South Carolina § 20-1-30 - Cohabitation prior to emancipation as marriage.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-1-30 — Cohabitation prior to emancipation as marriage., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-1-30. Cohabitation prior to emancipation as marriage.
All persons in this State who, previous to their actual emancipation, had undertaken and agreed to occupy the relation to each other of husband and wife and were cohabiting as such or in any way recognizing the relation as still existing on March 12, 1872, whether the rites of marriage have been celebrated or not, shall be deemed husband and wife, and be entitled to all the rights and privileges and be subject to all the duties and obligations of that relation, in like manner as if they had been duly married according to law.
But the provisions of this section shall not be deemed to extend to persons who have agreed to live in concubinage after their emancipation.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 20-3; 1952 Code SECTION 20-3; 1942 Code SECTIONS 8569, 8570; 1932 Code SECTIONS 8569, 8570; Civ. C. '22 SECTIONS 5534, 5535; Civ. C. '12 SECTIONS 3755, 3756; Civ. C. '02 SECTIONS 2662, 2663; G. S. 2030, 2031; R. S. 2161, 2162; 1872 (15) 183.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 20-1-30
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-1-30 cover?
Section 20-1-30 ("Cohabitation prior to emancipation as marriage.") 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 § 20-1-30?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-1-30" (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 § 20-1-30 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.