The bill H. 3228 proposes amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding jury selection procedures. It allows for attorney-conducted jury voir dire through oral and direct questioning, which must occur after the jury panel is sworn in and following a brief statement of the case by the trial judge. The bill specifies that the scope of voir dire is determined by the trial judge and outlines the process for proposing questions, including a requirement for written exchange of questions at least seven days prior to jury selection. Additionally, it establishes time limits for questioning and prohibits certain types of inquiries, such as those related to jurors' political views or religious beliefs, unless deemed relevant by the judge.

Furthermore, the bill grants trial judges discretion over the number of jurors to be drawn for jury panels, removing the previous requirement that panels consist of twenty jurors. This change is reflected in the amendments to Sections 14-7-1060 and 14-7-1080, which streamline the jury selection process. The bill aims to enhance the efficiency and fairness of jury trials in South Carolina by providing clearer guidelines for voir dire and jury panel composition. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 14-7-1050, 14-7-1060, 14-7-1080
Latest Version: 14-7-1050, 14-7-1060, 14-7-1080
12/06/2024: 14-7-1050, 14-7-1060, 14-7-1080