How do I respond to a divorce petition?

If you have been served with a divorce petition in South Carolina, it is important to respond to it. A divorce petition initiates a legal proceeding, so you should make sure you take it seriously. The first step you should take when responding to a divorce petition is to read it carefully and understand all of its details. Once you have done this, you have two options regarding how to respond. You can either file a counterclaim (also known as a counter-petition) or file an answer. Filing a counterclaim means you are asking the court to grant you the same relief that is being sought in the divorce petition. This is often the most desirable option since it provides the most control over the outcome of the divorce. On the other hand, if you file an answer, you acknowledge that the divorce petition is accurate and you do not want to seek any additional relief. In either case, you must file your response with the court by the deadline set out in the petition. If you do not respond in time, you may waver any rights you have to participate in the proceedings and the divorce may be decided without your input. Therefore, it is important to take a divorce petition seriously and respond accordingly. If you need help understanding your rights and the process, it is best to consult with a family lawyer.

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