Anderson County Court Filings
Anderson County family court records are kept at the Clerk of Court at 100 South Main Street in Anderson. The Family Court handles divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, name changes, and juvenile matters for all Anderson County residents. You can search Anderson County family court case records online through the ACPASS Public Records Index and the SC Judicial Branch at sccourts.org, or visit the courthouse in person during regular business hours to find and copy case files.
Anderson County Quick Facts
Anderson County Family Court Records Access
Anderson County uses the ACPASS Public Records Index, which allows you to search for family court cases by name, case number, or filing date at no cost. This system is a good starting point when you need to confirm that a case exists or identify its current status. You can also use the statewide SC Judicial Branch Public Index and select Anderson County to search records across all court divisions including Family Court.
The South Carolina Family Court official page at sccourts.org outlines the exclusive jurisdiction held by family courts across all 46 counties, including Anderson County.
The South Carolina Family Court official page outlines the exclusive jurisdiction held by family courts across all 46 counties.
| Court |
Anderson County Family Court 100 South Main Street Anderson, SC 29624 Mailing: PO Box 8002, Anderson, SC 29622 |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Online Search | sccourts.org/case-records-search |
| Lawyer Referral | SC Bar: 1-800-868-2284 |
Types of Family Court Cases in Anderson County
The Anderson County Family Court holds exclusive jurisdiction over domestic and family matters as defined by S.C. Code Ann. § 63-3-530. This includes annulment, divorce, and legal separation, as well as all matters involving children. No other court in Anderson County can hear these types of cases. The Family Court was established in 1976 and remains a specialized division of the South Carolina court system.
In Anderson County, the Family Court also handles juvenile matters involving children under 17 who are charged with violations of state or municipal law. These cases differ from adult criminal proceedings and are handled with additional protections for the minor. Records from juvenile cases are confidential under South Carolina law.
Self-help packets are available in Anderson County for the most common case types. These include the Uncontested Divorce Packet, Child Visitation Packet, Child Support Modification Packet, and Adult Name Change Packet. These packets help self-represented parties navigate the filing process. The court charges a $40.00 application fee (cash only, non-refundable) for court-appointed attorneys in juvenile and DSS cases.
Note: Pro se litigants in Anderson County are responsible for following all applicable laws and court rules, even without an attorney.
Anderson County Family Court Filing Fees
Most family court filings in Anderson County carry a $150 fee at the time of submission. This applies to divorce, custody, support, adoption, paternity, and name change petitions. Some motions filed after the case opens carry separate fees. When you arrive at the Clerk of Court's office, staff can confirm the exact fee for your case type before you pay.
Certain case types have no filing fee in Anderson County. DSS abuse and neglect cases, domestic abuse protection orders, and juvenile delinquency petitions do not require a filing fee. If you qualify for fee waiver based on low income, submit an affidavit with the court to request that fees be reduced or waived. The Clerk can provide the appropriate form for this process.
How to Get Copies of Anderson Family Court Records
To get copies of Anderson County family court records, visit the Clerk of Court at 100 South Main Street. Bring your photo ID and any information you have about the case. Staff will search by party name or case number. Copies are made while you wait in most cases. Fees apply per page and are set by state law.
You can also request records by mail. Write to the Anderson County Clerk of Court at PO Box 8002, Anderson, SC 29622. Include the names of the parties, the approximate year of filing, the type of records needed, and whether certified copies are required. Include a check or money order for the copy fees. Processing times for mailed requests depend on staff availability and how quickly the file can be located.
The ACPASS Public Records Index gives you free online access to case index data. For documents beyond basic case information, in-person or written requests are required. Certified copies are needed for legal purposes such as out-of-state enforcement or name change applications. Plain copies are suitable for most personal uses.
Anderson County Family Court Forms and Self-Help
The Anderson County Family Court provides self-help packets for common case types. These include the Uncontested Divorce Packet, Child Visitation Packet, Child Support Modification Packet, and Adult Name Change Packet. These packets contain the necessary forms along with step-by-step instructions for self-represented parties.
Official South Carolina Family Court forms are also available at sccourts.org/court-forms. These forms are designed for use in all 46 counties including Anderson County. Use caution when choosing between packets and forms to make sure you have the correct version for your specific filing. The Clerk of Court staff in Anderson County can tell you which forms apply to your case type, but they cannot give legal advice.
Legal Help in Anderson County
Anderson County residents can get legal referrals through the South Carolina Bar Lawyer Referral Service at 1-800-868-2284. This toll-free number connects you with a licensed attorney who handles family law matters in the Anderson area. Many attorneys offer reduced fees for an initial visit.
SC Legal Services provides free civil legal assistance to low-income residents of Anderson County through their LATIS intake line at 1-888-346-5592. They handle family court matters including divorce, custody, support, and protection orders. Visit sclegal.org to check eligibility and apply. The SC Judicial Branch website also has procedural guides and court rules for self-represented parties in Anderson County Family Court.
Related Records in Anderson County
Other county offices in Anderson County maintain records that may relate to your family court case. The Probate Court handles marriage licenses and estate matters, both of which can be relevant in divorce and custody proceedings. The Register of Deeds holds property records that may reflect deed transfers resulting from court-ordered property division in Anderson County divorce cases.
Child support enforcement in Anderson County is managed by the South Carolina Department of Social Services. You can look up support case details and payment history through the DSS Child Support portal. If a support order was entered by the Anderson County Family Court, DSS can assist with questions about enforcement and modification. Contact DSS directly or visit their local Anderson County office for in-person assistance.
Nearby Counties
Anderson County is located in the northwestern corner of South Carolina. It borders several Upstate counties. File your family court case where you live to ensure proper jurisdiction. If you recently moved, confirm your current county of residence before filing.