Allows magistrates to issue ex parte orders of protection and outlines procedures for hearings.

This bill amends South Carolina law to allow magistrates to issue ex parte orders of protection when there is probable cause to believe that abuse poses an immediate and present danger of bodily injury. The magistrate must hold a hearing within fourteen days to determine if the order should remain in effect. The bill also outlines procedures for serving the ex parte order and notice of the hearing on the respondent. The family court retains jurisdiction over proceedings under this chapter.

Allows magistrates to issue ex parte orders of protection and outlines procedures for hearings.

This bill amends South Carolina law to allow magistrates to issue ex parte orders of protection when there is probable cause to believe that abuse poses an immediate and present danger of bodily injury. The magistrate must hold a hearing within fourteen days to determine if the order should remain in effect. The bill also outlines procedures for serving the ex parte order and notice of the hearing on the respondent. The family court retains jurisdiction over proceedings under this chapter.