South Carolina § 2-2-120 - Criminal contempt; penalty.

Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 2-2-120 — Criminal contempt; penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2-2-120. Criminal contempt; penalty.

A person is guilty of criminal contempt when, having been duly subpoenaed to attend as a witness before either house of the legislature or before any committee thereof, he:

(1) fails or refuses to attend without lawful excuse; or

(2) refuses to be sworn; or

(3) refuses to answer any material and proper question; or

(4) refuses, after reasonable notice, to produce books, papers, or documents in his possession or under his control which constitute material and proper evidence.

A person who is convicted of or pleads guilty to criminal contempt is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined within the discretion of the court or imprisoned for not more than five years, or both.

HISTORY: 2014 Act No. 121 (S.22), Pt IV, SECTION 6.D, eff January 1, 2015.

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Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 2-2-120

What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 2-2-120 cover?

Section 2-2-120 ("Criminal contempt; penalty.") 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 § 2-2-120?

A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 2-2-120" (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 § 2-2-120 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.