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A divorce or custody case affects your children, your home, and your finances for years. As a Florence family lawyer, Attorney John S. Keffer represents parents and spouses in Florence County Family Court in divorce, custody, child support, alimony, and protective order cases. He has practiced family law in South Carolina since 1999, and consultations are held at our office at 10 Law Range in Sumter.
Florence County Family Court
Family law cases for Florence County residents are heard in Florence County Family Court, part of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit. Family Court has authority over divorce, separate support and maintenance, custody and visitation, child support, alimony, division of marital property, and orders of protection. When a case involves parents who live in different counties, venue rules decide where the case is filed, and we explain those rules at the first meeting.
Family Law Services for Florence Clients
Divorce and separation
South Carolina allows a no-fault divorce after one year of continuous separation, and fault-based divorce on grounds such as adultery, physical cruelty, habitual drunkenness, or desertion. If you are separated but not ready to divorce, an action for separate support and maintenance can address support, custody, and property while you live apart.
Child custody and visitation
The court decides custody based on the best interests of the child. In contested custody cases, the court often appoints a guardian ad litem to investigate and report to the judge. We help you prepare for that process and present a clear picture of your role as a parent.
Child support
Child support is set under the South Carolina Child Support Guidelines, using both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and costs like health insurance and child care. We handle new support orders, modifications after a change in circumstances, and enforcement when payments stop.
Alimony and property division
South Carolina divides marital property through equitable distribution, which means a fair division, not always an equal one. Alimony depends on factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, and fault. Adultery bars a spouse from receiving alimony under South Carolina law.
Orders of protection
If you or your children are in danger, an order of protection can be requested through Family Court. These cases move quickly, and we treat them with urgency.
What to Expect
Most contested divorce and custody cases go to mediation before a final hearing, and many settle there. When the other side will not be reasonable, Attorney Keffer prepares your case for a temporary hearing and a final hearing in Florence County Family Court. You work directly with him throughout.
Florence Family Lawyer FAQ
How long does a divorce take in Florence County?
A no-fault divorce requires one year of continuous separation before the court can grant it. After that, timing depends on whether the issues are agreed and on the court’s schedule. Contested cases take longer because of discovery, mediation, and hearings.
What does a guardian ad litem do in a custody case?
A guardian ad litem is appointed to represent the child’s interests. The guardian interviews the parents and others, visits the homes, reviews records, and gives the court a report that can carry significant weight.
Can child support be changed later?
Yes. Either parent can ask Family Court to modify support after a substantial change in circumstances, such as a major change in income or in the child’s needs. The change must be approved by the court.
Do I have to meet in Florence?
Consultations are held at our office at 10 Law Range in Sumter. Call (803) 774-1004 to schedule a free consultation.
See our main family law and divorce pages, learn more about our Florence, SC legal services, or schedule a free consultation.
South Carolina divorce and support laws are in Title 20, Chapter 3 of the South Carolina Code.
Florence Family Law FAQs
Which court hears Florence family law cases?
Florence family law cases are heard in Florence County Family Court, part of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit.
Can I meet with the attorney about a Florence family law matter?
Yes. Consultations for Florence family law matters are held at our Sumter office at 10 Law Range, and many questions can be handled by phone.
Is mediation required in Florence family law cases?
Mediation is generally required in contested Florence family law cases before a final hearing, unless the court grants an exception.