The bill S. 1140 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding the qualifications for probate judges and the duties of clerks of probate courts. Specifically, it revises Section 14-23-1040 to stipulate that no individual is eligible to hold the office of probate judge unless they are a licensed attorney in good standing or have ten years of experience as an employee in a probate judge's office. Additionally, it amends Section 14-23-1100 to introduce a mandatory continuing education requirement for clerks of probate courts, mandating that each clerk complete six hours of specific training by December 31 each year.

The bill also includes provisions to ensure that if any part of the act is found to be unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining sections will still be enforceable. This legislation is currently under consideration in the Senate Committee on Judiciary and will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
04/22/2026: 14-23-1040, 14-23-1100
Latest Version: 14-23-1040, 14-23-1100