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York County Divorce Guide: Rock Hill, South Carolina Filing

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Fairfield County Divorce Guide: Winnsboro, South Carolina Filing

Florence County Divorce Guide: Florence, South Carolina Filing

Georgetown County Divorce Guide: Georgetown, South Carolina Filing

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Fairfield County Divorce Guide: Filing in Winnsboro, South Carolina

Fairfield County handles divorce cases through the Family Court. Whether you live in Winnsboro or another Fairfield County community, this guide provides everything you need to know about filing for divorce in Fairfield County.

Fairfield County Divorce at a Glance

County: Fairfield County
Primary City: Winnsboro, South Carolina
Court Type: Family Court
Residency Requirement: 1 year or 3 months if both resident
Waiting Period: 1 year separation

What Makes Fairfield County Unique

Every county in South Carolina follows the same state divorce laws, but Fairfield County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Fairfield County's Family Court has established local rules that govern how divorces proceed. These include specific document formatting requirements, filing deadlines, and hearing schedules that differ from other South Carolina countys.

Filing Requirements

The Clerk of Courts in Fairfield County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

Fairfield County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Fairfield County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in South Carolina vary by county. Contact the Fairfield County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical South Carolina Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

  • Service of process: $40-$150

  • Certified copies: $1-$5 per page

  • Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most South Carolina courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Fairfield County

Attorney fees in Fairfield County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

  • Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour

  • Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour

  • Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

  • Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000

  • Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+

  • High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

  • Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000

  • Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for South Carolina attorneys. Actual costs in Fairfield County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Fairfield County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet South Carolina's residency requirement: 1 year or 3 months if both resident

Step 2: Gather Documents

  • Marriage certificate (certified copy)

  • Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)

  • Property records

  • Debt information

  • Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

South Carolina requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Fairfield County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

  • Petition/Complaint for Divorce

  • Financial affidavits

  • Child custody forms (if applicable)

  • Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Fairfield County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many South Carolina countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to South Carolina law. Service options include:

  • Sheriff's department

  • Private process server

  • Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

South Carolina may require:

  • Parenting classes (if children involved)

  • Financial disclosures

  • Mediation attempts

  • Waiting period: 1 year separation

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Fairfield County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

  • Minimum: 1 year separation (state-mandated waiting period)

  • Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree

  • Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

  • Minor disagreements: 4-8 months

  • Significant disputes: 8-14 months

  • Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Fairfield County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Fairfield County Family Court

Fairfield County's divorce cases are handled by the Family Court. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

  • Process divorce petitions

  • Conduct hearings and trials

  • Issue temporary orders

  • Approve settlement agreements

  • Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Fairfield County divorce cases.

South Carolina Divorce Court Locator

Fairfield County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

224 East Main Street, 4th Floor

Lancaster,

OH

43130

Phone:

(740)-652-7360

Fax:

(740)-681-4770

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.co.fairfield.oh.us/

Clerks:

Branden C Meyer

Court Name:

Fairfield Judicial Distric Court

Court Address:

1061 Main Street

Bridgeport,

CT

06601

Phone:

203-579-6527

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

P.O. Drawer 180

Winnsboro,

SC

29180

Phone:

803-712-6734

Fax:

803-635-6529

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Website:

http://www.fairfieldsc.com/

Judges:

W. Thomas Sprott, Jr.

Clerks:

Betty Jo Beckham

South Carolina Divorce Court Locator

Fairfield County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

224 East Main Street, 4th Floor

Lancaster,

OH

43130

Phone:

(740)-652-7360

Fax:

(740)-681-4770

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.co.fairfield.oh.us/

Clerks:

Branden C Meyer

Court Name:

Fairfield Judicial Distric Court

Court Address:

1061 Main Street

Bridgeport,

CT

06601

Phone:

203-579-6527

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

P.O. Drawer 180

Winnsboro,

SC

29180

Phone:

803-712-6734

Fax:

803-635-6529

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Website:

http://www.fairfieldsc.com/

Judges:

W. Thomas Sprott, Jr.

Clerks:

Betty Jo Beckham

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Fairfield County

Legal Aid Services

South Carolina has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Fairfield County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many South Carolina courts offer self-help centers with:

  • Divorce form packets

  • Filing instructions

  • Procedural information

  • Referrals to resources

Contact the Fairfield County Family Court to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in South Carolina may offer:

  • Free legal consultations

  • Reduced-fee attorney referrals

  • Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Fairfield County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Fairfield County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Fairfield County.

Benefits of Online Services:

  • Fairfield County-specific forms and filing instructions

  • Professional document preparation

  • Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees

  • Convenient online process

  • Support throughout your case

Best For:

  • Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree

  • Cases without complex assets or custody disputes

  • Couples able to cooperate on terms

  • People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Fairfield County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Fairfield County

Fairfield County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in South Carolina

South Carolina courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

  • Each parent's ability to care for children

  • Children's relationship with each parent

  • Stability of proposed living arrangements

  • Children's adjustment to home, school, community

  • Parents' willingness to cooperate

  • Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Fairfield County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

South Carolina uses guidelines based on:

  • Both parents' incomes

  • Number of children

  • Parenting time allocation

  • Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

South Carolina may require parents in Fairfield County to:

  • Complete parenting education classes

  • Attend mediation for custody disputes

  • Submit detailed parenting plans

  • Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Fairfield County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

South Carolina requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Fairfield County Family Court imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each South Carolina county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow South Carolina's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Fairfield County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Fairfield County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Fairfield County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Fairfield County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Fairfield County?

Uncontested divorces in Fairfield County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. South Carolina requires 1 year separation waiting period. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity.

How much does divorce cost in Fairfield County?

Filing fees vary by South Carolina county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Fairfield County?

No, but whether you should hire one depends on your situation. Attorney representation is recommended for cases involving significant assets, business ownership, contested custody, or domestic violence. Simple uncontested divorces often work well with online service assistance.

Can I file for divorce in Fairfield County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet South Carolina's residency requirement (1 year or 3 months if both resident), you can file in Fairfield County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in South Carolina, you can request a default judgment from Fairfield County court.

How is property divided in Fairfield County?

South Carolina follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally.

Does Fairfield County require separation before divorce?

South Carolina's laws determine separation requirements. 1 year separation waiting period applies after filing. Separation is required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Fairfield County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Fairfield County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Fairfield County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Fairfield County Family Court are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Fairfield County Divorce

Step 1: Verify you meet South Carolina's residency requirement (1 year or 3 months if both resident)
Step 2: Gather all required financial and personal documents
Step 3: Decide between self-filing, online service, or attorney
Step 4: Complete Fairfield County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Fairfield County Clerk of Courts
Step 6: Serve your spouse with divorce papers
Step 7: Complete any mandatory requirements
Step 8: Finalize your divorce through settlement or hearing

About This Fairfield County Divorce Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about filing for divorce in Fairfield County, South Carolina. Information covers local procedures, filing requirements, costs, and resources specific to Fairfield County's Family Court.

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Fairfield County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified South Carolina family law attorney.

RETAINER FEE


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COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

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Best

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We offer a guided path through divorce that helps avoid unnecessary conflict and costs.

Written By:

Divorce.com Staff

Fairfield County Divorce Guide: Filing in Winnsboro, South Carolina

Fairfield County handles divorce cases through the Family Court. Whether you live in Winnsboro or another Fairfield County community, this guide provides everything you need to know about filing for divorce in Fairfield County.

Fairfield County Divorce at a Glance

County: Fairfield County
Primary City: Winnsboro, South Carolina
Court Type: Family Court
Residency Requirement: 1 year or 3 months if both resident
Waiting Period: 1 year separation

What Makes Fairfield County Unique

Every county in South Carolina follows the same state divorce laws, but Fairfield County has specific local procedures, filing requirements, and resources that affect your divorce process.

Local Court Procedures

Fairfield County's Family Court has established local rules that govern how divorces proceed. These include specific document formatting requirements, filing deadlines, and hearing schedules that differ from other South Carolina countys.

Filing Requirements

The Clerk of Courts in Fairfield County has specific requirements for document submission, fee payments, and case processing. Understanding these requirements before filing prevents delays and rejected paperwork.

Community Resources

Fairfield County offers various divorce-related resources including mediation services, self-help centers, and legal aid programs. Availability and eligibility vary by county.

Fairfield County Court Filing Fees

Divorce Petition: Filing fees in South Carolina vary by county. Contact the Fairfield County Clerk of Courts for current exact fees.

Typical South Carolina Filing Fees: $75-$450 depending on county

Additional Costs:

  • Service of process: $40-$150

  • Certified copies: $1-$5 per page

  • Motion filing fees: $25-$100 each

Payment Methods:
Most South Carolina courts accept cash, check, money order, and credit/debit cards. Some countys charge a processing fee for card payments.

Attorney Costs in Fairfield County

Attorney fees in Fairfield County vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether your divorce is contested.

Hourly Rates:

  • Entry-level attorneys: $150-$275/hour

  • Experienced attorneys: $275-$400/hour

  • Senior attorneys: $400-$500/hour

Average Total Costs:

  • Simple uncontested: $1,500-$4,000

  • Contested divorce: $8,000-$30,000+

  • High-conflict cases: $30,000-$60,000+

Retainer Requirements:

  • Uncontested: $1,500-$3,000

  • Contested: $5,000-$15,000+

These are typical ranges for South Carolina attorneys. Actual costs in Fairfield County depend on your specific situation.

How to File for Divorce in Fairfield County

Step 1: Verify Residency

You or your spouse must meet South Carolina's residency requirement: 1 year or 3 months if both resident

Step 2: Gather Documents

  • Marriage certificate (certified copy)

  • Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)

  • Property records

  • Debt information

  • Children's information (if applicable)

Step 3: Complete Divorce Forms

South Carolina requires specific forms for divorce petitions. Fairfield County may have additional local forms.

Required documents typically include:

  • Petition/Complaint for Divorce

  • Financial affidavits

  • Child custody forms (if applicable)

  • Settlement agreement (if uncontested)

Step 4: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the Fairfield County Clerk of Courts along with the filing fee. Many South Carolina countys now offer electronic filing options.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

After filing, your spouse must be served with divorce papers according to South Carolina law. Service options include:

  • Sheriff's department

  • Private process server

  • Certified mail (if spouse agrees)

Step 6: Complete Mandatory Requirements

South Carolina may require:

  • Parenting classes (if children involved)

  • Financial disclosures

  • Mediation attempts

  • Waiting period: 1 year separation

Step 7: Finalize Your Divorce

For uncontested cases, a brief hearing may be required. Contested cases involve negotiations, possible trial, and final judgment.

Fairfield County Divorce Timeline

Uncontested Divorce (Both Agree):

  • Minimum: 1 year separation (state-mandated waiting period)

  • Typical: 2-4 months from filing to final decree

  • Best case: 6-10 weeks with all paperwork perfect

Contested Divorce (Disputes to Resolve):

  • Minor disagreements: 4-8 months

  • Significant disputes: 8-14 months

  • Trial required: 12-24 months

Timelines depend on court calendar availability in Fairfield County, case complexity, and how quickly both parties respond to requests.

Fairfield County Family Court

Fairfield County's divorce cases are handled by the Family Court. The court manages all aspects of family law including divorce, custody, support, and property division.

Court Functions:

  • Process divorce petitions

  • Conduct hearings and trials

  • Issue temporary orders

  • Approve settlement agreements

  • Enter final divorce decrees

Court Staff:
The Clerk of Courts office handles all filing, fee collection, and record keeping for Fairfield County divorce cases.

South Carolina Divorce Court Locator

Fairfield County Family and Divorce Courts

Court Name:

Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Div.

Court Address:

224 East Main Street, 4th Floor

Lancaster,

OH

43130

Phone:

(740)-652-7360

Fax:

(740)-681-4770

Clerk Hours:

8am-4pm

Website:

https://www.co.fairfield.oh.us/

Clerks:

Branden C Meyer

Court Name:

Fairfield Judicial Distric Court

Court Address:

1061 Main Street

Bridgeport,

CT

06601

Phone:

203-579-6527

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Court Name:

Family Court

Court Address:

P.O. Drawer 180

Winnsboro,

SC

29180

Phone:

803-712-6734

Fax:

803-635-6529

Clerk Hours:

9am-5pm

Website:

http://www.fairfieldsc.com/

Judges:

W. Thomas Sprott, Jr.

Clerks:

Betty Jo Beckham

Free and Low-Cost Resources in Fairfield County

Legal Aid Services

South Carolina has legal aid organizations that provide free legal help to low-income residents. Contact your local legal aid office to check eligibility for services in Fairfield County.

Typical Eligibility: Income at or below 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines

Court Self-Help Resources

Many South Carolina courts offer self-help centers with:

  • Divorce form packets

  • Filing instructions

  • Procedural information

  • Referrals to resources

Contact the Fairfield County Family Court to ask about available self-help services.

Pro Bono Legal Services

Local bar associations in South Carolina may offer:

  • Free legal consultations

  • Reduced-fee attorney referrals

  • Pro bono representation for qualified cases

Mediation Services

Fairfield County may offer court-connected mediation at reduced rates, typically much less expensive than private mediation.

Affordable Online Divorce Services for Fairfield County

Online divorce services provide an affordable alternative to hiring an attorney for uncontested cases in Fairfield County.

Benefits of Online Services:

  • Fairfield County-specific forms and filing instructions

  • Professional document preparation

  • Significant cost savings vs. attorney fees

  • Convenient online process

  • Support throughout your case

Best For:

  • Uncontested divorces where both spouses agree

  • Cases without complex assets or custody disputes

  • Couples able to cooperate on terms

  • People seeking affordable professional help

Typical Cost Range: $500-$2,000 plus court filing fees

Online services work well in Fairfield County for straightforward cases while providing guidance and form preparation assistance.

Divorce with Children in Fairfield County

Fairfield County courts prioritize children's best interests in custody and support decisions.

Child Custody in South Carolina

South Carolina courts consider multiple factors when determining custody:

  • Each parent's ability to care for children

  • Children's relationship with each parent

  • Stability of proposed living arrangements

  • Children's adjustment to home, school, community

  • Parents' willingness to cooperate

  • Any history of abuse or neglect

Parenting Time

Fairfield County courts encourage meaningful relationships with both parents unless safety concerns exist. Parenting time schedules are customized to each family's situation.

Child Support

South Carolina uses guidelines based on:

  • Both parents' incomes

  • Number of children

  • Parenting time allocation

  • Healthcare and childcare costs

Mandatory Requirements

South Carolina may require parents in Fairfield County to:

  • Complete parenting education classes

  • Attend mediation for custody disputes

  • Submit detailed parenting plans

  • Provide financial disclosure

Common Mistakes in Fairfield County Divorces

1. Incomplete Financial Disclosure

South Carolina requires full financial disclosure in divorce cases. Incomplete or inaccurate information causes delays and can result in court sanctions.

2. Missing Deadlines

Fairfield County Family Court imposes deadlines for responses, discovery, and other filings. Missing deadlines can result in default judgments or case dismissal.

3. Incorrect Forms or Formatting

Each South Carolina county has specific form requirements. Using outdated forms or incorrect formats results in rejected filings.

4. Poor Service of Process

Improperly serving your spouse invalidates the entire case. Follow South Carolina's service requirements exactly.

5. Not Following Court Orders

Violating temporary orders issued by Fairfield County court can result in contempt charges and negatively impact your case.

6. Failing to Update Information

Changes in income, residence, or circumstances must be reported to Fairfield County court promptly.

7. Representing Yourself in Complex Cases

While self-representation is allowed in Fairfield County, complex cases involving businesses, substantial assets, or high-conflict custody benefit from attorney representation.

Fairfield County Divorce FAQs

How long does it take to get divorced in Fairfield County?

Uncontested divorces in Fairfield County typically take 2-4 months from filing to final decree. South Carolina requires 1 year separation waiting period. Contested cases take 8-18 months or longer depending on complexity.

How much does divorce cost in Fairfield County?

Filing fees vary by South Carolina county. Uncontested divorces using online services cost $500-$2,000 plus filing fees. Attorney-handled divorces range from $2,000-$6,000 for uncontested cases to $10,000-$50,000+ for contested cases.

Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Fairfield County?

No, but whether you should hire one depends on your situation. Attorney representation is recommended for cases involving significant assets, business ownership, contested custody, or domestic violence. Simple uncontested divorces often work well with online service assistance.

Can I file for divorce in Fairfield County if my spouse lives elsewhere?

Yes, as long as you meet South Carolina's residency requirement (1 year or 3 months if both resident), you can file in Fairfield County even if your spouse lives in another county or state.

What if my spouse doesn't respond to divorce papers?

If your spouse doesn't respond within the required timeframe in South Carolina, you can request a default judgment from Fairfield County court.

How is property divided in Fairfield County?

South Carolina follows equitable distribution rules. The court divides marital property fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally.

Does Fairfield County require separation before divorce?

South Carolina's laws determine separation requirements. 1 year separation waiting period applies after filing. Separation is required before filing.

Can I change my name back in my divorce?

Yes, you can request to resume your maiden name or previous name as part of your Fairfield County divorce decree.

What if I can't afford the filing fee?

Fairfield County court may waive filing fees if you qualify based on low income or receipt of public assistance. File a fee waiver application with your petition.

Are divorce records public in Fairfield County?

Yes, divorce records filed with Fairfield County Family Court are generally public records, though you can request certain sensitive information be sealed.

Next Steps: Start Your Fairfield County Divorce

Step 1: Verify you meet South Carolina's residency requirement (1 year or 3 months if both resident)
Step 2: Gather all required financial and personal documents
Step 3: Decide between self-filing, online service, or attorney
Step 4: Complete Fairfield County-specific divorce forms
Step 5: File petition with Fairfield County Clerk of Courts
Step 6: Serve your spouse with divorce papers
Step 7: Complete any mandatory requirements
Step 8: Finalize your divorce through settlement or hearing

About This Fairfield County Divorce Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about filing for divorce in Fairfield County, South Carolina. Information covers local procedures, filing requirements, costs, and resources specific to Fairfield County's Family Court.

Last Updated: February 2026

Note: Laws and procedures change. Always verify current requirements with Fairfield County Clerk of Courts or consult with a qualified South Carolina family law attorney.

RETAINER FEE


PETITION





COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

RETAINER FEE


PETITION





COURT FILING FEE

SUMMONS


AFFIDAVIT


MOTIONS


ARGUMENTS


TEMPORARY ORDERS

HEARINGS


SUBPOENAS


DEPOSITIONS


SETTLEMENT

CONFERENCES

JUDGEMENT





TRIAL


APPEALS

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