Answers Before You Begin

Frequently Asked Questions

Every legal matter is unique, but many people begin with similar questions. Below you’ll find answers to some of the questions we hear most often about consultations, business law, estate planning, and probate. If you don’t see your question here, we’re always happy to help.

COMPASS LAW GROUP

Getting Started

What happens after I contact Compass Law Group?

When you contact Compass Law Group, we’ll begin by learning about your situation and answering any initial questions. If we’re a good fit for your needs, we’ll schedule a consultation and provide information to help you prepare for your first meeting.

What should I bring to my first meeting?

The documents you’ll need depend on your legal matter. Before your consultation, we’ll let you know what information or paperwork will be most helpful so we can make the best use of our time together.

How much does a consultation cost?

Consultation fees vary depending on the nature of your legal matter. Please contact our office, and we’ll be happy to explain the consultation process and any applicable fees before scheduling your appointment.

What areas of law does Compass Law Group handle?

Compass Law Group focuses primarily on Business Law, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration.

Do you serve clients outside of St. Simons Island?

Yes. Compass Law Group serves clients throughout the Golden Isles, Coastal Georgia, and across the state of Georgia.

Business Law Questions

When should I talk to an attorney about my business?

The best time to speak with an attorney is before legal issues arise. Working with an attorney early can help establish the right business structure, reduce legal risk, and prepare your business for future growth.

Which business structure is right for me?

The appropriate entity depends on your business goals, ownership structure, tax considerations, and liability concerns. We’ll help you evaluate your options and determine the structure that best fits your needs.

Can you help existing businesses?

Yes. Compass Law Group works with both new and established businesses, providing legal counsel for contracts, governance, risk management, succession planning, and ongoing business matters.

What is business succession planning?

Business succession planning prepares for future ownership or leadership transitions, helping maintain continuity while protecting the long-term success of the business.

Estate Planning Questions

When should I create an estate plan?

It’s never too early to begin planning. Estate planning is beneficial for adults of all ages, especially after major life events such as marriage, the birth of a child, purchasing a home, starting a business, or approaching retirement.

Do I need a will or a trust?

The answer depends on your goals, family circumstances, assets, and how you would like your estate managed. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your situation and recommend the planning tools that best fit your needs.

How often should I update my estate plan?

Your estate plan should be reviewed whenever significant life changes occur, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, the death of a loved one, changes in your financial situation, or changes in Georgia law.

What documents are included in an estate plan?

Depending on your circumstances, an estate plan may include a will, trust, durable financial power of attorney, advance healthcare directive, healthcare power of attorney, and other planning documents.

Estate Administration & Probate Questions

What is the difference between probate, estate administration, and trust administration?

Probate is a court-supervised process that may be required to settle an estate. Estate administration is the broader process of settling a person’s affairs and administering estate assets after death. Trust administration is the process a trustee follows to manage and distribute assets held in a trust according to its terms.

Does every estate go through probate?

Not every estate requires probate. Whether probate is necessary depends on factors such as how assets are titled, the types of assets involved, and whether other estate planning tools are in place.

How long does probate take?

Every estate is different. The length of probate depends on factors such as the size and complexity of the estate, creditor claims, court timelines, and whether disputes arise.

What does an executor or administrator do?

Executors and administrators are responsible for administering an estate according to Georgia law. Responsibilities may include filing court documents, identifying and protecting assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and expenses, and distributing property to beneficiaries.

What happens if someone dies without a will?

When someone dies without a valid will, Georgia law determines who is entitled to inherit the estate. An administrator may need to be appointed to handle the estate administration process.

What is a trust?

A trust is a legal arrangement that holds and manages assets for the benefit of designated beneficiaries. The person responsible for managing the trust, known as the trustee, must administer the assets according to the terms of the trust.

What does a trustee do?

A trustee is responsible for administering assets held in a trust according to the trust’s terms. Responsibilities may include managing trust assets, communicating with beneficiaries, addressing financial and legal obligations, and making distributions.

Does a trust have to go through probate?

Assets properly held in a trust generally can be administered outside of probate. Whether probate is also necessary depends on how other assets are titled and the circumstances of the estate.

Still Have Questions?

If you don’t see your question here, we’d be happy to help.

Every legal situation is different, and the best place to begin is often a conversation. Contact Compass Law Group to schedule a consultation and discuss your specific circumstances.

From Compass Points

Some questions deserve a deeper conversation. Others deserve a deeper answer.

Discover Compass Points, our collection of articles designed to help individuals, families, and business owners better understand legal topics, prepare for important decisions, and stay informed as life changes.