South Carolina § 23-50-50 - Unauthorized divulgence of protected information by employees; penalty.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 23-50-50 — Unauthorized divulgence of protected information by employees; penalty., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23-50-50. Unauthorized divulgence of protected information by employees; penalty.
(A) A person who is a member or employee of the council, a crimestoppers organization, or a law enforcement agency who has knowledge of, or the contents of, or both of (1) a privileged communication, (2) protected information, or (3) a protected identity, or all three, commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly divulges to a person not employed by a law enforcement agency the content or existence of (1) a privileged communication, (2) protected information, or (3) a protected identity, or all three, without the consent of the person who made the privileged communication.
(B) An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars or up to one year in jail, or both, for each occurrence. However, an offense under this section is a Class F felony punishable by not more than five years imprisonment if the offense is committed with intent to obtain monetary gain or other benefit.
(C) Disclosing information pursuant to a valid court order is not an offense under this section.
HISTORY: 2006 Act No. 380, SECTION 1, eff upon approval (became law without the Governor's signature on June 14, 2006).
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 23-50-50
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 23-50-50 cover?
Section 23-50-50 ("Unauthorized divulgence of protected information by employees; 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 § 23-50-50?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 23-50-50" (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 § 23-50-50 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.