Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in garlic and cook for a few seconds until fragrant.
Arrange scallops in a single layer in the skillet; cook until golden brown on one side, about 2 minutes. Turn scallops over using tongs and continue cooking until firm and opaque, about 2 minutes more. Transfer scallops to a platter, reserving butter in the skillet.
Whisk lemon juice, salt, and pepper into butter; pour sauce over scallops to serve.
