Guardians ad litem must be either attorneys or laypersons with specific qualifications and continuing education.

This bill amends the South Carolina Code to revise the qualifications for guardians ad litem. Attorneys must complete six hours of family law continuing education annually, while laypersons must complete nine hours initially and six hours annually. Laypersons must also observe three contested custody hearings. Both must be at least 25 years old and have a high school diploma. Those convicted of certain crimes are disqualified. The court may appoint an attorney for a lay guardian ad litem.

Guardians ad litem must be either attorneys or laypersons with specific qualifications and continuing education.

This bill amends the South Carolina Code to revise the qualifications for guardians ad litem. Attorneys must complete six hours of family law continuing education annually, while laypersons must complete nine hours initially and six hours annually. Laypersons must also observe three contested custody hearings. Both must be at least 25 years old and have a high school diploma. Those convicted of certain crimes are disqualified. The court may appoint an attorney for a lay guardian ad litem.