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SC County Guide

Richland County Small Claims Court

Magistrate Court • Population: 416,147

$7,500
Maximum Claim
$40 - $80
Filing Fees
30-60 days
Timeline
In-person
Hearing Format

Courthouse Information

Courthouse

Richland County Magistrate Court

Address

1701 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

Court Website

https://www.sccourts.org

Local Tips

  • Magistrate Court handles small claims in South Carolina
  • Small claims limit is $7,500
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

How to File in Richland County

1

Determine if your case qualifies for South Carolina small claims court (up to $7,500)

2

Send a written demand letter to the other party

3

File your claim at the Richland County courthouse or online through the Magistrate Court

4

Serve the defendant with official notice of the lawsuit

5

Prepare your evidence, documents, and witnesses

6

Attend the in-person hearing and present your case

Statute of Limitations in South Carolina

3 years
Written Contracts
3 years
Oral Contracts
3 years
Property Damage

Important Rules in South Carolina

Magistrates hear cases
Simplified procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

To file a small claims case in Richland County, South Carolina, visit your local courthouse at 1701 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201 or the Magistrate Court website. You'll need to fill out the claim form, pay the filing fee ($40 - $80), and serve the defendant. The maximum claim amount is $7,500.

The maximum you can sue for in South Carolina small claims court is $7,500. This limit applies to all counties including Richland County.

In South Carolina, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in small claims court. While you can represent yourself in Richland County, you may choose to hire a lawyer for your case.

From filing to hearing, a small claims case in South Carolina typically takes 30-60 days. Timelines in Richland County may vary depending on court schedules.

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