If you are at the very beginning of the road to divorce, contemplating separating and then divorcing your spouse, you are at the beginning of an emotional and financial rollercoaster. That is why divorce preparations are crucial to a successful divorce. The more you know, the better the outcome. Think back to how much time you spent on planning your wedding, you owe it to yourself and your children to take time to plan out this next phase of life well. Learn Your State’s Requirements for Filing for Divorce One of the first things to do as you start your divorce preparations is to learn about y ..read more

Allegations of illicit drug use alone including marijuana, Delta-8 and THC metabolites, have been common in South Carolina Family Court for some time. With the development of hemp-derived cannabidiol (also referred to as “CBD”), it has become harder to detect marijuana use from use of hemp-derived products. Types of Cannabis Plants and Compounds Cannabis is the name of a plant family that includes both marijuana and hemp. These plants look similar but have some differences: Marijuana Plants Some people use parts of the marijuana plant, like the leaves or flowers, to help with medical issues l ..read more

Navigating the complexities of Family Court can be daunting, but understanding how to prepare for family court mediation can greatly alleviate stress. Mediation in Family Court provides an opportunity for settlement discussions facilitated by a neutral third-party mediator. In South Carolina, it’s a mandatory step before a divorce or child custody case proceeds to trial, emphasizing its importance in resolving disputes amicably. What is Mediation in Family Court? Mediation in Family Court is an opportunity for the parties to a case to engage in settlement discussions with the assistance of a ..read more

In the whirlwind of legal separation proceedings, the best divorce lawyers rely on meticulous organization and detailed record-keeping to navigate complexities, meet deadlines, and keep clients informed. Yet, amidst the emotional storm, the best divorce lawyers also bravely confront uncomfortable truths, guide strategic plans, and remember the humanity in every interaction. 1 The best divorce lawyers keep organized and detailed records. Divorce cases can be complex and lengthy, involving various legal documents, correspondence between attorneys, and court filings. Maintaining organized files ..read more

Going through a divorce can be a challenging and confusing time, especially when it comes to financial concepts like alimony. If you’re in South Carolina and wondering how long alimony lasts or have other questions about alimony laws, you’re not alone. Let’s unravel the mystery of alimony and answer whether you’re stuck paying it forever or if there is an end in sight. S.C. Code Ann. Section 20-3-120 gives the South Carolina Family Court the authority to award alimony, either temporarily or permanently, in a reasonable amount when either party seeks such relief.  How Does Alimony Work? A ..read more

As a custodial parent, it’s important to understand the custody terms that will be included in your child custody agreement. These terms will outline the rights and responsibilities of both you and the non-custodial parent, and will ultimately determine the custody arrangement for your child. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential and effective custody terms that every custodial parent should know in order to ensure a successful and fair custody agreement. The Difference Between Parental Rights and Parental Responsibilities Child custody terms tend to address either the responsibilities ..read more

Is dating while separated a gray area for you? This article demystifies the complexities with straightforward insights on the emotional and legal aspects you’ll face and offers practical advice for those striking out on new relational paths during separation. Key Takeaways Before dating while separated, it is crucial to assess emotional readiness through self-reflection, establishing clear boundaries with the estranged spouse, and seeking professional help for emotional and legal assistance. Dating during separation can have significant legal implications on divorce proceedings, including eff ..read more

Picture this: a maze filled with confusing pathways, hidden traps, and unexpected twists. This is what the divorce process often feels like, especially when it comes to completing a financial disclosure form for divorce. This seemingly mundane yet essential task can become a labyrinthine challenge, laden with the potential for missteps. But why is navigating this maze so crucial? Let’s delve in and unravel the mystery. Key Takeaways Financial disclosure in divorce is necessary to ensure an equitable division of assets and debts. The financial disclosure form requires verifying income sources ..read more

We get asked many questions about divorce and home ownership. For many couples, deciding what to do with the house in the divorce will significantly affect the division of other assets and debts included as marital property. Understanding your options for splitting the house (or, more specifically, its equity) can help guide you and your spouse toward a property settlement agreement. This article will help you learn more about how to resolve property disputes in divorce. A Reminder: South Carolina is Not a Community Property State In South Carolina Family Court, a couple’s marital estate is ma ..read more

Starting a divorce can be challenging, especially if you’re afraid of it. Thoughts about the impending cost of divorce can easily stop you in your tracks. However, filing for divorce may be the best choice for your family. Letting fear and anxiety drive your decisions when scared to get divorced can cause costly mistakes for your case. Read on to learn how to avoid allowing anxiety to set the course for your future. Fear is a natural, normal and adaptive human emotion that arises in response to a perceived threat, danger, or something that is seen as potentially scary or harmful. It is a basic ..read more