843-936-6680
If there were one universal truth it would be that every family is different. We all have our own set of challenges to face and changes to go through. Sometimes those changes are happy like when a new baby is born. Other times these changes involve uncertainty and loss like in the event of a divorce.
If you are having to go through the pain of divorce deal with a complicated custody issue or are handling a different family-related legal matter you might need help. At Cobb Hammett LLC we understand that family issues are hard. Many of the family law clients that we work for have big questions about the future leaving them over-stressed and full of worry. They are concerned about their children their marriage or both. They are wrestling with uncertainty and anxiety having been served confusing documents that don't make sense. Sound familiar? A family law attorney in Columbia, SC can help whether you need a level-headed moderator or a trusted advocate in the courtroom.
At Cobb Hammett LLC we have decades of combined experience serving the needs of families from divorce proceedings to family formation issues. Our team is fiercely committed to our clients and with a dedicated focus stays up-to-date on the nuanced world of family law in Columbia. If you're looking for personal attention unbiased representation and a responsive family law attorney look no further than our law firm.
If you're unsure of whether you need a family law lawyers in Columbia" ask yourself these questions:
- Are you getting married?
- Are you thinking about divorce?
- Has your spouse served you with legal papers?
- Are your kids not receiving the support that they are entitled to?
If you answered yes to any of the questions above know that we are here to help you figure out your next steps. With Cobb Hammett Law Firm by your side you can have the confidence to face even the most difficult family law issues. All of our attorneys have years of experience are incredibly responsive and fight for your family's rights. We are happy to take as much time as you need to answer questions and help put your mind at ease for whatever lies ahead.
Our firm specializes in a wide range of family law cases including:
- Divorce
- Child Custody
- Alimony
- Adoptions
- Child Support
- Mediation
- Property Division
- More
If you have been left to manage a foreign family law situation it's time to call Cobb Hammett LLC. We will sit down with you for an hour at absolutely no cost - because we understand what you're going through and know that you need answers not another bill to pay.
To help provide you with a basic understanding of family law keep reading for in-depth explanations on our areas of expertise.
Divorce lawyer in
Columbia SC.
At Cobb Hammett LLC we know all-too-well that a one size fits all approach isn't going to work very well for your unique situation. That's why we approach each divorce case from a personalized standpoint - something that we feel like each of our clients deserves.
Our goal is to help solve your family law issues and focus on your needs when your divorce is finalized. We will help develop a strategy for:
- Meeting your post-divorce needs and objectives
- Dividing marital property for maximum benefit
- Maximizing time spent with your child as part of your divorce's parenting plan
- Strengthen your role as a decision-maker for your child
- Navigating your divorce proceedings and minimizing financial and emotional costs
By working together our divorce law firm will help you rebuild your life and secure a better future for your family.
Divorces in South Carolina
- Different Than Other States
Unlike divorce law in other states South Carolina divorce law doesn't allow spouses to receive an instant no-fault divorce. One or both spouses in the marriage must establish a legally acceptable reason for a divorce to happen. Grounds for a divorce in Columbia, SC include:
- Desertion
- Physical Cruelty
- Habitual Drunkenness
- Separation for One Year or More
- Adultery
If you or your spouse do not have the necessary grounds for divorce in Columbia our family law firm can file a Separate Maintenance and Support action. This step lets the court order child custody alimony and marital bills until you can file for your divorce. During this period Cobb Hammett LLC gathers pertinent info on your spouse's character and assets that can strengthen your case should it be necessary.
Common Issues Associated
with Divorces in Columbia
A divorce in Columbia means more than the end of a marriage. It involves dividing the parties debts and assets determines child support and custody parameters and can establish alimony. At Cobb Hammett LLC many of our clients are able to reach agreements with their spouse to resolve these issues. Reaching an agreement lets both parties customize the terms of their divorce to conserve resources avoid trial and meet the family's needs.
Sometimes however two spouses cannot or will not come to terms with an agreement. In these situations a trial is possible and litigation is necessary. Our family law attorneys in Columbia, SC. are highly experienced litigators and are well-equipped to handle any disputes revealed in the conference or courtroom.
Common divorce issues include:
Child Custody and Visitation
One of the most heart-wrenching difficult decisions for parents going through a divorce is resolving child custody and visitation issues. Child custody refers to how much time each parent will spend with their child and whether they can make decisions for them. According to South Carolina law child custody and visitation time are based on what is best for the child.
Child Support
Like other U.S states a formula is used in South Carolina to determine how much child support a person must pay. This formula recommends the amount of child support based on factors like how much income the parents make the cost of childcare and the obligation to support children from other relationships.
Alimony
In South Carolina there is no formula to determine how much alimony a person must pay. However courts consider several factors when deciding if alimony is needed how much alimony should be paid and how long a spouse must pay it. Those factors include each spouse's ability and need to pay alimony how long the marriage lasted and any marital misconduct that occurred. To make matters more confusing there are different alimony types including lump sum rehabilitative and reimbursement.
Distribution of Property
In South Carolina marital property is the property that each spouse amasses from the date of the wedding to the time a spouse files for divorce. That property can often include marital debt. In a South Carolina divorce the courts will order an equitable division of property meaning fair under all circumstances but not necessarily equal.
Understanding Child Custody in Columbia, SC.
As mentioned above decisions that involve child custody and visitation can be contentious for parents both emotionally and legally. As experienced empathetic divorce lawyers we understand how difficult this process can be. When we work with clients going through child custody battles we always make it a point to be with them through the ups and downs to help them stay centered. Whether you are the husband or wife in your divorce we share a common goal: finding an effective way to support your children and assure their wellbeing.
In South Carolina child custody is a loaded term. In the most general definition child custody determines when each parent is responsible for the physical care of the child and how much authority each parent has to make decisions in their child's life.
No two child custody cases are the same but a negotiated custody arrangement is usually preferred in the judge's eyes as each parent has input in the process. If the parents cannot come to an amicable resolution their fate is left in the hands of a Family Court Judge in South Carolina. The focus of child custody law is always on what is in the best interests of the child. What the judge determines to be the best interests changes depending on the judge.
There are different variations of custody in South Carolina (or custody arrangements) each with varying degrees of authority. When you consult with our family law attorneys at Cobb Hammett LLC we will go over the child custody process in detail and touch on each distinction to eliminate any confusion you have.
- Help develop cooperative solutions to disputes or mediate when needed
- Create an equitable parenting plan
- Discuss the implications of the different forms of joint and sole custody
- Problems related to child support
- Modify court orders if you or your child's circumstances change
- Enforcement of visitation and custody agreements
- Much more
Many of the family law clients that walk into our office have big questions that are leaving them full of stress and worry.
Understanding Child Support
in Columbia, SC.
When children are involved in divorce cases child support is often ordered. Several factors can impact whether child support is ordered like the income-earning potential of the child's parents any custody arrangements that are created and what needs the child may have.
At Cobb Hammett LLC we have years of experience with child support issues relating to:
- Cases where child support is needed for stay-at-home parents
- Modifications and enforcement of child support mandates
- Resolving support and custody disputes
- Mediation arrangements to reach an agreement on child support. Compared to litigation going
- the mediated route often means less stress and is more cost-effective than trial.
When you trust our family law firm in Columbia for representation we can help calculate an estimate of how much child support you or your spouse may be ordered to pay. We can also perform a needs-based analysis in cases that involve large amounts of income. At the end of the day our goal is to make this frustrating process as stress-free as possible for you so that you can focus on living life and caring for your child.
Understanding Alimony in
Columbia, SC.
Alimony (sometimes called spousal support or maintenance) is ordered by the court or negotiated between parties. This kind of spousal support has many factors like the income of both spouses how long they were married and the age of each spouse. Like child custody and child support trusted legal guidance is strongly recommended if you are facing potential alimony payments. Our family law attorneys will help you reach amicable arrangements for fair and appropriate alimony payments.
At Cobb Hammett LLC your family law attorney in Columbia, SC will help protect your interests and rights regarding:
- Alimony and business assets
- Permanent or long-term alimony
- Significant alimony in high-asset divorces
- Modifications to alimony arrangements when you or your spouse's circumstances change
- Enforcement of spousal support mandates when needed
Understanding Division of
Property in Columbia, SC.
When there are no children marital property or issues of alimony divorces often proceed smoothly between amicable spouses. However most divorces in South Carolina are much more complex. Typically divorce involves a union between spouses that lasts for years and involves substantial marital property. This property can be personal property real estate family businesses debts out-of-state property debts bank accounts and more.
In these nuanced situations the applicable parties need assistance dividing their property. This help most often comes from seasoned family law attorneys like Cobb Hammett LLC.
When it comes to distribution of property certain types of properties that are controversial even under the property division rules in South Carolina. South Carolina is an equitable distribution state meaning that marital property is divided equitably but not always equally.
If you are going through a divorce it's important that you are aware of the following assets and the common issues their division presents:
Pensions:
Generally pensions are the second-largest asset in a marriage. When there are sufficient alternative income sources to compensate the non-pension holder South Carolina divorce courts may leave the pension rights with the spouse who earned it with future distribution available. Otherwise a divorce court may enter a Qualified Domestic Relations Order requiring the pension administrator to pay both the former spouse and worker.
Family Home:
The family home or the primary residential property owned by the divorcing couple is usually considered a marriage's biggest asset. Dividing this kind of property can be complex and frustrating especially when there are kids involved.
Many divorcing couples have a hard time reaching an agreement on property division. Because the division of property depends on the complexity of you or your spouse's assets and liabilities it is crucial to consult with an experienced family law attorney to provide guidance.
Latest News in Columbia, SC
10 tips for students living in Columbia, SC
Samantha Robertsonhttps://colatoday.6amcity.com/10-tips-for-freshman-living-in-columbia-sc
Classes for college students are soon to be underway, and we know a few new Soda Citizens will be walking around. Being new in town can be a little disorienting, but that’s where we come in. Here are 10 things you should know as a new resident.1. We hope you brought walking shoes. USC is 444 acres spread a...
Classes for college students are soon to be underway, and we know a few new Soda Citizens will be walking around. Being new in town can be a little disorienting, but that’s where we come in. Here are 10 things you should know as a new resident.
1. We hope you brought walking shoes. USC is 444 acres spread across Columbia + you’ll get your daily steps in. Here’s a map of campus so you don’t get lost.
2. One of the best things about being a USC student is rooting for the Gamecocks. Be up-to-date with the latest sports happenings + get excited about football season.
3. Join one of 500+ campus clubs to make new friends, branch out, and find something you enjoy.
4. Columbia is known for its beautiful rivers + we recommend walking by a few of them:
5. Many local fitness centers, studios, and gyms offer student discounts. Check out our gyms around Columbia guide + Yoga guide.
6. We’ve got you covered for late-night bites + you may find less money on your card than usual. If you do, check out our $10 lunch guide.
8. Familiarize yourself with our main districts and cities — this will help you as you navigate around town.
9. If you want to avoid parking you can call a rideshare service like Kola Kruze, or catch the COMET. Pro tip: USC students + faculty ride for free.
10. There are two things you should know about our trains. One, if you haven’t been caught by one yet, you will. Two, you might want to invest in some earplugs for nighttime. Trust us.
Bonus tips: Subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know + don’t forget to call your mom once in a while.
Is Columbia, SC, a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Calling Columbia Your Home
Holly Hooperhttps://www.redfin.com/blog/is-columbia-south-carolina-a-good-place-to-live/
Reading Time: 6 minutesNestled in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. As the state capital, it’s a bustling city that’s home to several colleges and universities, making it a vibrant and diverse community. But, like any place, there are pros and cons to living in Columbia. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking into...
Reading Time: 6 minutes
Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. As the state capital, it’s a bustling city that’s home to several colleges and universities, making it a vibrant and diverse community. But, like any place, there are pros and cons to living in Columbia. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking into the Columbia housing market, this city has a whole heap of perks that more than make up for any downsides.
In this Redfin article, we’ll weigh the advantages against the disadvantages to calling South Carolina’s capital your new home.
Interested in moving to Columbia? Check out: Homes for sale in Columbia, SC | Apartments for rent in Columbia, SC | Houses for rent in Columbia, SC
| Median home sale price | $255,000 |
| Average monthly rent | $1,196 |
| Walk Score | 35/100 |
| Bike Score | 35/100 |
1. Pro: Affordability
Columbia, South Carolina stands out as an affordable city to reside in. First, the cost of living in Columbia is 8% lower than the national average, providing residents with a favorable financial situation. Additionally, the median sale price in Columbia is $255,000, significantly below the national median of $442,451. Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Columbia or buy a home, you’ll find that doing so in this city is relatively affordable compared to the rest of the country. Furthermore, Columbia’s cost of living is 7% lower than both Charleston, SC, highlighting the city’s overall affordability in comparison to its neighboring regions.
Compare the costs of renting vs buying and find a lender to secure your mortgage. Use calculator Get pre-approved 2. Con: Humidity
While the mild climate in Columbia is generally a plus, there is one major downside: the sticky, humid summers. For some folks, the humidity is no big deal, and they can handle a little bit of sweat and frizzy hair. But for others, the humidity can be downright unbearable, turning a leisurely stroll through the park into a sauna-like experience. Locals have all sorts of tips and tricks for surviving the summer months, from carrying a personal fan to avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. And let’s not forget about the dreaded “humidity hair” – that puffy, frizzy look that seems to defy all attempts at taming. So, if you’re planning to make Columbia your home, just be prepared for a little extra moisture in the air and maybe invest in a good leave-in conditioner.
3. Pro: Southern charm
Columbia is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, which is a significant draw for many residents. The city has a strong sense of community, with residents taking pride in their hometown and working together to make it a great place to live. An excellent example of this is the Soda City Market, which takes place every Saturday morning in downtown Columbia. It’s a farmers market, craft fair, and community gathering all in one, where locals come together to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts, and to catch up with their neighbors. The market is a great way to experience Columbia’s Southern charm firsthand, and it’s a beloved local tradition.
4. Con: Mosquitos
Before you move to Columbia just know you’ll be in a constant battle with the state bird: the mosquito. While these pesky insects are not unique to Columbia, they do seem to have a particular affinity for the area’s warm and humid climate. As a result, locals have become experts at mosquito avoidance techniques, from slathering on bug spray to strategically positioning citronella candles around their yards. If there is any relief, mosquitos there tend to come swarming in seasons, so no worries because it won’t last forever. Be prepared to make friends with some itchy bumps and invest in plenty of insect repellent.
5. Pro: Mild climate
Columbia’s climate is another advantage for those looking to live in a comfortable year-round environment. The city has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and cool winters. However, the temperatures rarely reach extreme levels, with the hottest month, July, averaging a high of around 92 degrees Fahrenheit and the coldest month, January, averaging a low of around 36 degrees Fahrenheit. This mild climate allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year, from hiking and biking in the spring and fall to boating and swimming in the summer.
6. Con: Limited nightlife
While there are certainly bars and clubs in the area, the scene may not be as extensive or diverse. Some visitors or new residents may find that the options for after-hours entertainment can feel limited, especially if they are used to a more vibrant nightlife. Part of the reason for this may be the size of the city.
That being said, Columbia still has plenty to offer for those looking to enjoy a night out on the town. The city has a number of popular bars and nightclubs, and there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes that stay open late, as well as outdoor parks and venues that host events and concerts throughout the year. While it may not offer the same level of nightlife options as some larger cities, Columbia can still be a fun and enjoyable place to spend an evening with friends or loved ones.
7. Pro: Rich history
Columbia has a rich and fascinating history, with many landmarks and sites to explore. The South Carolina State House is a magnificent building that has been the seat of the state government since 1786. It’s open to the public for tours, and visitors can see historic documents, paintings, and sculptures. The Columbia Museum of Art is another great example of the city’s history, with a collection that spans centuries of European and American art, as well as modern and contemporary works. Finally, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural history of the area, featuring over 2,000 animals from around the world, including rare and endangered species.
8. Con: Limited transportation
Columbia’s transportation options can be a challenge for those without access to a car, with a Walk Score of 35 out of 100, a Transit Score of 0 out of 100, and a Bike Score of 35 out of 100. While the city does have some public transportation options, such as buses and shuttles, the system may not be as comprehensive or efficient as in other cities, making it difficult for those who rely on public transportation to get around the city. Additionally, Finding parking in certain parts of Columbia can be challenging because the infrastructure may not be as developed or extensive as in other areas.
9. Pro: Great food
Columbia is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, which is a highlight for foodies and casual diners alike. Barbecue is a particular specialty, with local spots like Southern Belly BBQ and Doc’s Barbecue serving up mouth-watering pulled pork and brisket. Seafood is another popular option, with restaurants like Blue Marlin and Pearlz Oyster Bar offering fresh and flavorful dishes. For something sweet, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles is a local favorite, with its famous chicken and waffles combo and delicious sweet potato pie. Overall, there’s no shortage of fantastic dining options in Columbia, and residents can easily explore a variety of cuisines and styles.
House hunting made easy
See new home listings on the Redfin app every 5 minutes that match your saved searches.
10. Con: Hurricane seasons
One potential drawback to living in Columbia is the risk of hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November. While Columbia is not located directly on the coast, it’s still vulnerable to the effects of hurricanes, such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and power outages. In the past, the city has experienced damage from hurricanes and tropical storms, such as Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and Tropical Storm Michael in 2018. While residents can take precautions to prepare for a hurricane, the risk of property damage and potential evacuation can be a concern for some.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.
If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.
Holly is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about home improvement and lifestyle. Her dream home would incorporate both an industrial and biophilic design.
Best Internet Providers in Columbia, South Carolina
CNEThttps://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-columbia-sc/
What's the best internet provider in Columbia?This famously hot Soda City -- endearingly nicknamed "Cola" -- is South Carolina’s capital. Pondering these two unrelated facts brings up two questions for those of us who'd rather stay safely indoors to beat the heat, watching Netflix with a fizzy beverage in hand: Do the int...
What's the best internet provider in Columbia?
This famously hot Soda City -- endearingly nicknamed "Cola" -- is South Carolina’s capital. Pondering these two unrelated facts brings up two questions for those of us who'd rather stay safely indoors to beat the heat, watching Netflix with a fizzy beverage in hand: Do the internet speeds in Columbia pop? Are there options to consider for the best internet service provider in the city?
Good news for residents of the former home of the world's largest fire hydrant: Median download speeds in Columbia exceed 200 megabits per second, according to Ookla data. To answer the second question, fiber internet from AT&T is available in Soda City and that makes AT&T Fiber our choice for the best internet service provider in Columbia.
While we recommend AT&T Fiber, its expected speeds are on par with Spectrum’s, its largest competitor within Columbia, according to Ookla. Other than these two major ISPs, some Soda City citizens can connect with Verizon and T-Mobile’s 5G home internet. If you're looking for the speediest plan in the city, AT&T Fiber's multigig plans top out at 5,000Mbps. On the other hand, there are a few affordable options in the area, but the cheapest internet belongs to Spectrum's $40-per-month plan for 300Mbps.
Best internet in Soda City
Source: CNET analysis of provider data
Other available internet providers in Columbia
Most of the city will have access to AT&T’s fiber internet (or EarthLink's piggybacked option) or cable internet through Spectrum. In contrast, some neighborhoods have access to T-Mobile or Verizon's 5G options, as well as regional carriers ispMint and EIN. Here are the other options in the city not listed above.
Cheap internet options in Columbia
You can expect to spend around $51 per month to connect to the internet in Columbia. If you want more speed, there are many options. That's good news for people who want to beat the city's famous heat by staying indoors.
The cheapest internet belongs to Spectrum's $40-per-month plan for download speeds of 300Mbps. However, for those looking for cheap internet options in Columbia, there aren't many. Most plans start around $50 per month. However, eligible mobile customers with Verizon and T-Mobile can receive discounted rates.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data
How to find internet deals and promotions in Columbia
The best internet deals and top promotions in Columbia depend on what discounts are available during a given time. Most deals are short-lived, but we look frequently for the latest offers.
Columbia internet providers, such as Spectrum and Verizon, may offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons for a limited time. Others, however, including AT&T and T-Mobile run the same standard pricing year-round.
For a more extensive list of promos, check out our guide on the best internet deals.
How fast is Columbia broadband?
According to the latest Ookla speed test data, Columbia residents have access to a comfortable fixed median download speed of 230Mbps. Gig-plus options are available from AT&T, Spectrum and local ISP CarolinaConnect Cooperative. AT&T Fiber has the fastest hookup, featuring 5,000Mbps in download and upload speeds.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data
What's a good internet speed?
Most internet connection plans can now handle basic productivity and communication tasks. If you're looking for an internet plan that can accommodate videoconferencing, streaming video or gaming, you'll have a better experience with a more robust connection. Here's an overview of the recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, according to the FCC. Note that these are only guidelines -- and that internet speed, service and performance vary by connection type, provider and address.
For more information, refer to our guide on how much internet speed you really need.
How CNET chose the best internet providers in Columbia
Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it's impractical to personally test every ISP in a given city. So what’s our approach? We start by researching the pricing, availability and speed information drawing on our own historical ISP data, the provider sites and mapping information from the Federal Communications Commission at FCC.gov.
But it doesn’t end there. We go to the FCC's website to check our data and ensure we're considering every ISP that provides service in an area. We also input local addresses on provider websites to find specific options for residents. To evaluate how happy customers are with an ISP's service, we look at sources including the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power. ISP plans and prices are subject to frequent changes; all information provided is accurate as of the time of publication.
Once we have this localized information, we ask three main questions:
While the answers to those questions are often layered and complex, the providers that come closest to "yes" on all three are the ones we recommend.
To explore our process in more depth, visit our How We Test ISPs page.
What's the final word on internet providers in Columbia?
Most Columbia residents will be well served by Spectrum's cable connection which is widely available in the city. Some Cola residents have access to 5G home internet from T-Mobile or Verizon -- each makes for a good option for existing customers of their wireless services due to the deep monthly discounts they offer. AT&T Fiber's coverage is limited in the city, but if your address is serviceable, I would put it at the top of your list.
Internet providers in Columbia FAQs
Disclaimer:
