Charleston County Marriage and Divorce Records provide official documentation of marriages and divorces filed in the county. These public records include names of spouses, dates of marriage or divorce, and the filing location. Residents, researchers, and legal professionals rely on these records for legal verification, family history, and personal reference. The records help confirm marital status and are often used in legal, financial, or personal matters. Most records are organized chronologically and can be requested for official purposes.
Vital records in Charleston County cover key life events like marriages and divorces. These records are maintained by the Clerk of Court and serve as verified sources of information. The Charleston County Court plays a central role in overseeing the filing, storage, and access procedures for these official documents, ensuring they are handled according to established legal standards. Records held through the Charleston County Court are essential for legal procedures, genealogical research, and confirming marital status. Copies may be available in both digital and physical formats, depending on record type and eligibility. These documents are often referenced for background checks, historical research, or personal documentation. Keeping accurate vital records ensures transparency and accessibility for the community.
What are Charleston County Marriage Records
Charleston County marriage records are official documents that verify a legal marriage between two people. These records include key details like names, marriage dates, and license numbers, and can be requested in either record copies or certified copies.
What Are Marriage Records?
Marriage records in Charleston County are official files maintained by the government to document marriages, including the full names of both spouses, the date and location of the marriage, and the license or certificate number. These records serve as legal proof of marriage and may be required for purposes such as name changes, insurance claims, or legal proceedings. There are two main types: record copies, which are standard copies for personal or informational use, and certified copies, which include an official seal and signature and are legally valid for court or government use. Maintaining accurate records ensures transparency and supports legal verification for residents.
Where Marriage Records Are Held
Marriage records in Charleston County are primarily held at the Charleston County Probate Court. The office is responsible for issuing marriage licenses, maintaining marriage certificates, and processing requests for copies.
Probate Court Charleston County
- Address: 100 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401
- Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Phone: (843) 958-4600
In some cases, historical or older marriage records may also be stored with South Carolina Vital Records, especially for marriages recorded before county-level recordkeeping was standardized. Requests through the state office can provide certified copies if the county office cannot supply them.
Types of Marriage Documents Available
Charleston County provides several types of marriage-related documents depending on the need:
- Marriage Certificates: Official proof of marriage for legal and personal use.
- Marriage Licenses: Issued before a marriage occurs; proof that the couple was legally authorized to marry.
- Historical Records: Older records that may be archived for research, genealogy, or legal verification.
Each document type serves a distinct purpose. Certificates are generally used for legal or formal transactions, licenses verify the authorization for marriage, and historical records are valuable for family research or historical study.
Who Can Request Marriage Records?
Eligibility for requesting Charleston County marriage records depends on the type of copy: certified copies are generally available only to spouses, immediate family, or legal representatives, while record copies are often accessible to anyone for informational or research purposes. Requesters must provide proper identification, and fees may apply depending on the document. Public access rules protect personal privacy while allowing verification when legally required.
How to Search Charleston County Court Records Correctly
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Official Websites to Search Charleston County Court Records
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Charleston County Clerk of Court Civil, Criminal, Divorce
- Search URL:
https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/clerk-of-court/
- Record Types:
Civil cases, criminal cases, Family Court cases, divorce records - Search Method:
Name-based search or case number lookup - What Results Show:
Case number, filing date, party names, court type
Charleston County Probate Court, Marriage Records
- Search URL:
https://www.charlestoncounty.org/departments/probate/index.php
- Record Types:
Marriage records, estate filings - Search Method:
Party name and approximate year - What Results Show:
Marriage date, names of spouses, record index details
South Carolina Judicial Branch Case Search
- Search URL:
https://www.sccourts.org/caseSearch/
- Open the official South Carolina case search page.
- An interactive map of the state is displayed.
- Select the required county or court area from the map.
- A new page opens with an access notice.
- Click “I Accept” to continue.
- The public case search tool opens.
- Enter search details to view available case records.
Record Viewing, Download, and Copy Costs
| Source | View Records | Download Fee | Certified Copy Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clerk of Court | Free | $0.50–$1.00 per page | $10–$25 |
| Probate Court | Free | Limited | $12–$20 |
| SC Judicial Branch | Free | Not available | Not available |
| Public record portals | Free–Paid | Varies | Separate request |
Viewing indexed records is mostly free. Download fees depend on page count. Certified copies cost more since they carry court seals.
How to Request Charleston County Marriage Records: Steps
Requesting marriage records in Charleston County is straightforward if the correct steps are followed. Records can be obtained online, in person, or by mail, with options for standard or certified copies to suit different needs.
Online Search Options
Charleston County residents can search records online through official county and state portals, such as the Charleston County Probate Court and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) Vital Records website, which allow quick access to marriage licenses and certificates. Authorized third-party services may also provide these records, but often charge higher fees and take longer to process, so caution is advised. Users should have the full names of both spouses, include date ranges if possible, and save confirmation receipts for reference.
In‑Person Requests
Residents can request records directly at the Charleston County Probate Court. In-person requests often allow for quicker service and instant receipt of certified copies.
What to Bring:
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport)
- Completed request form (available at the office)
- Payment for fees (cash, check, or card, depending on the office policy)
Office Details:
- Location: 100 Broad Street, Charleston, SC 29401
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Procedure:
- Fill out the request form with the correct information.
- Submit the form to the clerk.
- Pay the applicable fee.
- Receive a certified or standard copy immediately if available.
Mail or Phone Requests
Marriage records can be requested by mail or phone, especially for those living outside Charleston County. Mail requests require a completed certified copy request form, a copy of a valid photo ID, payment via check or money order, and a self-addressed stamped envelope, sent to Charleston County Probate Court, 100 Broad Street. Phone requests are mainly for general inquiries and guidance, while payment and forms must be submitted by mail. Standard processing usually takes 2–4 weeks, while expedited options are available for an additional fee.
Processing Times & Fees
Obtaining marriage records involves local and state fees that vary depending on the type of copy requested. In-person requests typically cost $10–$15 for standard copies and $20–$25 for expedited copies, while mail or online requests range from $15–$35 depending on speed and method. Standard processing by mail generally takes 2–4 weeks, while online or expedited requests are faster but may incur additional charges. Accurate payment and correct selection of copy type help prevent delays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Errors in requesting marriage records can slow processing, so it is important to avoid incomplete forms, incorrect fees, missing identification, and incorrect mailing addresses. Using unverified third-party services may result in extra costs or delays. Double-checking names, dates, and payment before submission ensures a smoother process and faster receipt of certified or record copies.
What are the Charleston County Divorce Records
Divorce records in Charleston County are official documents that detail the legal end of a marriage. These records include decrees, case files, and related reports that are often part of the public record.
What Are Divorce Records?
Divorce records are formal documents that provide legal proof of a marriage’s dissolution. They typically include divorce decrees, which outline the court’s decisions regarding property division, child custody, and spousal support. Along with decrees, case files and reports often contain detailed information about the proceedings, motions, and court orders.
These records serve as an official reference for individuals, legal professionals, and government agencies. They are commonly used for matters such as updating marital status, applying for government benefits, or verifying information in background checks. In Charleston County, divorce records are generally public records, meaning certain parts of the documents can be accessed by anyone, while sensitive details may be restricted.
Key points about divorce records:
- Include legal agreements and court orders.
- Show dates of filing and final judgment.
- May include financial arrangements and custody decisions.
Where Divorce Records Are Stored
Divorce records are typically maintained by the Family Court and the Clerk of Court in Charleston County. The Family Court handles the judicial process and retains copies of rulings and case files. The Clerk of Court manages official filings, ensuring records are properly recorded and stored for public reference.
Some older or vital documents may also be kept by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) – Vital Records Division, though this generally applies to marriage or divorce certificates rather than full case files. Access rules differ depending on where the record is held, and some documents may require formal requests or identification.
Storage locations summary:
| Location | Type of Records | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Family Court | Case files, divorce decrees | Holds official court rulings |
| Clerk of Court | Filed motions, court orders | Public access available |
| Vital Records | Divorce certificates | Typically requires formal request |
How to Request Charleston County Divorce Records
Charleston County divorce records can be requested online, in person, or by mail through the Clerk of Court. Each option serves a different need based on speed, document type, and copy certification.
Online Divorce Record Search
Charleston County offers a public index that lets users search records online by party name, case number, or filing year, which helps locate basic divorce case details like docket history and judgment dates. This option works well for initial research, though full divorce decrees and certified copies are usually unavailable online, and older or sealed cases may not appear due to privacy limits.
In-Person Requests at the Clerk of Court
In-person requests allow direct help from staff and offer the fastest path to certified copies. This option suits users who need official divorce records for legal or personal documentation. Requests take place at the Charleston County Clerk of Court’s office during business hours. Staff members locate files and explain copy options. Visiting in person reduces delays linked to missing details. Preparation makes the visit smoother. Bringing proper identification and case information speeds up processing. Payment occurs at the counter once the request is approved.
Step process:
- Visit the Clerk of Court’s civil division
- Provide names, case number, or divorce year
- Show a valid photo ID
- Request standard or certified copies
- Pay required fees
Helpful items to bring:
- Government-issued ID
- Case number or filing year
- Cash or card for payment
Mail or Third-Party Requests
Mail requests work well for users unable to visit the courthouse. Third-party services may assist with document retrieval, though fees vary. A written request must include full names, divorce date, and case number if known. A self-addressed stamped envelope supports faster return delivery. Incomplete forms often slow processing. Mail requests go to the Charleston County Clerk of Court mailing address. Third-party providers submit similar requests on behalf of the requester and charge service fees on top of court costs.
Mail request checklist:
- Written request form or letter
- Full names of both parties
- Divorce date or approximate year
- Payment by money order or check
- Return mailing envelope
Mailing address example format:
| Office | Address |
|---|---|
| Clerk of Court | Charleston County Clerk of Court, P.O. Box XXXX, Charleston, SC |
Fees & Turnaround Times
Fees vary by copy type, with standard copies costing less than certified copies, which include per-page charges and a certification fee. Online searches return results instantly, in-person requests often process the same day, and mail requests usually take one to two weeks, depending on request volume and record availability.
(FAQ) About Marriage and Divorce Records
Charleston County marriage and divorce records follow South Carolina public record laws and long-term retention rules. Many records are public to view, yet certified copies have request limits based on record type and who is asking.
How long does Charleston County keep marriage and divorce records?
Charleston County keeps marriage and divorce records permanently under South Carolina record retention laws. Marriage records are first recorded at the county level and then maintained by the state’s vital records office, while divorce records remain with the Clerk of Court and state archives. Older records may appear in microfilm or digitized formats, which still count as official public records. Many residents search these files for family history, proof of marital status, or legal documentation, making long-term preservation a key public service.
Can someone get a certified copy without being a spouse?
Certified copies are not available to everyone right away. South Carolina limits certified copies of marriage and divorce records to protect privacy during a restricted period. During that time, only certain requestors, such as one of the spouses or an approved legal representative, may qualify. Once the restriction period ends, more requestors may qualify, though some limits can still apply. Non-certified copies are often available for reference or personal use, yet they do not carry legal weight for official purposes.
How to correct errors on a marriage certificate
Errors on a marriage certificate can create issues with identification, benefits, or legal filings. Charleston County corrections are handled through a formal amendment process managed by the state vital records office. Common issues include misspelled names, incorrect dates, or data entry mistakes. The request usually requires an amendment form, supporting documents that show the correct information, and a processing fee. Simple errors often process faster than changes tied to identity or dates.
What’s the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate?
A marriage license and a marriage certificate serve very different purposes. A marriage license is issued before a wedding and gives legal permission for the ceremony to take place. A marriage certificate is issued after the ceremony and proves that the marriage occurred. Many agencies request a marriage certificate, not the license, for name changes, insurance updates, or legal records. Confusing these two documents often leads to rejected applications or delays.
Are divorce records public in South Carolina?
Divorce records are public records in South Carolina, which means most people can view basic case details. Public information often includes party names, case numbers, filing dates, and final judgment dates. Some parts of a divorce file may remain private, such as financial statements or child-related documents. Certified divorce decrees usually require a formal request through the Charleston County Clerk of Court and may involve copy and certification fees.