Cost of Divorce in South Carolina

Total cost turns on the issues to resolve, your level of conflict, and how quickly you exchange financial information. Local Family Court scheduling and parenting requirements can affect timing and expense.

Typical Costs

Expect a filing fee, plus service of process, copies, and certified decrees. If you use professionals, plan for mediation, limited-scope attorney review, document preparation, and financial experts for business or retirement division. Parents may have parent education costs where required.

What Drives Cost Up or Down

Costs rise with complex property, high-conflict parenting, and late/incomplete disclosures. Costs fall when spouses organize bank, pay, credit, and tax records, agree on valuation dates, work from one shared settlement draft, and start with mediation.

Ways to Save

Lead with mediation, then get a lawyer review of your final agreement. Use attorneys strategically for coaching and document checks. If real estate is involved, set an appraisal method and a refinance/buyout timeline in your agreement to avoid repeat work.

Hello Divorce can prepare all your South Carolina divorce forms for you with our divorce plans.

FAQs

Can I get a filing fee waiver in South Carolina?
Yes. You can request an in forma pauperis waiver if paying the fee is a hardship.

Does filing first increase cost?
Not usually. Cost tracks conflict, organization, and the pace of disclosures and settlement.

Do I have to appear in person?
Many uncontested cases resolve with a brief final hearing; some courts offer remote appearances.