The bill H. 3016 aims to enhance the legal protections for children taken into custody in South Carolina by establishing specific requirements for law enforcement officers before they can interrogate a child. It introduces a new section, 63-19-815, which mandates that children must be informed of their rights, including the right to remain silent, the right to have a parent or guardian present, and the right to consult with an attorney. Additionally, it stipulates that any confession or admission made by the child during interrogation can only be admitted as evidence if it occurs in the presence of a parent, guardian, custodian, or attorney, and that these individuals cannot waive the child's rights.

Furthermore, the bill grants the parent, guardian, custodian, or attorney the right to see the child upon request and requires law enforcement to cease questioning if the child expresses a desire to stop. This legislation is designed to ensure that children are treated fairly and that their rights are protected during the interrogation process. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 63-19-815
Latest Version: 63-19-815
12/06/2024: 63-19-815