Frequently Asked Questions

1.  How do I make an appointment?   Please call 843-875-1109.

2.  Is the initial consultation free?  The initial consultation is not free.  

3. How long has the attorney been practicing law?  Attorney Donna V. Sands has been practicing law since 1993. 

4.  Where should I keep my original legal documents and other important papers?  It is recommended that you use a safe deposit box with a local bank or a fire proof safe at home.  

5.  How often should I update my Will and other legal documents?  It is recommended that you review your documents every 3 years and update them when changes in your situation or the law indicates it is time to update them.   

6.  What are some reason to update my Will and other documents? If you move out of state, have a change in your marital status, or if a family member named in your document dies or becomes incapacitated, then it may be time to update your documents. 

7.  Are there ways to avoid probate?  Yes, there are ways to avoid probate which will be discussed during the initial consultation. 

8.  What is probate?  Probate is a legal process which is intended to allow creditors to be paid and probate assets distributed to the persons entitled to those assets under the terms of the decedent's Will.

9.  What if the decedent did not leave a valid Will?  When a person dies in South Carolina without a valid Will, the laws of South Carolina are used to determine who are the lawful heirs of the decedent. 

10.  Are all assets subject to probate? No, not all assets are subject to probate.  

11.  My family member is getting a little forgetful and I am concerned that they may need help making decisions in the future.  What should they do?  Your loved one should consult with a knowledgeable attorney for assistance with estate planning and elder law to address these concerns. 

12.  My loved one is no longer able to make or communicate reasoned decisions regarding their person or property.  What should I do?  You should consult with a knowledgeable attorney about your loved one's situation. 

 This site does not create an attorney-client relationship and it is not  intended for detailed legal advice. Each person's situation is different. Mrs. Sands is a licensed attorney in South  Carolina.   Attorney Donna V. Sands is not a certified estate planning attorney.