South Carolina Limited Dating Violence Protections
State law restricts domestic violence protections to spouses and cohabitants, leaving dating partners with fewer legal options.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Sex Crimes
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Should state laws provide equal domestic violence protections to dating partners and married couples?
South Carolina remains one of four states that excludes dating partners from obtaining orders of protection. Dating partners currently must rely on restraining orders, which lack the immediate enforcement capabilities of standard domestic violence protections.
Why it matters
Prosecutors highlight that dating partners face significant risks of harassment and violence similar to those within households. Expanding these protections is a focus for officials who note that current laws may not adequately address the risks in modern dating relationships.
South Carolina allows orders of protection only for married, cohabitating, or parent partners. Dating partners are excluded from these orders and must seek restraining orders, a process that can be more time-consuming to complete.
The players
Cindy Crick
She serves as the solicitor for the 13th Circuit and oversees legal proceedings in the region.
The details
Under existing law, orders of protection provide for an immediate arrest if a violation occurs. Because dating partners are excluded, they cannot access these expedited legal protections, despite data showing that nearly 45% of intimate partner murders involve boyfriends and girlfriends.
Timeline
Cindy Crick became the 13th Circuit solicitor in 2025.
Legal Context
South Carolina is one of four states that does not extend domestic violence protections to dating partners. This gap in state law forces individuals in dating relationships to navigate different legal channels that offer fewer immediate protections compared to those available to spouses.
Residents currently in dating relationships may find limited legal recourse in cases of harassment or violence compared to married individuals. Advocates continue to push for legislative changes that would grant these partners the same level of safety and immediate protection as other household members.
The takeaway
Current state law creates a significant hurdle for those seeking safety from abusive dating partners. Understanding the distinction between a standard order of protection and a restraining order is essential for those evaluating their legal options in South Carolina.
Further reading
Learn more about local statutes at South Carolina Sex Crimes.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Foxcarolina.
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Should state laws provide equal domestic violence protections to dating partners and married couples?
