South Carolina H3608 amends family court hearings to require a jury trial in cases that could result in imprisonment.

South Carolina H3608 modifies the conduct of family court hearings to mandate a jury trial in cases involving children where a party or witness could face imprisonment. All other cases must be handled as separate hearings without a jury. The hearings must be formal, with the general public excluded and only those with a direct interest admitted. The child's presence may be waived, and hearings can occur at any time or place within the county.

South Carolina H3608 amends family court hearings to require a jury trial in cases that could result in imprisonment.

South Carolina H3608 modifies the conduct of family court hearings to mandate a jury trial in cases involving children where a party or witness could face imprisonment. All other cases must be handled as separate hearings without a jury. The hearings must be formal, with the general public excluded and only those with a direct interest admitted. The child's presence may be waived, and hearings can occur at any time or place within the county.