South Carolina · Divorce and family law

South Carolina Divorce Waiting Period, Residency, and Child Support Rules

Fault-based divorce generally cannot be heard until 90 days after filing; one-year continuous separation is the no-fault ground, with final hearing after 30 days from filing when based on separation.

4 rules checked against governing sourcesSources checked through Jul 3, 2026Inspect the coverage gate

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Four state rules to check first

The filing timeline and support method can change by state and by the facts. Start with the governing reference points, then confirm the current court procedure.

Timeline

Waiting period and finality

Fault-based divorce generally cannot be heard until 90 days after filing; one-year continuous separation is the no-fault ground, with final hearing after 30 days from filing when based on separation.

S.C. Code Ann. §§ 20-3-10, 20-3-80.

Verified Jul 3, 2026 · Next review by Jul 3, 2027

Filing jurisdiction

Residency requirement

One-year residency if only plaintiff is a South Carolina resident; three months if both parties reside in South Carolina.

S.C. Code Ann. § 20-3-30.

Verified Jul 3, 2026 · Next review by Jul 3, 2027

What changes the answer

The statewide rule is the starting point

  • Service and filing postureA waiting period may run from filing, service, appearance, or another event.
  • County and venueState residency and the correct county are separate questions.
  • Parenting time and incomeSupport calculations can turn on custody time, income definitions, credits, and deviations.
  • Current forms and local rulesCourt forms, scheduling, and required disclosures can change the practical workflow.

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This page reports source-linked state rules and review dates. It does not calculate a deadline, determine eligibility, select a procedure, value a claim, or apply law to an individual situation. Verify the cited authority, local procedure, and current law before relying on a rule.