South Carolina § 20-3-80 - Required delays before reference and final decree; exceptions.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-3-80 — Required delays before reference and final decree; exceptions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-3-80. Required delays before reference and final decree; exceptions.
No reference shall be had before two months after the filing of the complaint in the office of the Clerk of Court, nor shall a final decree be granted before three months after such filing.
Provided, however, that when the plaintiff seeks a divorce on the grounds of desertion or separation for one year, the hearing may be held and the decree issued after the responsive pleadings have been filed or after the respondent has been adjudged to be in default whichever occurs sooner.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 20-108; 1952 Code SECTION 20-108; 1949 (46) 216; 1979 Act No. 10 SECTION 2.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 20-3-80
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-3-80 cover?
Section 20-3-80 ("Required delays before reference and final decree; exceptions.") 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 § 20-3-80?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-3-80" (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 § 20-3-80 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.