Amends the selection process for circuit public defenders in South Carolina.

The bill amends the South Carolina Code to revise the selection process for circuit public defenders. It establishes Circuit Public Defender Selection Panels in each judicial circuit, composed of active, licensed attorneys. These panels nominate candidates for the Governor to appoint as circuit public defenders, with the advice and consent of the Senate. The bill also sets the term length for circuit public defenders at four years and prohibits certain individuals from serving on the panels. The act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

Amends the selection process for circuit public defenders in South Carolina.

The bill amends the South Carolina Code to revise the selection process for circuit public defenders. It establishes Circuit Public Defender Selection Panels in each judicial circuit, composed of active, licensed attorneys. These panels nominate candidates for the Governor to appoint as circuit public defenders, with the advice and consent of the Senate. The bill also sets the term length for circuit public defenders at four years and prohibits certain individuals from serving on the panels. The act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.