Do I need to do mediation for a divorce?
Unless you have a signed agreement, you must complete mediation. You and your partner must agree on a certified family court mediator in your area. Certified mediators are usually attorneys or retired judges. They charge by the hour for their services, and you will be required to pay for half. Lawyers and judges are great mediators […]
How do I file for a divorce?
To file for divorce in South Carolina, you must submit a divorce packet, which includes the following forms available at www.sccourts.org: Family Court Cover Sheet Summons Complaint Financial Declaration (required even if you are not requesting financial support) There is a $150 filing fee to start a divorce case. It is recommended that you prepare […]
I am a victim of domestic violence who recently separated from my spouse. Can I get a divorce?
If you do not meet the criteria for a fault-based divorce, you will need to file for a no-fault divorce based on one year of continuous separation. This means that spouses must live apart for a full 365 days before the court will grant a final divorce. During this period, they cannot reside in the […]
I am a victim of domestic violence. Can I get a 90 day divorce?
South Carolina allows at-fault divorces based on four grounds: (1) Adultery, (2) Habitual Drunkenness or Drug Use, (3) Physical Cruelty, and (4) Desertion. The first three are sometimes referred to as “90-day divorces” because they don’t require a full year of separation. While at-fault divorces can move faster than traditional divorces, they are often more […]
Can I sue my employer?
Yes and no. South Carolina workers are usually “employees at will.” This means that, unless there is an employment contract, they can be fired at anytime for any reason, provided it is not an illegal reason. Some companies have an employee handbook which will spell out the rights of an employee at that particular workplace. […]
What is compensation?
South Carolina has a Crime Victim Compensation Fund to help citizens with costs related to injuries received as a result of the crime. If you qualify for services, The Department of Crime Victim Compensation (DCVC) may reimburse some or all of the following costs depending on the law and policies guiding the use of the funds. […]
What are my rights as a crime victim?
In South Carolina, victims have rights during the criminal justice process. It’s important to know that the Solicitor or Prosecutor does not work for the victim—they work for the State of South Carolina. This means that the victim is not in charge of the criminal case. However, a victim has the right to speak with […]
I’m being abused. What can I do?
If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you are currently experiencing domestic violence and need help getting to safety, we strongly recommend visiting the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA’s) member organization webpage to find a local resources: https://www.sccadvasa.org/get-help/ You can also visit our Safety Planning and Restraining […]
How can I refer someone for services?
It is our policy to speak directly with the victim who is seeking our services. If you know someone who could benefit from our services, refer them to our intake line (803) 509-6552 or our online intake form.
What legal services does SCVAN offer?
SCVAN provides direct legal representation for victims of crime. This advocacy happens inside and outside of the courtroom. SCVAN attorneys assist victims during the criminal process by providing information about their rights and protecting those rights in court. In addition to victims’ rights enforcement, we take a holistic approach to legal representation and can assist […]
