Rule 1 Scope of Rules

Here's how civil cases work in South Carolina courts. This set of rules covers almost every civil lawsuit filed in the state, whether it's a legal claim or a claim based on fairness (what used to be called "equity" cases). There are a few exceptions listed in a separate rule (Rule 81), but for the vast majority of cases, these are the rules that apply.

The main goal behind these rules is simple: cases should be handled fairly, quickly, and without wasting people's money. Courts are supposed to use these rules in a way that helps get to a fair result without unnecessary delays or costs. This means judges and lawyers are expected to avoid dragging out cases or running up expenses when it's not needed.

For anyone involved in a lawsuit, this rule sets the tone for everything else that follows. It tells you that the entire system is built around fairness and efficiency, not technicalities for their own sake. If a court has to choose between a strict, complicated approach and one that's fair and practical, the rule pushes toward the fair and practical choice.