What to Know About The Curry Law Firm's Divorce and Family Law Practice
The Curry Law Firm handles divorce, custody, and family law matters across South Carolina
The Curry Law Firm is a South Carolina-based legal practice focused on family law cases, including divorce, child custody, child support, and related matters. The firm operates as a private law office where you would hire an attorney to represent you in family court proceedings or to negotiate settlements outside court.
This is different from legal aid or court-appointed counsel—you pay for representation directly. Understanding what a family law firm does, how they charge, and what to expect during the process helps you decide whether to contact them and what questions to ask when you do.
Key Takeaways
- The Curry Law Firm is a private law office; you hire and pay them directly to represent you in divorce, custody, and other family law cases.
- Family law attorneys typically charge hourly rates or flat fees, and costs vary depending on case complexity and how much negotiation or court time is needed.
- Before contacting any law firm, gather documents like your marriage certificate, financial records, and any custody agreements already in place.
- Many family law firms offer initial consultations where you can discuss your situation and ask about their fees and experience with cases like yours.
- If cost is a barrier, South Carolina has legal aid organizations and court-appointed attorney programs for people who cannot afford private counsel.
What a family law firm does and does not do
A private law firm like The Curry Law Firm represents you in legal matters—they do not make decisions for you, and they do not work for the court. Your attorney advises you on your options, handles paperwork, communicates with the other party's lawyer, and represents you in court if your case goes to trial. They work for you and are paid by you.
This is separate from the court system itself. Judges make final decisions about custody, support, and property division. Court clerks process paperwork. Legal aid attorneys represent people who cannot afford private counsel. A private family law firm does none of those things—they are hired by one party to advocate for that party's interests.
How family law attorneys charge for their work
Family law firms typically use one of two billing methods: hourly rates or flat fees. Hourly rates mean you pay for every hour (or fraction of an hour) the attorney spends on your case—research, phone calls, court appearances, and document preparation all count. Flat fees mean you pay a set amount for a specific service, such as an uncontested divorce where both parties agree on all terms.
Costs vary widely depending on your location within South Carolina, the attorney's experience level, and how complicated your case is. A straightforward uncontested divorce typically costs less than a contested custody battle that requires multiple court hearings. Before you hire any firm, ask about their fee structure, what is included, and what costs might arise later (such as court filing fees or expert witness fees, which are separate from attorney fees).
What to prepare before contacting a family law firm
When you call or meet with an attorney, having key documents ready helps the conversation move faster and gives the lawyer a clearer picture of your situation. Gather your marriage certificate, any existing custody orders or child support agreements, recent tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and a list of major assets (home, vehicles, retirement accounts). If children are involved, write down their names, ages, and current custody arrangements.
Write a brief timeline of events leading to your decision to seek legal help—when you separated, when major disagreements arose, and any incidents relevant to custody or safety. This does not need to be polished; attorneys are used to hearing people's stories in their own words. The more organized you are, the more efficiently the attorney can assess your case and explain your options.
Understanding the divorce and custody process in South Carolina
South Carolina requires a one-year separation before an uncontested divorce can be finalized, unless both parties agree to waive it. If you and your spouse agree on all terms—property division, custody, support—the process is faster and cheaper. If you disagree, the case goes to family court, where a judge decides contested issues.
Custody cases follow their own timeline and rules. South Carolina courts prioritize the best interests of the child, considering factors like each parent's relationship with the child, stability, and the child's own preferences (depending on age). Child support is calculated using state guidelines based on both parents' income. An attorney explains how these rules apply to your specific situation and what outcomes are realistic given the facts of your case.
Initial consultations and next steps
Many family law firms offer an initial consultation—sometimes free, sometimes for a fee. During this meeting, you describe your situation, the attorney explains how the law applies, and you learn about their fees and process. This is your chance to ask whether they have handled cases similar to yours and how long they expect your case to take.
If you decide to hire the firm, you will sign a retainer agreement that outlines the fee structure, what services are included, and your responsibilities. You may be asked to pay a retainer—an upfront deposit that the attorney draws from as they work on your case. Ask what happens if the retainer runs out and how you will be billed going forward.
If you cannot afford a private attorney
South Carolina has legal aid organizations that represent people in family law cases when they cannot afford private counsel. Legal Aid of the Lowcountry, Piedmont Legal Services, and other regional programs serve different parts of the state. You can search for the program in your county through the South Carolina Bar's website or by calling 211, a statewide helpline that connects people to local resources.
If you are involved in a court case and cannot afford an attorney, you can also ask the judge to appoint one. The process and availability vary by county and type of case. Bring proof of your income and expenses to court to request a court-appointed attorney. This is separate from hiring a private firm, but it is an option if cost is a barrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a family law attorney in South Carolina?
Costs vary widely. An uncontested divorce with a flat fee might range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars. Contested cases billed hourly can cost significantly more depending on how many court hearings are needed. Always ask the firm for an estimate based on your specific situation before you hire them.
What is the difference between a retainer and a final bill?
A retainer is money you pay upfront that the attorney draws from as they work. A final bill is what you owe after the retainer is used up. Ask the firm whether unused retainer money is refunded and how they will notify you if the retainer is running low.
Do I need an attorney for an uncontested divorce?
No, but many people hire one anyway because the paperwork is complex and mistakes can be costly. Some people use online document services or work with a mediator instead. An attorney can review any agreement you reach with your spouse to make sure your rights are protected.
How long does a divorce take in South Carolina?
An uncontested divorce takes at least one year from the date of separation. A contested divorce can take longer depending on how many issues are disputed and how busy the court is. Your attorney can give you a more specific timeline once they understand your case.
What if I cannot afford to pay for an attorney right now?
Contact your county's legal aid program or call 211 to learn about free or low-cost legal help. You can also ask the court to appoint an attorney if you are already involved in a case. Some attorneys also offer payment plans, though this varies by firm.