Divorce Petition in South Carolina

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026

South Carolina Requirements

  • One-year residency
  • Grounds (fault or one-year separation)
  • Equitable distribution
  • Serve spouse
Filing Location

Family Court in county of residence

Filing Fee

$150 filing fee

Statute Reference

S.C. Code Ann. § 20-3-10

How to Complete This Form

  1. 1Confirm that you meet your state's residency requirements for filing.
  2. 2Gather financial records, including income statements, bank accounts, debts, and property valuations.
  3. 3Obtain the appropriate divorce petition forms from your court or court website.
  4. 4Complete the petition, including grounds for divorce, proposed property division, and custody arrangements (if applicable).
  5. 5File the petition with the court clerk and pay the filing fee.
  6. 6Serve the petition on your spouse according to your state's service requirements.
  7. 7Attend any required hearings, mediation sessions, or settlement conferences.

Download Form Template

Download a template for the Divorce Petition customized with South Carolina-specific requirements and instructions.

Divorce Petition in Other States

Other Forms in South Carolina

When to Talk to a Lawyer

  • Your divorce involves significant assets, a business, retirement accounts, or disputes over child custody.
  • There is a history of domestic violence, hidden assets, or your spouse has hired an attorney.

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.