How Long Does a Divorce Take in South Carolina

May 5, 2023 Amanda

How Long Does a Divorce Take in South Carolina

Divorce Type	Time Required
Uncontested Divorce	3 months minimum
Contested Divorce	6 months to several years
High Asset Divorce	1 to 2 years
Divorce with Children	Up to 1 year
Mediated Divorce	3 to 6 months

Overview of Divorce Process in South Carolina

Grounds for Divorce: In South Carolina, you can file for divorce based on one year of continuous separation or fault-based grounds such as adultery, physical cruelty, habitual drunkenness or drug abuse.
Filing: To start the divorce process, one spouse must file a summons and complaint with their local family court. The other spouse will then have thirty days to respond to these documents.
Mediation/Court Proceedings: If both parties agree on all terms of the divorce (such as property division and child custody), they may proceed directly to finalization. Otherwise, mediation or court proceedings may be necessary to resolve any disagreements.
Finalization: Once all issues have been resolved either through agreement or litigation, a judge will sign off on a final decree of divorce which legally dissolves the marriage.

The length of time it takes to complete this entire process varies depending on individual circumstances such as whether there are children involved or if there are contested issues that need resolution. On average however, it typically takes around three months from filing until finalization in South Carolina.

Definition of divorce

No-Fault Divorce: In South Carolina, couples can file for no-fault divorce based on one year of continuous separation without cohabitation. This means that neither spouse has to prove any wrongdoing by the other party in order to end the marriage.
Fault-Based Divorce: If one spouse’s actions contributed to the breakdown of the marriage (such as adultery or abuse), they may be grounds for fault-based divorce. However, proving fault can be difficult and costly.

It is important to note that while divorce ends a legal contract between spouses, it does not necessarily mean an end to their relationship if they have children together. Co-parenting after divorce requires communication and cooperation from both parties in order to create a stable environment for their children.

Grounds for divorce in South Carolina

In South Carolina, there are two types of grounds for divorce: no-fault and fault-based. Here is a breakdown of each:

No-Fault Divorce: The most common ground for divorce in South Carolina is one year of continuous separation without cohabitation. This means that neither spouse has to prove any wrongdoing by the other party in order to end the marriage.
Fault-Based Divorce: If one spouse’s actions contributed to the breakdown of the marriage (such as adultery or abuse), they may be grounds for fault-based divorce. However, proving fault can be difficult and costly.

It is important to note that choosing fault-based grounds does not necessarily mean a faster or easier divorce process, as it often requires additional evidence and court proceedings.

Types of divorce in South Carolina

In addition, there is also Collaborative Divorce which is an alternative dispute resolution method where both parties work with their respective attorneys to negotiate an agreement outside of court.

No matter what type of divorce you choose, it is important to seek legal guidance from a qualified attorney who can help guide you through the process and protect your rights throughout.

Filing for Divorce in South Carolina

Once the summons and complaint are filed, they must be served to the other spouse who then has thirty days to respond. If there are no contested issues, the parties may proceed directly to finalization. However, if there are disputes regarding child custody or property division, mediation or court proceedings may be necessary.

It is important to note that hiring an experienced family law attorney can greatly assist with navigating the complex legal process of divorce and ensure your rights and interests are protected throughout all stages of the proceeding.

Requirements for filing

Before filing for divorce in South Carolina, there are certain requirements that must be met:

Residency: At least one spouse must have been a resident of South Carolina for at least three months prior to filing.
Separation: If seeking no-fault divorce based on separation, the spouses must have lived apart from each other without cohabitation for at least one year.

In addition to meeting these requirements, it is important to gather all necessary documentation before beginning the divorce process. This may include:

A copy of your marriage certificate
A list of all shared assets and debts
Copies of any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
Documentation related to child custody and support (if applicable)

Filing process and fees

In terms of fees associated with divorce in South Carolina:

Court Filing Fee: The cost to file for divorce in South Carolina is $150 which covers the filing fee and service fee (to serve papers).
Attorney Fees: If you decide to hire an attorney to represent you during the process of obtaining a divorce then their fees will vary depending on how complex your case is and other factors such as whether it is contested or uncontested.

It’s important to note that these costs are just an estimate and can vary based on individual circumstances. Additionally, some couples may choose alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation instead of going through traditional litigation which could lead to lower overall expenses.

Serving divorce papers

Failing to respond within this timeframe could result in a default judgment being entered against them. It is important for both parties to understand their rights and obligations during this process and seek legal advice if necessary.

Waiting Periods in South Carolina

The length of time it takes to complete a divorce in South Carolina depends on many factors such as whether or not there are children involved or if there are any contested issues that require court proceedings. However, regardless of these circumstances, South Carolina’s mandatory minimum waiting periods must always be observed when seeking a divorce.

Separation period requirement

It’s important to note that while the spouses may live in separate households during this time, there are some exceptions to what constitutes “separation” under South Carolina law. For example:

If both parties continue to occupy the same residence but maintain separate bedrooms and do not engage in marital relations, it may still be considered a legal separation.
Temporary absences (such as for work or vacation) do not interrupt the one-year timeline unless they were intended as an abandonment of the marriage by one spouse.

If you’re unsure whether your situation meets South Carolina’s requirements for a legal separation prior to divorce, it’s recommended that you consult with an experienced family law attorney who can advise you on your specific circumstances.

Waiting period after filing

After filing for divorce in South Carolina, there is a mandatory waiting period before the finalization of the divorce. Here are some key points to know about this waiting period:

The length of the waiting period depends on whether you filed for no-fault or fault-based divorce.
No-Fault Divorce: If you and your spouse agree to a one-year continuous separation without cohabitation as grounds for your divorce, then this will be the length of your waiting period.
Fault-Based Divorce: If you file based on fault (such as adultery or physical cruelty), then there is no required waiting period. However, proving fault can be difficult and costly.

It’s important to note that even if all issues are resolved between spouses prior to reaching the end of their respective wait periods, they cannot obtain a final decree until it has elapsed. For example, if both parties agree on all terms after six months of separation in a no-fault case but have not yet reached one year from their date of separation when they attempt to finalize their case with Family Court – they will need to wait another six months before obtaining a final decree.

Contested vs uncontested divorce waiting periods

Uncontested Divorce: If both parties agree on all terms of the divorce (such as property division and child custody), they may proceed directly to finalization. In this case, there is typically a minimum 90-day waiting period from filing until finalization.
Contested Divorce: If there are disagreements between spouses that cannot be resolved through mediation, court proceedings may be necessary to resolve any issues. In this case, the length of time it takes for the divorce process to complete will depend on individual circumstances such as complexity of issues and availability of court dates.

If you are considering divorce in South Carolina, it is important to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process and help ensure your rights are protected throughout every stage.

Temporary Hearings and Mediation

Temporary hearings and mediation are both part of the divorce process in South Carolina. Here is what you need to know about each:

Temporary Hearings: Sometimes, temporary orders may be necessary while the divorce proceedings are ongoing. This can include things like child support, custody arrangements, or spousal support. Temporary hearings allow a judge to make these decisions until a final agreement is reached.
Mediation: If both parties cannot come to an agreement on all terms of the divorce (such as property division and child custody), they may attend mediation sessions with a neutral third-party mediator who can help facilitate discussions and negotiations. Mediation can often save time and money compared to going through court proceedings.

If mediation does not result in an agreement between both parties, then court proceedings will continue until all issues have been resolved and a final decree of divorce is issued by a judge.

Temporary hearing process

Filing: Either spouse can request a temporary hearing by filing a motion with the court.
Notice: The other spouse must receive notice of the hearing and have an opportunity to respond.
Hearing: A judge will hear both sides’ arguments and issue temporary orders as necessary. These orders may cover issues such as child custody, visitation schedules, spousal support or alimony, and property division during the separation period.

It’s important to note that these temporary orders are not permanent and can be modified at any time before or after the final divorce decree is issued if circumstances change significantly. Additionally, it’s always recommended that each party seeks legal representation from experienced attorneys who can advocate on their behalf throughout this process.

Mediation process

Mediation is a process that can help couples reach an agreement on contested issues without having to go through court proceedings. Here’s what you need to know about mediation in South Carolina:

Voluntary: Mediation is voluntary, which means both parties must agree to participate.
Neutral third-party: A mediator acts as a neutral third-party and helps facilitate communication between the spouses in order to reach an agreement on issues such as child custody, visitation schedules, and property division.
Confidential: Mediation sessions are confidential and cannot be used as evidence in court if the parties are unable to reach an agreement.

If mediation is successful and both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, they may proceed directly to finalization. However, if there are still unresolved issues after mediation, then court proceedings may be necessary.

Finalizing Divorce in South Carolina

It is important for both parties to review and understand all aspects of their settlement before signing off on it. Additionally, any modifications after the fact will require additional legal procedures that can prolong the process further. Overall, it is recommended that couples seek professional advice from attorneys who specialize in family law when going through this often-complex process in South Carolina.

Final hearing process

Once all issues have been resolved either through agreement or litigation, the final step in the divorce process is the final hearing. Here are some things to know about this process:

Attendance: Both parties must attend the final hearing. If one party fails to show up, it could delay the process.
Presentation of Agreement: If both parties agree on all terms of their divorce (such as property division and child custody), they will present a written agreement to the judge for approval.
Judge’s Approval: The judge will review and approve or modify the proposed agreement based on South Carolina law before signing off on a final decree of divorce which legally dissolves the marriage.

If there are contested issues that could not be resolved outside of court, such as child custody or spousal support, these issues may be presented at trial during the final hearing for determination by a judge.

Property division and spousal support

In addition to dividing property and debts, spousal support (also known as alimony) may also be awarded during a divorce in South Carolina. Here are some important points about spousal support:

Spousal support is typically awarded based on one spouse’s financial need and the other’s ability to pay.
The court will consider factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and their standard of living before making a decision on spousal support.
In South Carolina, there are several types of spousal support including temporary support (awarded while the divorce is pending), rehabilitative support (to help one spouse become self-supporting), periodic permanent support (regular payments for an indefinite period), or lump sum payments.

Child custody and support

In order for a judge to make a decision regarding custody and support matters, both parties will need to provide financial information including tax returns, pay stubs, and expense reports. It is also common for parents to work with mediators or lawyers who specialize in family law in order to come up with an agreement that works for everyone involved.

It is worth noting that once a court orders child support payments, they cannot be renegotiated without significant changes in circumstances (such as job loss or health issues). Custody arrangements may also be modified if there has been a substantial change since the original agreement was made.

Factors that Affect the Length of a Divorce in South Carolina

In addition, some other factors that may impact how long a divorce takes in South Carolina include:

Delays caused by backlogs in court systems or difficulties serving papers
The need for mediation or alternative dispute resolution methods before going through formal court proceedings
The availability of lawyers who specialize in family law cases and their schedules

While every case is unique, couples seeking divorce can help expedite the process by being organized and prepared from the beginning stages of filing.

Contested vs uncontested divorce

If you are considering getting a divorce in South Carolina, it’s important to understand which type may apply in your situation. An experienced family law attorney can provide guidance and representation throughout the process whether your case is contested or uncontested.

Complexity of the case

If the above issues cannot be resolved through agreement between both parties, it may result in a more complex divorce case. Additionally:

A contested divorce where one spouse contests the grounds for divorce or disputes certain terms can lead to increased complexity and time spent in court.
In cases involving domestic violence or abuse allegations further complicate matters even more by requiring additional legal action that may delay finalization of the divorce process

Cooperation between parties and their attorneys

In addition to cooperation between spouses, it is important for each spouse to have an experienced attorney who is familiar with South Carolina family law. An attorney can provide guidance and representation throughout the entire divorce process, helping ensure that each party’s interests are protected. Attorneys may also suggest alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation in order to help resolve any disagreements without going through costly court proceedings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Divorce Process in South Carolina

Going through a divorce can be a challenging and emotional time. It is important to stay focused and avoid common mistakes that could negatively impact the outcome of your case. Here are some things to keep in mind during the divorce process in South Carolina:

Avoid hiding assets or income: This could lead to legal consequences and damage your credibility with the court.
Don’t involve children in conflicts: Divorce can be especially hard on kids, so it’s important not to put them in the middle of any disagreements between parents.
Avoid using social media as evidence: Be careful what you post online, as it could be used against you in court.

Remember that making mistakes during this difficult time is understandable but taking steps to avoid these common pitfalls will make for a smoother transition into post-divorce life. It is also advisable to seek guidance from an experienced attorney who can provide legal support throughout the process.

Not hiring an attorney

In addition to legal representation, some couples may also consider mediation as an alternative to hiring attorneys. Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps facilitate negotiations between both parties in order to reach an agreement on all issues related to the divorce.

Failing to disclose all assets and debts

If you suspect that your spouse is not disclosing all assets and debts, there are several steps you can take:

Hire an attorney: A family law attorney can help you investigate and uncover any hidden assets or debts.
Request documentation: You may be able to request financial statements, tax returns, bank account records, and other documents as part of the discovery process.
Consult with experts: Depending on the complexity of your finances, it may be necessary to consult with financial experts such as forensic accountants or business valuation specialists.

If it is found that a spouse has purposely hidden assets or debts from their partner during a divorce proceeding in South Carolina, they could face penalties such as fines or even jail time for contempt of court. It’s important to be transparent about all finances during the divorce process in order to reach a fair settlement for both parties involved.

Not following court orders

In cases where one parent refuses to allow visitation rights for their former spouse despite court orders dictating otherwise, there are additional legal options available:

The non-custodial parent can file a motion asking the judge to enforce their visitation rights
If violations continue after enforcement has been ordered by the judge or if there is clear evidence that visitations pose danger/harm on children; modifications on parenting plans may be requested and emergency hearings called upon,

It is important for both parties involved in divorce proceedings in South Carolina to abide by all court-ordered agreements in order to avoid potential legal consequences. If changes need to be made regarding any aspect of an existing agreement (such as child support or custody arrangements), it’s recommended that individuals seek guidance from an attorney rather than attempting any unilateral changes without proper authorization from family courts.

Conclusion: How Long Does a Divorce Take in South Carolina

In conclusion, the length of time it takes to complete a divorce in South Carolina varies depending on individual circumstances. Here are some factors that can affect the timeline:

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce: If both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, it can be finalized relatively quickly. However, if there are contested issues such as child custody or property division, it may take longer.
Court Scheduling: Depending on the court’s schedule and caseload, it may take longer for your divorce proceedings to be scheduled or heard.
Mandatory Waiting Periods: In South Carolina, there is a mandatory one-year waiting period for no-fault divorces based on continuous separation without cohabitation.

If you are considering filing for divorce in South Carolina, it is important to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process and help ensure that your rights and interests are protected throughout every step of the way.

Factors that can affect the length of a divorce

In addition to these factors, it is also important to consider other personal circumstances that may impact the length of a divorce process. For example:

Children: If there are children involved, custody and visitation arrangements must be made which could take longer if parents do not agree on these issues.
Assets and Debts: Dividing assets and debts between spouses requires detailed financial disclosures which could take time to prepare and evaluate by both parties involved.

If you are considering filing for divorce in South Carolina, it is best to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through this complex legal process based on your individual situation.

Importance of working with a qualified attorney.

In short, hiring an experienced divorce attorney gives you peace of mind knowing that someone with expertise in family law is working hard to protect your rights and interests during this difficult time.

FAQ on ‘How Long Does a Divorce Take in South Carolina’

Q: What is an uncontested divorce?

A: An uncontested divorce is one where both parties agree on all issues related to the divorce, such as property division, child custody and support, and alimony. This type of divorce usually takes less time and money than a contested divorce.

Q: What is a contested divorce?

A: A contested divorce is one where the parties cannot agree on one or more issues related to the divorce. This type of divorce requires litigation and can be costly and time-consuming.

Q: What are the residency requirements for filing for a divorce in South Carolina?

A: To file for a divorce in South Carolina, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for at least one year before filing.

Q: Can I file for a fault-based divorce in South Carolina?

A: Yes, South Carolina allows for fault-based divorces. Grounds for fault-based divorces include adultery, physical cruelty, habitual drunkenness or drug use, and desertion. However, fault-based divorces can be more complicated and difficult to prove than no-fault divorces.