The bill H. 4805 proposes amendments to the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding the structure of judicial circuits and the election of judges. Specifically, it seeks to convert three at-large circuit court seats into resident seats in the First, Third, and Eighth Circuits. Additionally, it aims to convert four at-large family court seats into resident seats in the Fifth, Tenth, and Twelfth Circuits. The bill outlines the new designations for these seats and clarifies that current judges in at-large seats that are converted will not need to undergo additional screening until the end of their current terms.

The bill also amends the number of judges to be elected from each circuit, specifying that certain circuits must have resident judges from counties with smaller populations. It maintains the provision for additional judges to be elected at-large without regard to county or circuit of residence. The changes are intended to enhance local representation within the judicial system while ensuring that existing judges can continue their service without interruption. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/17/2025: 14-5-610, 63-3-40
Latest Version: 14-5-610, 63-3-40