Legal Costs in South Carolina

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Introduction

Legal costs in South Carolina vary depending on the type of case, the complexity of the legal matter, and the attorney’s experience. South Carolina generally has moderate attorney fees, often lower than many Northeast and West Coast states, but costs can increase significantly in contested cases, trials, or matters involving expert witnesses.

Attorney rates may be higher in metropolitan areas such as Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, while rural areas often have lower average legal fees.

This guide provides an overview of legal costs in South Carolina, including attorney fees, court filing costs, and the main factors that influence legal expenses.


Average Lawyer Fees in South Carolina

Attorney fees in South Carolina vary by practice area and case complexity.

Typical attorney rates in South Carolina:

  • General practice attorneys: $200 – $325 per hour
  • Family law attorneys: $225 – $400 per hour
  • Criminal defense lawyers: $250 – $450 per hour
  • Personal injury lawyers: 30% – 40% contingency
  • Business and corporate lawyers: $275 – $550+ per hour

Rates are typically higher in urban and coastal markets than in smaller towns.

For national averages, see: How Much Do Lawyers Cost in the United States?


Court Costs in South Carolina

Court costs in South Carolina vary by court type and case category.

Legal costs have a way of showing up when life is already testing you. You might be trying to hold things together through Family law challenges, dealing with the emotional strain of divorce and child custody, or suddenly facing criminal defense and DUI charges that put your freedom and reputation at risk. For business owners, unexpected business litigation disputes can threaten years of hard work, while mounting debt may leave no option but bankruptcy filings. Others find themselves caught in workplace conflict leading to employment law claims, navigating uncertainty through immigration proceedings, or fighting for fairness after an accident through personal injury cases. Every one of these paths carries its own procedures, pressure, and financial realities — and together they shape the true cost of seeking legal protection when it matters most.

Common court costs include:

  • Civil and family court filing fees
  • Criminal court surcharges and assessments
  • Motion and hearing fees
  • Service of process and document filing fees

While base filing fees are set by statute, total court costs increase with additional hearings, motions, evaluations, and expert involvement.

Related guide: Court Costs in the United States


Factors That Affect Legal Costs in South Carolina

Legal costs in South Carolina are influenced by:

  • Type of legal case
  • Attorney experience and reputation
  • Case complexity and number of motions
  • Whether the case goes to trial
  • Geographic location (urban vs rural)

Cases involving litigation or expert testimony typically result in significantly higher legal expenses.


Legal Cost Guides by Case Type in South Carolina

Select a case type below:


Compare South Carolina Legal Costs to Other States

Legal costs in South Carolina are generally lower than in many Northeast and West Coast states, but comparable to other Southeastern states. Complex or contested cases can still become expensive regardless of location.

Compare legal costs by state here: Legal Costs by State


Conclusion

Legal costs in South Carolina depend on the type of case and how much attorney and court involvement is required. While South Carolina attorney fees are often moderate, contested litigation, trials, or complex financial and custody matters can significantly increase expenses. Understanding these costs helps individuals and businesses plan effectively and make informed legal decisions.