Deputy Clerk of Probate

Beaufort County; Bluffton (SC); On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Beaufort County seeks a detail‑oriented estate clerk to manage and sustain estate files, review and prepare legal documents to SC standards, and assist the public with estate matters. The role operates under general supervision with independent work sequencing.

The position requires an Associate’s degree or equivalent training and 1–2 years of related experience, plus notary public certification and a valid SC driver’s license. Strong accuracy and public interaction skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Requires an Associate’s degree, vocational technical degree or specialized training equivalent to two years of college education.
• Over one year and up to two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Responsibilities

• Acts as a liaison between the court and the public, attorneys, and probate clerks.
• Reviews files to ensure accuracy and hearing readiness and that all procedures are followed.
• Reviews Small Estate Affidavits for accuracy and completeness, noting heirs.
• Reviews e-filed Motions and Orders to determine hearing needs or judge approval by submission.
• Makes payments to attorneys, judges and court visitors for services.
• Answers calls from attorneys and citizens regarding probate matters.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Skills

Liaison skills

Attention to detail

Document review

Education

Associate’s degree or two years of college

Job description

Description

The purpose of this position is to manage and sustain estate files, review and produce legal documents to meet the most up to date South Carolina (SC) standards, provide document management and assist the public with estate matters. This class works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences.

Examples of Duties

• Acts as a liaison between the court and the general public as well as attorneys and the probate clerks on a daily basis.
• Reviews files to ensure accuracy and completeness prior to the hearing to ensure all legal procedures have been followed and all party’s property notified.
• Reviews Small Estate Affidavits for accuracy and completeness. Most are pro se therefore leaving room for error or leaving heirs out that should inherit.
• Reviews e-filed Motions and Orders to determine if a hearing is needed or the Judge can sign by submission.
• Makes payments to attorneys, Associate Judges and court visitors for their services.
• Answers phone calls from attorneys and the citizens regarding probate matters.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Typical Qualifications

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Requires an Associate’s degree, vocational technical degree or specialized training that is equivalent to satisfactory completion of two years of college education.
• Over one year and up to and including two years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Special Certifications And Licenses

• Notary Public.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.

Supplemental Information

All applicants tentatively selected for a position with Beaufort County Council will be required to submit to urinalysis to screen for the illegal use of drugs and to a background check prior to appointment. Employment is contingent upon clearing both the drug screening and background investigation. Beaufort County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term & short-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

To learn more details, please visit the Beaufort County Human Resources website.