The bill H. 3073 proposes the establishment of the Division of Statewide Grand Jury Defense within the Office of Indigent Defense in South Carolina. This new division will be administered by a chief attorney and will include additional staff necessary to fulfill its responsibilities. The division is tasked with representing individuals before a statewide grand jury who meet specific indigency criteria. Individuals seeking representation must submit a written request for a determination of their indigency status, and the division is required to respond within ten days. If a person is deemed indigent, the division will appoint counsel to represent them in their defense.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 17-3-5 of the South Carolina Code to include a definition for the "Division of Statewide Grand Jury Defense," thereby formalizing its role within the existing framework of indigent defense. The language clarifies the structure and responsibilities of the division, ensuring that only licensed attorneys are employed and that they dedicate their full time to the division's duties without engaging in private practice. This act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 17-3-365, 17-3-5
Latest Version: 17-3-365, 17-3-5
12/06/2024: 17-3-365, 17-3-5