The bill H. 5133 aims to establish the Circuit Solicitors' Qualifications Commission in South Carolina, which will be responsible for overseeing the conduct of elected circuit solicitors. The commission will consist of eight members appointed by the Governor, including a five-member investigative panel and a three-member hearing panel. The commission will have the authority to recommend discipline, removal, or involuntary retirement of circuit solicitors based on specific grounds such as misconduct, incapacity, or failure to perform duties. The bill outlines the appointment process, terms of service, and the responsibilities of each panel, including the investigation of complaints and adjudication of formal charges.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the confidentiality of disciplinary matters prior to formal charges being filed, while also providing for public disclosure of information once charges are initiated. It establishes procedures for handling complaints, including the requirement for sworn affidavits from complainants and the conditions under which investigations may be suspended. The commission is set to commence operations by July 1, 2026, with rules and regulations to be established by July 1, 2027. Importantly, individuals removed or involuntarily retired by the Governor will be disqualified from being elected as circuit solicitors for ten years following their removal.