Amends magistrate appointment requirements in South Carolina, including residency, citizenship, age, and education.

The bill amends the South Carolina Code to revise eligibility criteria for magistrate appointments. It specifies that a person must be a U.S. citizen and resident of South Carolina for at least five years, at least 21 years old, and possess a two-year associate degree. The bill also allows for the appointment of a screening committee to assist in magistrate selection, including house delegation members and public residents. Effective July 1, 2026, the educational requirement changes to a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional qualifications based on degree and experience in law.

Amends magistrate appointment requirements in South Carolina, including residency, citizenship, age, and education.

The bill amends the South Carolina Code to revise eligibility criteria for magistrate appointments. It specifies that a person must be a U.S. citizen and resident of South Carolina for at least five years, at least 21 years old, and possess a two-year associate degree. The bill also allows for the appointment of a screening committee to assist in magistrate selection, including house delegation members and public residents. Effective July 1, 2026, the educational requirement changes to a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional qualifications based on degree and experience in law.