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South Carolina Divorce Records

South Carolina Public Records /South Carolina Divorce Records

Are Divorce Records Public in South Carolina?

Yes, divorce records are public in South Carolina. The South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) grants individuals the right to access public records, including divorce records. This means that anyone can request and obtain copies of divorce records in the state.

The rationale behind making divorce records public is to promote transparency and accountability in the legal system. By allowing public access to divorce records, South Carolina ensures that its citizens have the ability to review and verify the legal proceedings surrounding a divorce case. This accessibility also allows individuals to gather information about past divorces, which may be relevant for various reasons, such as genealogical research or background checks.

It is important to note that while divorce records are considered public, certain personal information may be redacted to protect the privacy of individuals involved. This may include sensitive details such as social security numbers, financial information, or the names of minor children. However, the main details of the divorce, such as the names of the parties involved, the date of the divorce, and the grounds for divorce, will generally remain accessible to the public.

What Is Included in Divorce Record in South Carolina?

A divorce record in South Carolina typically includes essential information about the divorce case. This information may vary depending on the specific divorce proceedings, but generally includes:

  1. Names of the parties involved: The full names of both spouses who were part of the divorce.

  2. Date of the divorce: The official date when the divorce was finalized by the court.

  3. Grounds for divorce: The legal reasons cited by the petitioner for seeking a divorce, such as adultery, desertion, or irreconcilable differences.

  4. Property division: Details of how the couple's assets and debts were divided during the divorce process.

  5. Child custody and support: If applicable, information regarding child custody arrangements, visitation rights, and child support obligations.

  6. Alimony: Information about spousal support or alimony payments, if awarded by the court.

How to Get Divorce Records in South Carolina in 2024

To obtain divorce records in South Carolina in 2024, you have several options available:

  • Visit the Clerk of Court: You can visit the Clerk of Court's office in the county where the divorce was granted and request the divorce records in person. Provide the necessary information, such as the names of the parties involved and the date of the divorce, to facilitate the search.

  • Online Search: Some counties in South Carolina may have online databases or portals where you can search for and access divorce records. Check the official website of the respective county's Clerk of Court for any online search options.

  • Third-Party Online Services: There are various third-party online services that offer access to public records, including divorce records. These services may require a fee for their search and retrieval services.

  • Hire an Attorney: If you are having difficulty locating divorce records or need assistance navigating the legal processes, you may consider hiring an attorney who specializes in family law. They can help you obtain the necessary divorce records and provide guidance on any related legal matters.

It is important to note that the availability and accessibility of divorce records may vary depending on the county and the specific circumstances of the case.

Lookup Divorce Records in South Carolina

Counties in South Carolina
Abbeville Aiken Allendale Anderson Bamberg Barnwell Beaufort Berkeley Calhoun Charleston Cherokee Chester Chesterfield Clarendon Colleton Darlington Dillon Dorchester Edgefield Fairfield Florence Georgetown Greenville Greenwood Hampton Horry Jasper Kershaw Lancaster Laurens Lee Lexington Marion Marlboro McCormick Newberry Oconee Orangeburg Pickens Richland Saluda Spartanburg Sumter Union Williamsburg York
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