The bill S. 426 proposes amendments to Section 17-3-510 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to the selection of Circuit Public Defenders. The key change is that the Governor will now appoint Circuit Public Defenders with the advice and consent of the Senate, replacing the previous method of selection. The bill outlines the structure of the Circuit Public Defender Selection Panel, which consists of active, licensed attorneys from the counties within each judicial circuit, ensuring representation based on county population and public defender appropriations.

Additionally, the bill specifies that Circuit Public Defenders must be full-time state employees, receive compensation and benefits equivalent to those of circuit solicitors, and are prohibited from engaging in private legal practice or other full-time profit-generating businesses. The process for nominating and appointing Circuit Public Defenders, as well as the procedures for filling vacancies, is also detailed, emphasizing the role of the selection panel and the Governor in these processes. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
03/05/2025: 17-3-510
Latest Version: 17-3-510