Opinion ID: 1205734
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: modification of a final order

Text: The equitable distribution statute clearly provides that [t]he [family] court's order as it affects distribution of material property shall be a final order not subject to modification except by appeal or remand following proper appeal. S.C. Code Ann. § 20-7-472 (Cum. Supp. 1988). Mr. Thompson did not appeal the family court's order. Consequently, the order became final. Relief from a final judgment must be had through Rule 60 of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure, which is the mechanism for Relief from [a] Judgment or Order. Mr. Thompson did not proceed under Rule 60. His petition does, however, include a general allegation of mistake. Even construing his petition so liberally as to consider this to be a Rule 60(b) motion on the ground of mistake, we do not find that any mistake was made. Mr. Thompson testified that he knew and understood the bylaws of the Club. He entered into an agreement seeking to circumvent the rules of the Club, but was unsuccessful. He has failed to make a showing of mistake or any other ground sufficient to entitle him to relief under Rule 60.