Expands who can file petitions for orders of protection in domestic abuse cases in South Carolina.

This bill amends South Carolina law to allow a victim advocate to file a petition for an order of protection or a motion for further relief on behalf of a household member. It also adds a definition for "victim advocate" and modifies the process for hearings on petitions for orders of protection. The court must hold a hearing within fifteen days if no twenty-four-hour emergency hearing is requested.

Expands who can file petitions for orders of protection in domestic abuse cases in South Carolina.

This bill amends South Carolina law to allow a victim advocate to file a petition for an order of protection or a motion for further relief on behalf of a household member. It also adds a definition for "victim advocate" and modifies the process for hearings on petitions for orders of protection. The court must hold a hearing within fifteen days if no twenty-four-hour emergency hearing is requested.