State Court Operations (May 4-June 12, 2020)

In an recent memorandum, the S.C. Supreme Court provided an outline for state court operations during the upcoming six-week period of May 4-June 12, 2020.

The Chief Justice directed:

1. Judges not previously scheduled for vacation to operate on a normal schedule;

2. Judges not to travel outside of the circuits where they reside;

3. Clerks of Court to prepare case dockets for Common Pleas (civil), General Sessions (criminal), and Family Court; and

4. Judges to conduct pre-trial hearings and status conferences by videoconference and as many other previously scheduled hearings as practical.

The Chief Justice emphasized the importance of making every reasonable effort to provide access to the courts, to protect the constitutional rights of individuals, and to ensure that justice is served.  Even in the midst of a crisis, the rule of law must be upheld to maintain an orderly and just society.