The South Carolina Supreme Court reigns as the highest judicial body in the state. Established in 1841, the court holds the ultimate authority on matters of law within South Carolina’s borders.
Composition and Selection
The court comprises five justices: a chief justice and four associates. Unlike most states, South Carolina employs a unique selection process. Rather than gubernatorial appointment followed by Senate confirmation, the South Carolina General Assembly elects justices through a legislative vote. This method is only shared by one other state. Before a legislative vote occurs, a Judicial Merit Selection Commission creates a shortlist of qualified candidates.
Jurisdiction
The South Carolina Supreme Court wields both original and appellate jurisdiction. It has exclusive appellate authority over specific cases, including those involving:
- The death penalty
- State utility rates
- Elections
- Public bonded indebtedness judgments
- Limitations on state grand juries
- Abortions by minors
For these cases, the Supreme Court serves as the final arbiter within the state’s judicial system.
In its original jurisdiction capacity, the court can issue writs of mandamus and certiorari. These writs are legal orders compelling specific actions or reviewing lower court decisions. Additionally, the court holds original jurisdiction over extraordinary bills, which are legislative actions addressing unique situations.
Recent Developments
The South Carolina Supreme Court has recently garnered attention for its lack of diversity. In 2023, the appointment of Letitia Verdin, a white woman, filled the vacancy left by a retiring Black chief justice. This resulted in an all-white Supreme Court, sparking discussions about the need for a judiciary that better reflects the state’s demographics. South Carolina’s population is roughly 28% Black, and calls for increased diversity on the court are ongoing.
The South Carolina Supreme Court serves as a cornerstone of the state’s legal system, ensuring fair and lawful interpretations of the law. As the debate on judicial diversity continues, the court’s composition and its rulings will likely remain in the spotlight.