South Carolina § 20-3-30 - Residence requirement.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-3-30 — Residence requirement., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-3-30. Residence requirement.
In order to institute an action for divorce from the bonds of matrimony the plaintiff must have resided in this State at least one year prior to the commencement of the action or, if the plaintiff is a nonresident, the defendant must have so resided in this State for this period; provided, that when both parties are residents of the State when the action is commenced, the plaintiff must have resided in this State only three months prior to commencement of the action. The terms 'residents' or 'resided' as used in this section as it applies to a plaintiff or defendant stationed in this State on active duty military service means a continuous presence in this State for the period required regardless of intent to permanently remain in South Carolina.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 20-103; 1952 Code SECTION 20-103; 1949 (46) 216; 1951 (47) 539; 1975 (59) 310; 1987 Act No. 17 SECTION 1, eff March 31, 1987.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 20-3-30
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-3-30 cover?
Section 20-3-30 ("Residence requirement.") 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 § 20-3-30?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 20-3-30" (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 § 20-3-30 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.