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South Carolina law

Commercial Litigation Laws in South Carolina.

South Carolina commercial litigation runs through the Court of Common Pleas (civil matters). South Carolina operates a Business Court pilot program in Charleston, Greenville, and Richland counties for complex commercial cases. South Carolina follows the UCC. The South Carolina Unfair Trade Practices Act (SCUTPA, S.C. Code § 39-5-10 et seq.) provides consumer-protection remedies with treble damages for willful violations.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Statute of Limitations

3 years (most contracts and torts)S.C. Code § 15-3-530

Most contract and tort claims: 3 years. UCC sales: 6 years. Fraud: 3 years from discovery.

State law

Key South Carolina Statutes

South Carolina UCC Article 2 (Sales)S.C. Code § 36-2-101 et seq.

Governs sales of goods including warranties, remedies, statute of frauds ($500+), and breach. 6-year statute of limitations (distinctive SC extension).

Business Court Pilot ProgramSC Supreme Court Admin. Order

Pilot program in Charleston, Greenville, and Richland counties handles complex commercial cases with specialized judges.

SC Unfair Trade Practices Act (SCUTPA)S.C. Code § 39-5-10 et seq.

Prohibits unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices. Private cause of action with actual damages and discretionary treble damages for willful violations plus attorney fees.

Prejudgment InterestS.C. Code § 34-31-20

Prejudgment interest rate set annually (based on Commercial Prime Rate plus specified margin).

State law

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.

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