outlook for precipitation shows parts of the Upstate have a slightly below-average chance of winter precipitation, and as you head further south and east, the chance of precipitation becomes slimmer.
The first day of winter is Dec. 21, 2025, at 10:03 a.m., according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.
Joyce Orlando is the Carolina Connect Editor and covers trending topics in North and South Carolina.
Nina Tran and USA TODAY contributed to this report.