Uncontested Divorce in Rock Hill, South Carolina
Ending a marriage is never easy, but it can go more smoothly when both spouses agree on the important terms. In Rock Hill, South Carolina, an uncontested divorce can save time, money, and stress if you and your spouse are on the same page about how to move forward.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce?
An uncontested divorce is when both spouses agree on all the major issues involved in ending the marriage, which usually includes:
- Division of property and debts
- Child custody and visitation (if applicable)
- Child support
- Alimony or spousal support
Because there is no disagreement on any of the major issues, the court does not have to settle disputes. Instead, it simply reviews your paperwork and ensures everything is in order before finalizing the divorce.
South Carolina Requirements for Divorce
To file for divorce in South Carolina, including Rock Hill, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for a certain amount of time:
- If both spouses live in South Carolina, at least three months of residency is required.
- If only one spouse lives in South Carolina, that spouse must have lived there for at least one year before filing.
In addition to residency, you must also meet one of the state’s recognized grounds for divorce. For uncontested divorces, the most common ground is living separate and apart for at least one year without cohabitation.
Why Choose an Uncontested Divorce?
Choosing an uncontested divorce in Rock Hill offers several benefits, such as:
- Faster process: Without court battles, your case can move more quickly through the system.
- Lower costs: Fewer attorney hours and no court hearings usually mean lower legal fees.
- Less conflict: Agreeing ahead of time can reduce emotional strain for both spouses.
- More control: You and your spouse, not a judge, decide how to divide your property and handle other important matters.
Even with these benefits, it’s still smart to talk to a family law attorney to ensure that your agreement is fair, enforceable, and properly filed.
What Is the Process for an Uncontested Divorce in Rock Hill?
The steps involved in an uncontested divorce are relatively straightforward:
- File the paperwork: One spouse (the plaintiff) files a complaint for divorce in the family court.
- Serve the other spouse: The complaint must be legally delivered to the other spouse (the defendant), unless they waive service.
- Wait for the response: The defendant can agree by signing a written response or simply not contest the complaint.
- Schedule a final hearing: Once everything is agreed upon, a short hearing will be set to finalize the divorce.
- Finalize the divorce: The judge will review your paperwork and issue the final divorce decree if everything is in order.
If you and your spouse have minor children, you will also need to submit a parenting plan and meet the state’s child support guidelines.
Should I Still Hire a Divorce Lawyer?
Even if everything is uncontested, hiring a family law attorney can still be very helpful because they can:
- Draft or review your settlement agreement
- Make sure your documents meet South Carolina legal requirements
- Help you understand your rights and responsibilities
- Catch any potential issues that could cause problems later
An attorney can also ensure that your agreement is clear and enforceable, which can prevent future disagreements.
Contact An Experienced Family Law Attorney at Minor Law Divorce Lawyers Can Help. Contact Us at (803) 504-0971
To learn more and get the help you deserve, please contact a family law lawyer at Minor Law Divorce Lawyers in Rock Hill, SC or contact us online today.
We proudly serve throughout York County.
Minor Law Divorce Lawyers
1273 Ebenezer Rd, Suite B,
Rock Hill, SC 29732
(803) 504-0971
