South Carolina § 63-1-40 - Definitions.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 63-1-40 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 63-1-40. Definitions.
When used in this title and unless otherwise defined or the specific context indicates otherwise:
(1) "Child" means a person under the age of eighteen.
(2) "Court" means the family court.
(3) "Guardian" means a person who legally has the care and management of a child.
(4) "Judge" means the judge of the family court.
(5) "Parent" means biological parent, adoptive parents, step-parent, or person with legal custody.
(6) "Status offense" means any offense which would not be a misdemeanor or felony if committed by an adult, such as, but not limited to, incorrigibility (beyond the control of parents), truancy, running away, playing or loitering in a billiard room, playing a pinball machine or gaining admission to a theater by false identification.
(7) "Child caring facility" means a campus with one or more staffed residences and with a total population of twenty or more children who are in care apart from their parents, relatives, or guardians on a continuing full-time basis for protection and guidance.
(8) "Foster home" means a household of one or more persons who are licensed or approved to provide full-time care for one to five children living apart from their parents or guardians.
(9) "Residential group care home" means a staffed residence with a population fewer than twenty children who are in care apart from their parents, relatives, or guardians on a full-time basis.
HISTORY: 2008 Act No. 361, SECTION 2; 2023 Act No. 23 (S.342), SECTION 1, eff May 16, 2023.
Effect of Amendment
2023 Act No. 23, SECTION 1, reenacted the section with no apparent change.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 63-1-40
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 63-1-40 cover?
Section 63-1-40 ("Definitions.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Carolina § 63-1-40?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 63-1-40" (South Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 63-1-40 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.