South Carolina § 23-17-20 - Open contempt or breach of duty.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 23-17-20 — Open contempt or breach of duty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23-17-20. Open contempt or breach of duty.
Any sheriff shall be liable to be proceeded against in any court of record in this State for an open contempt or for a breach of official duty. For an open contempt he shall be liable to be attached forthwith. For a breach of official duty he may be required, by rule, to answer to the complaint of any suitor of the court and upon failing to answer or comply with the order of the court, made on the hearing of such rule, he shall be liable to be attached as for a contempt and committed to close custody until he shall have complied with the requisition of the court. In all cases, interrogatories may be propounded to him, which he shall answer on oath, either orally or in writing, as the court may order.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 53-212; 1952 Code SECTION 53-212; 1942 Code SECTION 3530; 1932 Code SECTION 3530; Civ. C. '22 SECTION 2073; Civ. C. '12 SECTION 1180; Civ. C. '02 SECTION 855; G. S. 672; R. S. 735; 1839 (11) 44.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 23-17-20
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 23-17-20 cover?
Section 23-17-20 ("Open contempt or breach of duty.") 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 § 23-17-20?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 23-17-20" (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 § 23-17-20 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.