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Law Office of Dundee W. Carter, LLC | Assigned Counsel

Addressing the legal needs of seniors

The Law Office of Dundee W. Carter is proud to serve individuals who need strong, competent legal representation during some of the most challenging times in their lives. In many South Carolina legal proceedings—particularly those involving guardianships, vulnerable adults, minors, or individuals with mental illness—the court may appoint an attorney to represent someone who cannot advocate for themselves.

These court-appointed attorneys, also known as assigned counsel, play an essential role in ensuring that every person receives fair treatment and that their legal rights are protected throughout the judicial process.

When is an Attorney Appointed by the Court?

Court-appointed counsel is typically assigned in situations where the individual involved is unable to secure legal representation on their own, often due to mental incapacity, financial hardship, or legal status.

Common types of cases include:
Guardianship and Conservatorship Matters

Vulnerable Adults: If an adult’s decision-making capacity is in question, the court must appoint both an attorney and a guardian ad litem (GAL) to represent their rights and best interests.

Minors: When a minor is subject to guardianship proceedings and lacks separate representation, the court will appoint an attorney to ensure their voice is heard.

Child Protection and Family Court Hearings

Children: In abuse or neglect cases, the court appoints both an attorney and a GAL to safeguard the child’s rights and welfare.

Indigent Parents: Parents involved in child protection cases who cannot afford an attorney are entitled to court-appointed legal representation to ensure due process.

Mental Health Hearings

Involuntary Commitment: Individuals facing commitment due to mental illness have the right to an attorney to defend their liberty and help them navigate the legal complexities.

State Representation: In these proceedings, the Attorney General may appoint legal counsel to represent the interests of the state as well.

What does a Court-Appointed Attorney do?

A court-appointed attorney serves as a dedicated legal advocate, often stepping in during some of the most critical and sensitive moments in a person’s life. Appointed by the court to ensure fairness and due process, they play a crucial role in cases where individuals may be unable to secure legal representation on their own—such as minors, vulnerable adults, or those facing complex legal challenges. With a focus on equity and justice, court-appointed attorneys work to ensure that every individual—regardless of their circumstances—has access to meaningful representation and a fair opportunity to be heard.

Responsibilities include:
  • Conducting legal research and preparing for hearings.
  • Meeting with and advising their client about the legal process and their rights.
  • Representing the client in court proceedings.
  • Ensuring the client’s voice, preferences, and rights are considered in all legal decisions.
  • Working alongside Guardians ad Litem and other court-appointed professionals to ensure well-rounded, informed recommendations are made to the court.

Protecting Rights Through Compassionate Legal Representation

Attorney Dundee W. Carter is honored to serve as assigned counsel in cases heard in South Carolina Probate Courts and other judicial forums. With a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding guardianships, conservatorships, mental health law, and child protection, Dundee provides strong legal advocacy while maintaining a compassionate, client-centered approach.

Whether representing a child in a court matter, a vulnerable adult in a guardianship case, or an individual navigating a mental health hearing, Dundee is committed to ensuring every client receives the advocacy and protection they deserve.

The Law Office of Dundee Carter, LLC

Contact Information

Location

Murrells Inlet, SC

Mailing Address

PO Box 182
325 Unit A Pine Avenue
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Office Hours

Monday – Thursday: 8AM-5PM
Friday: 8AM-12PM

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Let us help you put a plan in place that protects what matters most.  Contact us to schedule a consultation—by phone, virtually, or in person.