Are you trying to access divorce records in the state of South Carolina? You are in luck. In the state of South Carolina, just like in the other states of the country, you can legally ask for the record, because divorce records are in the public domain. Since this is a part of the Vital Records, the state must maintain records, and must share it with you when you ask for it. Yes, it is your right.
In South Carolina, divorces were illegal before 1868. Only a legislative act or the district court of equity could grant a divorce or separate maintenance. However, in reality, this was rarely done. A legislative statute outlawed it, and so, a person could ask for divorce at the Court of Common Pleas. Ultimately in 1950, divorce was legalized.
The office of the Clerk of the court at the county that granted divorce holds these records in South Carolina. Carbon copy of divorce records is filed with the DHEC since July 1962. A divorce record from 1962 is available from this office. For older records, you must place the request to the Clerk’s office in the court that granted the divorce.
You must fill out the application form and include all relevant information regarding the husband/wife, the date and county of divorce, your relationship, and your contact information. You must also sign the document. You must provide a valid photo ID. If the application form is incomplete, if you have not signed it, or if the photo ID is not valid, then your request might be rejected. You can mail your form, but be sure to include a $12.00 search fee by check or money-order at the below address:
South Carolina DHEC
Vital Records
2600 Bull Street
Columbia, SC 29201
The South Carolina DHES has tied up with Vital Record Check to allow online requests. This procedure is fast and simple. However, you need to pay an additional $12.95 fee, along with the usual state fees.
South Carolina divorce record cannot be accessed by everybody. Those who are eligible to request a certified copy, are the adult children of the divorced person, a present or former spouse, a legal representative with an authenticated government issued photo ID stating the motive of request.
The Freedom of Information Act (FoIA) passed in 1966 reserves divorce records along with other vital records in both the County and State level. This Act gives people the right to information. However, the state recognizes the right to privacy of the divorced person, as well. So, you can find out whether the divorce was actually granted or not, but you cannot learn about the cause of divorce, issues related to asset and liabilities, child custody and visitation rights, alimony and others. All this information is kept private.
To request a South Carolina divorce certificate, please follow the below instructions:
Step 1.
First, download the Vital Records Divorce application.
Step 2.
Read all instructions on page 2. Then complete the form. Include all pertinent information about the husband and wife, county and date of divorce, your relationship, and your contact information. Be sure to make a legible copy of your photo ID to include with your application.
Step 3.
Submit the completed form to the address below, or stop by the state office below. Be prepared to pay the fee of $12 by check or money order.
Send your completed form to:
South Carolina DHEC
Vital Records
2600 Bull Street
Columbia, SC 29201
About South Carolina Divorce Records
Divorce records for the entire state are maintained with the Dept of Health Vital Records office. Only divorce records since 1962 through December 2008 are available through this office. Older records must be requested from the Clerk of Court where the divorce was filed.
Divorce Record Restrictions
Not everyone can obtain a copy of anyone's divorce record. The only individuals allowed to request a certified copy are the persons listed on the divorce, their adult children, a present or former spouse, or a legal representative.
Online Requests for South Carolina Divorce Records
The South Carolina DHES has partnered with VitalCheck to allow online orders. This process is quick and easy, but does come with an additional $12.95 fee, along with the regular state fees.
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