Trustworthy Lawyer When Fault for Divorce is an Issue
Marriages fail for all sorts of reasons. Some behaviors by a spouse are recognized by our courts as grounds for divorce, and others are not. The circumstances of your relationship — including your spouse's conduct — may well influence the best way to proceed in your divorce. They may also determine how quickly your case can be resolved and the overall outcome you can achieve.
At the Law Office of Emily G. Johnston, we will empathize with you if you are trying to get out of a bad marriage — or if your spouse has made the decision to move on and you must defend your rights. We can offer sound counsel based on a wealth of experience with Charleston-Mt. Pleasant area divorce cases. Please contact us to arrange a helpful consultation on grounds for divorce, your legal options, and other important issues.
Adultery — Desertion — Abuse — Addiction
Unlike some other U.S. states that recognize irreconcilable differences or something similar, living separate and apart for one year represents the only "no-fault" grounds for divorce in South Carolina. The other recognized grounds for divorce are:
- Adultery
- Desertion for a year or more
- Physical cruelty
- Habitual drunkenness or drug abuse
Modern technology poses many temptations we may consider destructive, but not all harmful activities are a basis for legal action. Viewing Internet pornography is not considered grounds for divorce. Neither is posting a profile or even "exploring" relationship possibilities on Web sites such as Facebook or MySpace.
Caring Counsel to Help You Weigh Benefits against Costs and Risks
Our firm is well versed in the nuances of South Carolina family law and all the legal options you have from the outset of your case. We will be frank and direct in explaining what you may have to gain — such as a more favorable property settlement or custody/visitation stipulations that are important to you — if we succeed in substantiating grounds for divorce. Equally important, we will be honest and thorough in presenting risks and estimating likely costs.
When you need objectivity and practical advice based on a wealth of family law experience, we can help. Please contact us today to arrange an initial consultation focused on your immediate needs and longer-term well being.
