South Carolina § 16-17-520 - Disturbance of religious worship.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-17-520 — Disturbance of religious worship., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-17-520. Disturbance of religious worship.
Any person who shall (a) wilfully and maliciously disturb or interrupt any meeting, society, assembly or congregation convened for the purpose of religious worship, (b) enter such meeting while in a state of intoxication or (c) use or sell spirituous liquors, or use blasphemous, profane or obscene language at or near the place of meeting shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall, on conviction, be sentenced to pay a fine of not less than twenty nor more than one hundred dollars, or be imprisoned for a term not exceeding one year or less than thirty days, either or both, at the discretion of the court.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 16-557; 1952 Code SECTION 16-557; 1942 Code SECTION 1736; 1932 Code SECTION 1736; Cr. C. '22 SECTION 718; Cr. C. '12 SECTION 703; Cr. C. '02 SECTION 505; G. S. 1635; R. S. 390; 1873 (15) 352; 1894 (21) 824; 1897 (22) 409.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 16-17-520
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-17-520 cover?
Section 16-17-520 ("Disturbance of religious worship.") 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 § 16-17-520?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-17-520" (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 § 16-17-520 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.