How can I register for a Foreign Protective Order?
Learn more on how to register here.
What can I do to safety plan while sheltering in place?
These safety planning steps are general recommendations and may not apply to every situation. For information on restraining orders, contact SCVAN’s Legal Department. If you or someone in your household is in immediate danger, call 911. If possible, use a landline, as it will automatically provide your location to dispatchers, even if you are unable […]
I was sexually assaulted by my spouse. Can I report the assault?
South Carolina does recognize sexual assault between spouses. The law in South Carolina is called Spousal Sexual Battery. However, this is the one sexual assault law in South Carolina that does require the offense to be reported within a certain amount of time – if the spouses are living together and not estranged, then the […]
What is rape or sexual assault called in South Carolina?
There are many different crimes that contain elements of rape or sexual assault in SC: Criminal Sexual Conduct – 1st Degree, Criminal Sexual Conduct – 2nd Degree, Criminal Sexual Conduct – 3rd Degree, Assault & Battery – 1st Degree, Assault & Battery – 2nd Degree, Assault with Intent to Commit Criminal Sexual Conduct, and Spousal […]
Do I need an attorney to represent me in my Order of Protection hearing?
In general, crime victims do not need legal representation at Order of Protection hearings because the hearings are designed for unrepresented persons. However, both parties have a legal right to an attorney. We strongly recommend that you have an attorney represent you at an Order of Protection hearing.
What is a Permanent Restraining Order?
Permanent Restraining Orders are available to victims of or witnesses to certain crimes at the time of sentencing in General Sessions Court or after sentencing in the Court of Common Pleas. These restraining orders can last for a specific period (such as twenty years), or may last for a lifetime. The following requirements must be […]
How does a victim report a sexual assault?
There are several options for reporting. You can call 911 in an emergency or contact the non-emergency line for less urgent situations. Another option is to visit a local police agency in person. Additionally, you can ask medical personnel to contact law enforcement on your behalf or request assistance from a community-based advocate to make […]
Can I make my address confidential?
In 2024, South Carolina established the address confidentiality program to protect victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, stalking, harassment, or sexual offenses by authorizing the use of designated addresses for such victims. The program is to be administered by the Attorney General. However, details on how to apply for the program have not yet been […]
How can I get an Order of Protection?
The Family Court Clerk of Court has simplified petition forms which you can fill out and file at their office. If you have an attorney, he or she can help you file a Petition for an Order of Protection. After the Petition has been filed, the Clerk of Court will schedule a hearing in Family […]
Can it be sexual assault even if the victim and the offender have been intimately involved?
Absolutely! Criminal offenses are not limited to non-intimate partner sexual assault, or stranger or acquaintance sexual assault. A victim can be sexually assaulted by a spouse or someone he or she is dating or has dated.
