When family matters are in dispute, the consequences reach far beyond the courtroom. Decisions about your children, your home, your financial future — these are not abstract legal questions. They are the circumstances of your daily life.
David Collins has spent the majority of his legal career — more than 25 years — in South Carolina’s family courts. He has handled virtually every type of family law case, from straightforward uncontested divorces to complex, high-conflict custody disputes requiring forensic accountants, guardian ad litems, and multi-day trials. He knows the courts, he knows the judges, and he knows what it takes to protect the people he represents.
Call today to schedule a consultation: (864) 990-3061 — Greenville or (864) 707-2600 — Spartanburg
Family law consultations: $500 for one hour. Criminal defense and personal injury consultations are free.
Divorce
South Carolina law provides for both fault and no-fault divorce. The right approach depends on the facts of your situation, what property and financial issues are at stake, and whether children are involved.
David Collins has represented both plaintiffs and defendants in contested and uncontested divorce cases across upstate South Carolina. Whether you are facing a straightforward separation or a difficult, contested proceeding, you deserve counsel who understands the legal landscape and can advise you clearly on your options.
Common divorce issues we handle:
- Grounds for divorce (no-fault separation, adultery, physical cruelty, habitual drunkenness, desertion)
- Temporary orders for support and use of the marital home during the proceedings
- Equitable distribution of marital property and debt
- Final settlement agreements
Child Custody and Visitation
Child custody decisions are among the most difficult and consequential a family court will make. South Carolina courts base custody determinations on the best interests of the child, considering a wide range of factors including each parent’s relationship with the child, stability, and the child’s own preferences as they get older.
Whether you are seeking primary custody, joint custody, or a modification of an existing order, it is essential to have an attorney who understands what courts are looking for and how to present your case effectively.
We handle:
- Legal custody and physical custody determinations
- Visitation and parenting time schedules
- Relocation disputes
- Modifications of existing custody orders based on changed circumstances
- Allegations of abuse, neglect and parental alienation
Child Support
South Carolina uses guidelines to calculate child support, but the calculation involves income, expenses, custody arrangements, and other factors that can significantly affect the result. Errors in child support calculations are common — and they cost families real money every month.
David Collins ensures that child support is calculated correctly, that all relevant income and expenses are accounted for, and that his clients understand exactly what they are agreeing to or being ordered to pay.
We handle:
- Initial child support calculations in divorce and custody proceedings
- Child support modifications when circumstances change
- Enforcement of existing child support orders
Alimony and Spousal Support
South Carolina courts have broad discretion in awarding alimony. The type, amount, and duration of alimony depend on the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, standard of living, fault, and other factors. These determinations can have significant long-term financial consequences.
Types of alimony in South Carolina:
- Periodic alimony
- Lump-sum alimony
- Rehabilitative alimony
- Reimbursement alimony
Equitable Division of Marital Property
South Carolina is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly — but not necessarily equally. The distinction between marital and non-marital property, the valuation of assets, and the treatment of debts are all areas where experienced legal counsel makes a measurable difference.
Property division issues we handle:
- Identification and valuation of marital assets (real estate, retirement accounts, business interests)
- Business valuation and Division
- Separate property and commingling issues
- Division of marital debt
- Negotiation of comprehensive property settlement agreements
Protective Orders
If you or your children are in danger, South Carolina provides immediate legal remedies. Emergency Protective Orders and Orders of Protection can be obtained quickly through family court and provide enforceable legal protection.
If you have been served with a protective order, you also have the right to respond and be heard. David Collins represents both petitioners seeking protection and respondents defending against orders.
Modifications of Existing Orders
Life changes. Custody arrangements, child support obligations, and visitation schedules that made sense at the time of your divorce may no longer fit your circumstances. South Carolina law allows modification of family court orders when there has been a substantial change in circumstances.
Common modification situations:
- Significant change in income affecting child support
- Relocation of a parent
- Changes in the child’s needs or the parents’ work schedules
- Concerns about a child’s welfare with the current custodial arrangement
Ready to Talk?
You do not have to navigate South Carolina’s family courts alone. Whether your situation is straightforward or complex, David Collins can help you understand your options, protect your rights, and move forward.
Call today: (864) 990-3061 — Greenville · (864) 707-2600 — Spartanburg