South Carolina Divorce Cost
How much does divorce cost in South Carolina? Detailed breakdown of filing fees, attorney costs, mediation, and hidden expenses — plus how to save up to 90%. Updated for 2026.
South Carolina Divorce Cost Comparison
| Method | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Divorce.ai | $299 + $150 filing fee |
| DIY (Pro Se) | $150 filing fee only |
| Mediation | $3,000-$8,000(~$200/session) |
| Uncontested + Attorney | $2,500-$7,500 |
| Contested + Attorney | $10,000-$25,000+ |
South Carolina Divorce Fee Breakdown
| Court Filing Fee | $150 |
| Process Server | $50 |
| Certified Copy | $3 |
| Parenting Course | $50 |
| Minimum Total (DIY) | $203 |
County Fee Variations
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Attorney Costs in South Carolina
Divorce attorneys in South Carolina typically charge between $200 and $400 per hour. Total costs depend on how many hours your case requires.
Simple Uncontested
$1,500-$3,000
5-15 hours
Moderate Complexity
$5,000-$15,000
20-60 hours
Highly Contested
$10,000+
60+ hours
Hidden Costs to Watch For
QDRO (Retirement Division)
If dividing retirement accounts, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order costs $500-$1,500 to prepare.
Real Estate Appraisals
Professional home appraisals run $300-$600 each and may be needed for property division.
Business Valuations
If either spouse owns a business, a formal valuation can cost $5,000-$25,000.
Custody Evaluations
Court-ordered custody evaluations cost $3,000-$10,000 in contested custody cases.
Fee Waiver Information
South Carolina offers filing fee waivers for individuals who cannot afford to pay.
Under South Carolina law, the court may waive the $150 filing fee for indigent filers. A presumption of indigency is created when the filer's net household income is at or below 100% of the federal poverty guidelines established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The filer must submit Form SCCA 405PC (Motion and Affidavit to Proceed In Forma Pauperis) with a signed and notarized financial declaration.
Income threshold: 100% of federal poverty guidelines per HHS annual publication
Required form: SCCA 405PC — Motion and Affidavit to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
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