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South Carolina Small Claims Court Limits
South Carolina small claims court limit is $7,500 for all plaintiffs. Cases are heard in Magistrate Court.
Court Name: Magistrate Court
Official Website: https://www.sccourts.org/resources/general-public/self-help-resources/
Filing Fees in South Carolina
Filing fees vary based on the amount you're claiming:
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Typical Range | $40-80 |
Filing fees vary by county and claim amount. Service fees additional.
Serving the Defendant
Service must be completed at least 10 days before the trial date.
Allowed Service Methods:
- Personal service by sheriff or constable
- Certified mail with return receipt
- Process server
Important: You must serve the defendant at least 10 days before the hearing date.
What to Expect at Your Hearing
After filing, you'll typically wait 30-60 days for your hearing date.
Attorneys Allowed: Attorneys are permitted in South Carolina Magistrate Court but most parties represent themselves.
Appeals
Either party may appeal to Circuit Court within 30 days.
South Carolina Statute of Limitations
You must file your lawsuit within these time limits from when the dispute occurred:
| Type of Claim | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Written Contract | years |
| Oral Contract | years |
| Property Damage | years |
| Personal Injury | years |
Do I Need a Demand Letter Before Filing?
Sending a demand letter is recommended to demonstrate good faith effort at resolution.
Create Your Free Demand Letter
Before going to court, try sending a demand letter. It's free, takes 5 minutes, and often resolves disputes without filing.
Create Free Demand LetterFrequently Asked Questions
What is the small claims court limit in South Carolina?
The South Carolina small claims court limit is $7,500 for all plaintiffs, handled by Magistrate Court.
What is small claims court called in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, small claims cases are heard in Magistrate Court.
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, you have 3 years to file a lawsuit for breach of written or oral contract.
How do I appeal a South Carolina small claims judgment?
Either party may appeal to Circuit Court within 30 days of the judgment.
More Resources: All State Guides | Demand Letter Templates | Statute of Limitations Lookup