Divorce is hard — especially when children are involved. Custody and visitation disputes often become the most emotionally charged and legally complex part of any separation. Whether you're a parent seeking more time with your child, facing concerns about their safety, or navigating disagreements over support, the legal path forward can feel overwhelming.

At Jason Ward Law, LLC, we understand how personal and painful these issues can be. That’s why we focus on helping Greenville families find legal clarity, emotional reassurance, and long-term solutions that prioritize the well-being of their children.

Types of Child Custody in South Carolina

In South Carolina, custody is split into two categories: legal custody and physical custody.

• Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions about the child’s life, such as education, healthcare, and religion.
• Physical custody determines where the child lives on a day-to-day basis.

Both legal and physical custody can be joint (shared by both parents) or sole (held by one parent). Courts typically prefer joint legal custody unless one parent presents a risk to the child’s well-being.

How Visitation Is Handled

If one parent is granted sole physical custody, the other parent usually receives visitation rights, also referred to as parenting time. This can range from unsupervised weekend visits to structured or supervised arrangements, depending on the child’s safety and best interests.

It’s important to note that custody and visitation orders directly affect child support obligations. The more time one parent spends with the child, the more that can factor into the financial responsibilities of both parties.

What Courts Consider When Determining Custody

South Carolina courts always put the best interests of the child first. Key factors include:

• Each parent’s ability to provide a stable, safe home
• The emotional bond between parent and child
• Past involvement in the child’s care
• Any history of abuse, neglect, or substance use
• Willingness to co-parent and facilitate contact with the other parent

Even when emotions run high, judges favor parents who can prioritize their child’s needs and maintain respectful communication.

What to Do If You’re Facing a Custody Battle

Whether you're entering a contested custody dispute or modifying an existing arrangement, it’s critical to have a dedicated family law attorney by your side. At Jason Ward Law, LLC, we take time to understand your concerns, gather the necessary evidence, and present a strong case to the court.

We’ve helped countless parents in Greenville reach fair, workable custody agreements that protect their parental rights and their child’s emotional and physical health.

Let Us Help You Find Peace of Mind

No matter how complex or emotional your situation may be, you're not alone. At Jason Ward Law, we’re committed to supporting families through every stage of the custody process — from initial filings to modifications and enforcement.