Divorce & Family Law in South Carolina

South Carolina requires one year of continuous separation for no-fault divorce — one of the longest waiting periods. Fault grounds (adultery, desertion, physical cruelty, habitual drunkenness) have no separation requirement. Filing fee is $150. Uncontested divorces cost $3,000-$5,000. Equitable distribution considers 15 factors. Alimony comes in four types: permanent periodic, rehabilitative, reimbursement, and lump-sum. Richland County (Columbia) and Charleston County handle the highest volumes. Military divorces are particularly common given South Carolina's significant military presence (Fort Jackson, Shaw AFB, Joint Base Charleston, Parris Island).