South Carolina § 15-3-380 - Effect of forty-year lapse.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 15-3-380 — Effect of forty-year lapse., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-3-380. Effect of forty-year lapse.
No action shall be commenced in any case for the recovery of real property or for any interest therein against a person in possession under claim of title by virtue of a written instrument unless the person claiming, his ancestor or grantor, was actually in the possession of the same or a part thereof within forty years from the commencement of such action. And the possession of a defendant, sole or connected, pursuant to the provisions of this section shall be deemed valid against the world after the lapse of such a period.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 10-129; 1952 Code SECTION 10-129; 1942 Code SECTION 385; 1932 Code SECTION 385; Civ. P. '22 SECTION 328; Civ. P. '12 SECTION 134; Civ. P. '02 SECTION 109; 1873 (15) 496.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 15-3-380
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 15-3-380 cover?
Section 15-3-380 ("Effect of forty-year lapse.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Carolina § 15-3-380?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 15-3-380" (South Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 15-3-380 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.