South Carolina law
Domestic Violence Laws in South Carolina.
South Carolina provides civil Orders of Protection from Domestic Abuse under the Protection from Domestic Abuse Act (S.C. Code § 20-4-10 et seq.). Emergency ex parte orders issue immediately; final orders after hearing last up to 1 year (renewable). South Carolina criminalizes domestic violence under S.C. Code § 16-25-20 with escalating penalties by degree and repeat offenses. Federal firearm dispossession under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8) applies.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key South Carolina Statutes
Authorizes Emergency Orders of Protection (ex parte, up to 15 days) and Orders of Protection (after hearing, up to 1 year, renewable). Protected: family or household members, persons with child in common, current or former spouses, current or former dating partners.
Three degrees of criminal domestic violence: DV 3rd Degree (misdemeanor), 2nd Degree (felony if aggravated or repeat), 1st Degree (felony). DVHAN (Domestic Violence of a High and Aggravated Nature) carries up to 20 years. 2015 reform significantly restructured DV penalties.
Stalking is a misdemeanor (first offense) or felony (aggravated or repeat).
SC Office of Victim Services reimburses victims for medical, counseling, and economic losses.
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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