H4814

Magistrate reform

Introduced·1/13/26
Introduced Text

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.

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
2
RR
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Jan 13

House

Introduced and read first time

Jan 13

House

Referred to Committee on Judiciary

Dec 16, 2025

House

Prefiled