Horry County Family Court

Horry County Family Court handles family-related legal matters, including divorce, child custody, and support cases. This page provides residents with essential information, forms, and resources to manage these issues efficiently. It also explains the court’s procedures and offers guidance on important steps for filing and attending hearings. Residents can find practical tips to prepare documents and understand timelines for their cases.

Horry County Family Court is the local court responsible for resolving family law cases in Horry County, South Carolina, handling matters such as divorce, child custody, child support, and domestic issues to ensure fair and accessible legal processes. Horry County Court also oversees a broader range of civil, criminal, and administrative cases across the county, giving residents a central place to find information about filings, schedules, and public records when navigating different parts of the justice system. This page helps individuals find guidance on filing procedures, accessing court forms, searching public records, and contacting the court for assistance, covering key topics such as divorce filings, custody agreements, support matters, mediation options, and other resources that support families throughout the legal process.

What is Horry County Family Court & Its Jurisdiction

Horry County Family Court is a division of the South Carolina Family Court system, operating under the South Carolina Judicial Branch. It serves as the primary court for resolving domestic and family matters within Horry County. Family Court handles a wide range of legal family matters involving domestic relationships. This includes divorce, legal separation, child custody and visitation, child support, and alimony or spousal support. The court also manages adoptions, name changes, division of marital property, and termination of parental rights.

In addition, juvenile cases—involving minors under 18—fall under its jurisdiction, particularly when criminal or delinquency issues arise. Horry County Family Court is the sole forum for addressing family and domestic issues in the county. Any legal disputes concerning domestic issues or family hearings must be filed here. This centralized approach ensures consistent rulings and specialized attention for sensitive family matters.

Types of Cases Heard in Horry County Family Court

The court focuses on domestic and family relationships, including:

• Divorce and Legal Separation: Handling dissolution of marriage and related proceedings.
• Child Custody & Visitation: Determining arrangements that prioritize the best interest of the child.
• Child Support & Alimony: Setting and enforcing financial obligations between spouses or parents.
• Adoption & Name Changes: Formalizing legal adoption and changes to personal identification.
• Division of Marital Property: Equitable distribution of assets acquired during marriage.
• Termination of Parental Rights: Cases involving the permanent removal of parental authority.
• Juvenile Matters: Criminal or delinquency cases for minors under 18 years old.

By handling these cases, Horry County Family Court ensures that disputes are resolved fairly while protecting the welfare of children and families. Family hearings are conducted with care to maintain privacy and legal clarity for all parties involved.

How to Search Court Records

Horry County Family Court keeps records for cases such as divorce, child custody, and support through the Clerk of Court. Many records are searchable online, allowing residents to find case information efficiently.

How to Search Horry County Family Court Records

Searching for family court records requires basic information about the case. To get the most accurate results, users should have:

• Full or last name of the parties involved
• Case type (divorce, custody, support, etc.)
• Filing or hearing date range
• Role in the case (plaintiff, defendant, petitioner)

Once this information is ready, follow these steps:

1. Go to the official court portal or records page.
2. Enter the search criteria in the provided fields.
3. Filter results by case type, status, or date to narrow searches.
4. Review the results, which display case numbers, parties, and docket entries.
5. Identify documents available for viewing online versus those requiring a formal request.

This method ensures accurate results and avoids confusion with similarly named cases.

Where to Access Records and Costs

Horry County provides multiple options for viewing family court records. Some are free online, while others require formal requests and fees. The main options include:

Some records may be sealed or partially redacted, and full access might not be available online. For certified copies, or for help with older or complex cases, contact the Clerk of Court:

Horry County Clerk of Court – Family Division
1301 Second Avenue, Conway, SC 29526
Phone: (843) 915-5360

Common Case Types & Services Offered

Horry County Family Court handles a variety of cases related to family law, providing services that help residents resolve legal matters efficiently. These cases include divorce filings, legal separations, child custody disputes, child support issues, and other family-related concerns. The court offers resources, forms, and guidance to ensure each case is processed accurately, while also supporting families through hearings and legal procedures. By organizing services clearly, the court makes it easier for individuals to understand what is required and to complete the necessary steps.

Divorce & Legal Separation / Divorce Filings

Divorce filings in Horry County Family Court begin with submitting the required documents to the Clerk of Court. The process addresses the legal separation of spouses, division of marital property, and, if children are involved, custody and child support matters.

Horry County handles divorce filings through a structured process that allows individuals to resolve both financial and family-related matters efficiently. Divorce filings cover issues such as marital property division, alimony or spousal support, and may include arrangements for custody cases and child support. The court aims to provide clear steps and resources to help residents complete filings accurately.

Divorce Filing Process

The county provides a downloadable Divorce Packet through the Horry County Government website. This packet contains instructions, required forms, and checklists for filing a divorce. The general process includes:

1. Complete the Divorce Packet: Fill out all forms and provide the necessary personal and marital information.
2. Attach the Cover Sheet: This summary sheet ensures the Clerk of Court has the correct case information.
3. File with the Clerk of Court: Submit your completed packet in person or by mail.
4. Pay Filing Fees: Fees vary depending on case type; fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants.

If the divorce involves children, the packet will guide applicants to include custody documentation, child support worksheets, or a parenting plan. These forms help the court determine arrangements that are fair and legally binding.

Key Considerations in Divorce Cases

Divorces often include several key components that the court addresses during family hearings:

• Marital Property Division: Equitable distribution of shared assets and debts.
• Alimony/Spousal Support: Payments one spouse may provide to the other, depending on financial need and duration of marriage.
• Custody and Parenting Plans: Agreements on physical and legal custody for children.
• Child Support: Calculated according to state guidelines to ensure proper financial support for minor children.

Horry County Family Court provides resources and staff guidance to help applicants understand which forms are required for their specific situation. Access to the Divorce Packet and instructions ensures that divorce filings are submitted correctly, reducing delays and the need for repeated court visits.

Child Custody & Visitation / Parenting Plans

Horry County Family Court plays a central role in setting custody and visitation arrangements for minors. The court ensures that decisions reflect the best interests of the child while balancing parental rights in custody cases.

Custody, Visitation, and Parenting Plans

In family law, several key terms guide custody and visitation decisions:

• Legal Custody: The right to make major decisions about a child’s education, healthcare, and welfare.
• Physical Custody: Determines where the child lives and who provides day-to-day care.
• Visitation Rights / Schedule: The agreed-upon times a non-custodial parent spends with the child.
• Parenting Plans: Written agreements outlining custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and parental responsibilities.
• Orders for Visitation: Court-issued instructions that enforce visitation schedules and responsibilities.

These arrangements are often part of a child custody hearing, where judges review the best interests of the child and family dynamics. Properly structured parenting plans can reduce conflicts and provide clarity for both parents.

Role of a Guardian ad Litem (GAL)

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) may be appointed in custody or visitation matters to represent the child’s best interests. According to Axelrod & Associates, P.A., a GAL conducts investigations, interviews parents and children, and reports recommendations to the court. They are especially useful in cases involving complex domestic issues or disputes about a child’s welfare. GALs do not make decisions for the court but provide guidance that helps judges reach informed rulings. Their presence ensures that children have a voice during custody cases, particularly when parents disagree.

Typical Steps in Custody and Visitation Cases

While individual cases may vary, the Horry County Family Court process generally includes:

1. Filing a Custody Petition: A parent requests the court to establish legal or physical custody.
2. Submitting a Proposed Parenting Plan: Parents outline desired custody and visitation schedules.
3. Temporary Orders: Courts may issue short-term arrangements while the case is pending.
4. Family Hearings: Judges review evidence, hear testimony, and consider reports from GALs if appointed.
5. Final Custody Order: The court issues a decision, including legal and physical custody details and visitation schedules.

Forms for these proceedings, including visitation modification packets, are available on the Horry County Government website.

Modifying Custody or Visitation

Circumstances can change, and the court may revisit custody or visitation arrangements if there are significant changes in the child’s or parents’ situations. Parents can request modifications using specific forms and follow procedures outlined by the Clerk’s office. This ensures that parenting plans remain fair, enforceable, and aligned with the child’s evolving needs.

Tips for Parents

• Keep visitation schedules consistent to support the child’s stability.
• Work collaboratively on parenting plans whenever possible.
• Document any significant changes that may affect custody or visitation.
• Attend all scheduled family hearings and follow court orders strictly.

Horry County Family Court aims to balance parental rights with the child’s well-being. Clear parenting plans and well-defined visitation schedules reduce conflicts and support a healthier environment for children.

Child Support & Spousal/Alimony Support

Child support ensures children receive financial support from both parents, while alimony or spousal support provides temporary or ongoing financial assistance to a former spouse after divorce. Marriage and Divorce Records often play an important role in verifying past court actions and documenting legal changes between spouses. Horry County Family Court oversees these matters to ensure fair and enforceable support arrangements.

Child Support in Horry County

The Horry County Family Court handles child support orders and any subsequent modifications. Child support covers basic needs, including housing, food, healthcare, and education, based on the parents’ income and the child’s requirements.

The Clerk of Court plays a central role in child support administration by:

• Collecting and disbursing payments to custodial parents
• Processing child support orders and payment records
• Maintaining official documentation for enforcement purposes

Parents seeking changes to their child support arrangement can request a modification through the Clerk’s office. Forms are available for increases or decreases in child support, depending on changes in circumstances.

Common triggers for modifications include:

• Significant income changes for either parent
• Adjustments to the parenting plan or custody arrangements
• Changes in the child’s needs or expenses

Enforcement measures exist if payments are missed or delayed. The court can implement wage garnishment, intercept tax refunds, or place liens to ensure compliance with support orders.

Alimony / Spousal Support

Alimony, also referred to as spousal support, is financial assistance provided from one spouse to another following divorce. The Family Court determines the amount and duration based on factors such as:

• Length of the marriage
• Each spouse’s financial resources and earning capacity
• Standard of living established during the marriage

Like child support, alimony can also be modified if significant financial or personal circumstances change after the initial court order. Requests for modification require documentation of income changes, employment status, or other relevant factors.

Other Family Court Matters

Horry County Family Court handles a variety of legal matters beyond divorce and child custody. These include name changes, adoption, juvenile cases, and domestic abuse or protective orders, all under the court’s family law jurisdiction.

Name Changes and Related Legal Matters

Individuals seeking a legal name change in Horry County may file a name-change petition through Family Court. A name-change packet, available from the court, provides instructions and required forms. Family Court can also oversee related matters, such as:

• Adoption and parental rights: Includes adoption of minors and termination of parental rights when legally necessary.
• Other legal family matters: Guardianship changes, consent for minors’ legal decisions, and similar requests.

These processes involve filing forms, paying fees, and attending hearings. Family Court ensures that all name changes and related petitions comply with South Carolina law.

Juvenile Cases

Minors under 18 charged with certain offenses may fall under the jurisdiction of Family Court. These cases can involve:

• Delinquency hearings for criminal behavior.
• Child protection matters if safety or neglect issues arise.
• Truancy or school-related legal matters, in some cases.

Family Court aims to balance accountability with rehabilitation, often offering programs focused on support and guidance rather than punishment alone.

Domestic Abuse and Protective Orders

Family Court also addresses domestic issues, including:

• Protective orders for victims of domestic abuse.
• Hearings related to domestic violence allegations.
• Temporary or permanent injunctions to protect family members.

Anyone seeking relief or guidance on protective orders should consult Family Court staff or legal counsel for specific requirements and procedures. This ensures proper filing and timely hearings while safeguarding the rights of all involved parties.

What to Expect at a Family Court Hearing

Attending a family court hearing can feel stressful, but knowing the process and what to expect can make it more manageable. Family hearings in Horry County handle domestic issues such as divorce, custody, visitation, and child support.

Types of Family Hearings

Family court cases often follow a structured schedule. Some of the most common hearings include:

• Initial Hearings: The first court appearance where parties are informed of their rights and responsibilities. Temporary measures may be discussed.
• Temporary Orders: These hearings address short-term arrangements for custody, visitation, or support until a final decision is made.
• Settlement Hearings: Parties may negotiate agreements outside of a full trial to resolve disputes efficiently.
• Final Hearings: These determine the permanent resolution of divorce, custody, or visitation matters.

Each hearing focuses on resolving legal family matters in a fair and structured way. Family hearings aim to ensure that decisions reflect the best interests of children and families involved.

The Role of a Guardian ad Litem

When minors are part of a case, a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) may be appointed. GALs serve as independent investigators to protect the child’s best interests. Key responsibilities include:

• Meeting with the child and family members
• Visiting the child’s home and school
• Reviewing medical, educational, and other relevant records
• Interviewing parents, caregivers, and other parties involved

GALs provide the court with neutral, fact-based reports that can influence custody and visitation decisions. While GALs may offer recommendations, their primary role is to advocate for the child’s welfare without taking sides. This approach helps judges make informed decisions in sensitive domestic issues.

Courtroom Etiquette and Preparation

Following proper etiquette ensures hearings proceed smoothly. Key points include:

• Dress professionally – business casual or formal attire is recommended.
• Arrive on time – punctuality reflects respect for the court and other parties.
• Bring documents – have all necessary forms, evidence, and identification ready.
• Behavior – remain calm, speak respectfully, and follow the judge’s instructions.

The Horry County Clerk’s office emphasizes efficient and timely service for all visitors. For sensitive cases, including domestic abuse or juvenile matters, additional privacy and protection measures may be applied.

How to File — Forms & Process

Filing a case in Horry County Family Court begins with completing the correct forms and submitting them at the Clerk of Court’s office. The court provides official forms online and in person for matters such as divorce, child support, visitation, and name changes.

Official Forms and Where to Find Them

Horry County Family Court offers all necessary forms through the Clerk of Court website and in the courthouse. Residents can also reference the Horry County Government portal for links to packets and procedural instructions.

The most commonly used forms include:

• Divorce Packet – for filing dissolution of marriage
• Visitation Packet – to request parenting time arrangements
• Child Support Modification Packet – for increasing or decreasing support obligations
• Name Change Forms – to legally change a minor or adult name
• Family Court Cover Sheet (Form 4) – required for all family court filings
• Motion & Order Forms – for specific requests such as temporary orders

These forms provide structured guidance to ensure filings meet legal requirements. Many packets include instructions and checklists to help applicants prepare their submissions.

Step Filing Process

Once the correct form is selected, the filing process generally follows these steps:

1. Complete the form(s) thoroughly, providing accurate personal, financial, and family information.
2. Fill out the Family Court Cover Sheet (Form 4) to summarize the filing.
3. Gather supporting documentation such as children’s birth certificates, financial records, or prior court orders.
4. Submit the forms to the Clerk of Court’s office either in person or by mail.
5. Pay the required filing fee, which varies depending on the case type.
6. Attend scheduled hearings as notified by the court.
7. Follow court orders once the judge issues a ruling or judgment.

Following these steps carefully can reduce delays and improve case handling.

Self-Represented Litigants

Many individuals file without a lawyer, known as pro se representation. Horry County Family Court supports self-represented litigants with self-help resources available through the South Carolina Judicial Branch. These resources provide guidance for legal family matters, explain form requirements, and offer tips for preparing hearings. Using these resources can make filing more straightforward for those handling cases independently.

Additional Resources & Legal Help

Some family court matters require professional legal support, especially in cases like contested divorces, child custody disputes, or abuse-related issues. Individuals can access local and statewide resources to get help with legal family matters, including domestic issues, adoption, and parental rights.

When facing complex family-law situations, consulting a qualified attorney is often necessary. South Carolina Legal Services (SCLS) offers free or low-cost legal assistance for eligible residents dealing with family disputes, domestic violence, and other civil legal matters. Their services can help with issues such as child support, custody arrangements, divorce, and protection orders. Additionally, the South Carolina Judicial Branch provides self-help resources for people representing themselves, including forms, instructions, and guidance for family court procedures.

In certain cases, the law provides additional support:

• Court-appointed attorneys may be assigned in situations like termination of parental rights, juvenile matters, or severe abuse/neglect cases.
• Guardians ad Litem (GALs) can be appointed to represent the best interests of children in custody, adoption, or abuse cases.
• These appointments ensure that vulnerable parties receive proper legal representation, even if they cannot afford an attorney.

For practical guidance, contacting the Horry County Clerk of Court can help clarify procedures, deadlines, and available resources. Clerks can provide general information about filings and court processes, though they cannot offer legal advice.

Location, Directions & Accessibility

Horry County Family Court is located in downtown Conway, South Carolina, making it easy for residents to visit for family-related legal matters. The court provides clear directions, accessible facilities, and convenient contact options for public inquiries.

Official Address & Contact Information

• Court Name: Horry County Family Court
• Address: 1301 Second Avenue, Conway, SC 29526
• Family Court Phone: (843) 915‑5081
• General Clerk of Court: (843) 915‑5080
• Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Directions & Parking
The court is situated near Highway 501 in downtown Conway, making it easily reachable by car or public transit. Visitors can park on-site, with designated spots available for court guests. For added convenience, a Google Map can be embedded directly on the page to help users plan their route.

Accessibility Features
Horry County Family Court is fully accessible to visitors with mobility needs:

• Wheelchair ramps at all main entrances
• Elevators connecting all floors
• Accessible restrooms on each level

Public transportation options are available, including local bus stops within walking distance of the courthouse. This ensures residents without private transportation can still reach the court efficiently.

Tips for Visitors

• Arrive early to allow time for security screening
• Bring any necessary documents in an organized folder
• Call the Family Court at (843) 915‑5081 if directions or assistance is needed

Quick Reference Table

FAQ — Common Questions about Family Court

Horry County Family Court handles a wide range of legal matters involving families and children, including divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and other family-related issues. Individuals seeking assistance with filings or court processes can access forms and filings through the Clerk’s office to start their case.

What types of cases does Horry County Family Court handle?

Horry County Family Court manages various legal family matters, including divorce and separation, child custody and visitation disputes, child and spousal support, adoption proceedings, name changes, and juvenile cases. The court focuses on ensuring that all actions comply with South Carolina law while prioritizing the best interests of the children involved. Access to self‑help resources is available for those who need guidance with completing forms or understanding procedures.

How do I file for divorce or custody?

Filing for divorce or custody in Horry County begins with obtaining the correct forms and filings from the Clerk of Court website. Applicants must complete the forms carefully, submit them to the Clerk’s office, and pay the required filing fees. Custody filings often require additional documentation, such as parenting plans or financial affidavits, to ensure the court has all necessary information to make informed decisions.

Where is the court located, and how do I contact it?

Horry County Family Court is located at 1301 2nd Avenue, Conway, SC 29526, and can be reached by phone at (843) 915-5150 during regular office hours from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The Clerk’s office serves as the primary contact for questions regarding filings, schedules, or procedures, and also provides self‑help resources for visitors seeking guidance on completing standard forms or understanding basic court processes.

Can I search case records online?

Yes, Horry County offers a court records search through its public index and docket portal, allowing users to search for cases by name, case type, or date range. While most records are available to the public, some, such as juvenile or sensitive family cases, may be sealed. The portal provides access to case summaries, filing histories, and hearing dates, helping individuals stay informed about ongoing proceedings.

What is a Guardian ad Litem, and when is one appointed?

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is a court-appointed advocate representing the best interests of a child in custody or family-related cases. The GAL investigates the child’s situation, interviews parents or guardians, and submits recommendations to the court to ensure the child’s welfare is considered during legal decisions. This role is especially important in cases involving custody disputes or other child-centered legal matters.