Posted by DivorceLine in South Carolina Child Custody Laws
In any action for divorce from the bonds of matrimony the court may at any stage of the cause, or from time to time after final judgment, make such orders touching the care, custody and maintenance of the children of the marriage and what, if any, security shall be given for the same as from the circumstances of the parties and the nature of the case and the best spiritual as well as other interests of the children may be fit, equitable and just.
In determining the best interests of the child, the court must consider the child’s reasonable preference for custody. The court shall place weight upon the preference based upon the child’s age, experience, maturity, judgment, and ability to express a preference. Consideration is also given to the religious faith of the child, and the evidence of physical or sexual abuse.
[Based on South Carolina Code of Laws Section 20-3-160 and 20-7-1515 through 20-7-1530]
