Work With Me
Three ways to work with a South Carolina family law attorney, depending on where you are and what you need.
There are three ways to work with me directly. Which one fits depends on how far along you are and how much you want handled for you. A Strategy Session is the starting point if you need clarity before deciding anything. Flat-fee representation is for people who want the whole uncontested divorce handled from filing to final order. Mediation is for couples who want a neutral to help them reach agreement together.
Christopher J. Archer
Archer Swearingen Family Law
Licensed South Carolina attorney (SC Bar #101662)
USC School of Law
Over a decade of family law practice, focused on uncontested divorce and separate maintenance.
Strategy Session
A 30-minute paid consultation to understand your options, timeline, and best path forward.
Best for you if:
- You are not sure whether to hire an attorney, do it yourself, or mediate.
- You want a straight read on your specific situation before spending more.
- You want the fee credited toward representation if you retain within 14 days.
Price: $200. Credited toward your flat fee if you retain within 14 days.
For buyers who have not yet chosen a path. If you have chosen DIY and want attorney review of your specific case, see the DIY Packet Review Bundle.
Flat-Fee Uncontested Representation
I handle your uncontested divorce or separate support action from filing to final order, for a fixed fee.
Best for you if:
- You and your spouse agree on the terms.
- You want an attorney to manage the documents, filing, and hearing.
- You want a predictable price, not an hourly meter.
Price: $2,500 flat fee (uncontested divorce, or order of separate support and maintenance). Not separated a year yet? The two-step path is $3,500 standard, $3,250 prepaid.
Mediation Services
As an SC Supreme Court certified family court mediator, I help couples reach their own agreement as a neutral third party.
Best for you if:
- Both spouses are willing to negotiate.
- There is no active abuse.
- You want to resolve terms together rather than through opposing lawyers.
Price: $600 per 2-hour joint session for the couple, $300 per spouse. Sessions billed per session, one at a time.
Not sure, or prefer to handle it yourself?
Work With Me FAQ
Which option should I start with?
If you are not sure, start with a Strategy Session or the Uncontested Divorce Qualifier. Both tell you which path fits before you commit.
Do you represent both spouses?
No. In flat-fee representation I represent one spouse. In mediation I am a neutral and represent neither.
Is the Strategy Session fee wasted if I hire you?
No. The $200 credits toward your flat fee if you retain within 14 days.
Do you handle contested cases?
No. My practice is limited to uncontested and low-conflict family matters. If your case is contested, I will tell you at the Strategy Session and point you to attorneys who handle those.
Where do you practice?
South Carolina, statewide.