Filing bankruptcy can help you achieve a fresh start, but the process is complicated. Use these resources to find the help you need.
When someone finds themselves in a situation where they are unable to repay their debts, they can seek relief by filing for bankruptcy. Once someone files a bankruptcy case, creditors typically must stop all collection efforts against a debtor, and some or all of a person’s debt may be forgiven. Bankruptcy cases are heard in federal court.
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Learn more about bankruptcy.
Deciding to file for bankruptcy is a huge decision that can help you achieve a fresh start, but will affect you for the rest of your life. Use these resources to learn more about the process, and decide if filing for bankruptcy is right for you.
Bankruptcy Basics - United States Court
Bankruptcy Information - US Bankruptcy Court for the District of South Carolina - includes FAQs, informational videos, and a glossary of bankruptcy terms
Legal Information on Bankruptcy - lawhelp.org/sc - links to information from the Bankruptcy Court, the ABA, and the South Carolina Bar Association
Because bankruptcy proceedings are so complicated, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney. Use the resources below to find someone who can help you.
Hire and pay a private attorney.
The South Carolina Bar offers a Lawyer Referral Service to members of the public at no charge. You may call 1-800-868-2284 for a referral from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. (If you’re in Richland or Lexington Counties, call 803-799-7100). An online referral service is also available 24/7.
The Lawyer Referral Service makes referrals by area of law, and where you’re located. Each participating lawyer agrees to charge no more than $50 for a 30-minute consultation. If the consultation lasts more than 30 minutes, or you hire the lawyer to represent you, the lawyer will charge their normal fee. These lawyers do not take cases pro bono.
Click below to be taken to the Lawyer Referral Service website.
Contact South Carolina Legal Services.
South Carolina Legal Services provides free civil legal services for low income residents of South Carolina. They do not take any criminal cases. If you would like to apply for their services, call the statewide Legal Services Intake Office toll free at 1-888-346-5592 (if you’re in the Columbia area, call 803-744-9430). You can call the intake office line from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Be prepared to answer questions about your income and the type of problem you need help with. Due to limited resources, South Carolina Legal Services is unable to accept everyone’s case. Intake staff may refer you to another agency for further assistance.
Please note that South Carolina Legal Services does not give legal advice over the phone.
Spanish-speaking applicants and hearing-impaired applicants who have TTY capability should also call the statewide telephone number at 1-888-346-5592. If your primary language is something other than English or Spanish, call the closest Legal Services office to set up an intake appointment.
Click below to visit the South Carolina Legal Services website.
Request a pro bono attorney.
There are a few different programs in South Carolina that offer pro bono services. If you meet income and asset eligibility, but South Carolina Legal Services is unable to assist you, ask them to make a referral to the South Carolina Bar Pro Bono Program.
The South Carolina Bar Pro Bono Program uses volunteer attorneys to help people with a variety of legal issues throughout the state. There are also regional pro bono providers.
Click on the links below to visit the websites for South Carolina’s pro bono providers.
Charleston Pro Bono Legal Services
What if I don’t qualify for pro bono or legal services, but I still can’t afford an attorney?
If you can’t afford to hire an attorney, but your income is too high to qualify for a lawyer from SC Legal Services or a pro bono program, there may still be someone who can help you. Charleston Legal Access is a non-profit law firm that charges clients on a sliding scale based on their income and family size.
