A divorce decree is a legal document signed by the judge that officially terminates the marriage. The divorce decree typically includes the judge’s ruling on all matters related to the marriage and any minor children—including division of marital or community property, payment of marital or community debts, spousal support, child custody, child visitation, child support, any obligation to provide health insurance for minor children, and the payment of extracurricular expenses for minor children.

These determinations or rulings set forth in the divorce decree become legally enforceable obligations when the judge signs the divorce decree—and may be enforced by further legal action in the court if one or both of the former spouses fail to comply with the terms of the divorce decree.

In South Carolina, a divorce decree is the final order of a family court judge that legally ends a marriage. This document is binding and outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party post-divorce. It includes provisions for the division of marital property and debts, alimony (spousal support), and if applicable, matters concerning child custody, visitation rights, child support, health insurance for minor children, and payment for extracurricular activities. Once the judge signs the divorce decree, the terms are enforceable by law. If either party fails to comply with the decree, the other party may return to court to seek enforcement, which can result in various legal consequences, including contempt of court. The specifics of the divorce decree are determined based on South Carolina state statutes and case law, which govern family law matters.