Requires magistrates to be licensed attorneys, with exceptions for smaller counties.

The bill amends the South Carolina Code to require that magistrates must be licensed attorneys. Exceptions are made for counties with populations under 75,000, where magistrates must hold a four-year baccalaureate degree. The changes take effect on July 1, 2026.

Requires magistrates to be licensed attorneys, with exceptions for smaller counties.

The bill amends the South Carolina Code to require that magistrates must be licensed attorneys. Exceptions are made for counties with populations under 75,000, where magistrates must hold a four-year baccalaureate degree. The changes take effect on July 1, 2026.