S.C. Code Ann. § 62-3-102: Necessity of order of probate for will.

Except as provided in Section 62-3-1201 and except as to a will that has been admitted to probate in another jurisdiction which is filed as provided in Article 4, to be effective to prove the transfer of any property or to nominate a personal representative, a will must be declared to be valid by an order of informal probate by the court or an adjudication of probate by the court.