In South Carolina, spouses in a contested divorce case may need to attend mediation before a judge hears the dispute. During mediation, a neutral third party guides settlement discussions, but does not decide the case. A mediator manages the discussion but does not...
Year: 2026
What is a right of first refusal in custody plans?
A parent who cannot care for a child during scheduled parenting time may wonder whether the other parent should have the opportunity to step in before a babysitter or other caregiver is used. A right-of-first-refusal provision can address this situation by giving the...
Can you use a small estate procedure in South Carolina?
When a loved one dies, families may worry that probate will take too long or cost too much. South Carolina offers simpler options for some smaller estates. Knowing the basic rules can help families determine whether one of these options fits their situation. When can...
Can parents refuse grandparent visitation in South Carolina?
When a parent keeps you from seeing your grandchild, it can be difficult to lose a relationship that once felt like a regular part of your life. You may have shared visits, holidays or other important moments. At the same time, parents generally have the right to...
Can cohabitation end alimony in South Carolina?
Yes. In South Carolina, continued cohabitation can end periodic alimony, but the paying spouse must prove more than just the former spouse’s dating relationship or occasional overnight visits. The issue often turns on whether the supported spouse has lived with a...
No response from executor: How can heirs enforce probate rights?
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of an uncooperative executor. When the person responsible for managing an estate fails to communicate or take action, heirs often feel helpless. Fortunately, South Carolina law provides legal remedies to...
What happens in a temporary hearing during a pending divorce?
When a marriage ends, the practical realities of life continue. Children need support, bills are due and living arrangements must be sorted out. The divorce process in South Carolina takes time, but certain decisions cannot wait. A temporary hearing provides...
Addressing extracurricular activities in custody, parenting plans
The planned activities of family members can easily complicate custody arrangements. Medical appointments, a friend's birthday party and even a vacation trip could disrupt a custody schedule and cause disputes between parents. In some cases, families may face weeks or...
Why some separate assets end up on the division table
It’s easy to assume the assets you brought into the marriage are yours to keep, no matter what happens down the road, but it’s not always the case. The line between separate and marital assets can blur faster than most people realize. South Carolina courts generally...
Can moving away after divorce affect custody arrangements?
Divorce often brings major life changes, including new job opportunities, housing shifts or the desire to move closer to family support. While these decisions may feel personal and practical, they can carry serious legal weight when children are involved. In South...
