South Carolina · SCRCP Rule 4(g)
Affidavit of Service in South Carolina
In South Carolina, a private server proves service by affidavit. DFS prepares that affidavit to the SCRCP Rule 4(g) standard and backs it with footage, a GPS log and field notes.
What a DFS affidavit includes
Rule 4(g) affidavits of service, signed by the person who served, backed by body-camera footage and GPS logs.
- Date, time and placeTaken from the GPS-stamped attempt log.
- Person servedName and address of the person served, or a physical description when no name is given.
- Method usedPersonal, abode or business delivery, stated plainly.
- Signature of the serverSigned by the person who made service.
- Supporting recordFootage, logs and notes kept and available to counsel on request.
The document that proves service happened
SCRCP Rule 4(g) generally provides that a sheriff or deputy proves service by certificate, while any other person proves it by affidavit. The proof must state the date, time and place of service and the name and address of the person actually served, or a description if the name is unknown.
Failure to make proof does not by itself undo valid service, but a thin affidavit invites a Rule 12(b)(5) challenge. The details recorded on the day of service are what let counsel answer one.
Who proves service, and how
| Server | Proof under Rule 4(g) |
|---|---|
| Sheriff or deputy | Certificate |
| Any other qualified person | Affidavit |
| Publication | Affidavit of the printer or publisher |
| Mail service | Affidavit with return receipt or returned envelope |
From serve to filed proof
- Service is madeThe server records the handoff and the recipient's details.
- Affidavit is preparedDetails are taken from the log and footage, not memory.
- Affidavit is signedThe server signs it as the rules require.
- You file itDFS returns it to you; filing with the clerk can be arranged on request where accepted.
Points to keep in mind
An affidavit reports facts. It does not decide whether service was legally sufficient.
- Courts may allow amendment of a proof of service under Rule 4(i) unless it would cause material prejudice.
- Subpoena proof follows Rule 45(b)(3), a certified statement filed with the clerk.
- Ejectment attempts are documented by affidavit under S.C. Code § 27-37-30(C).
Questions about affidavit of service
Who signs the affidavit?
The person who made service signs it. DFS does not have someone else sign for the server.
Can I see the footage before filing?
Yes. Footage, logs and notes are available to counsel on request.
What if the affidavit has an error?
Contact DFS right away. A corrected affidavit can be prepared, and Rule 4(i) generally lets the court allow amendment of proof.
South Carolina guides
Longer answers from the DFS Guides & FAQ.
Related pages
More on process serving in South Carolina.
Reviewed October 2026 by Delator Field Services. General information about South Carolina practice, not legal advice.
Papers to serve in South Carolina?
Send the documents and the recipient’s last known address through the request form. DFS confirms the county, service level and price in writing before the first attempt.
Questions first? Call or text (629) 310-8667 or email contact@delatorgroup.com.