South Carolina § 63-7-1620 - Legal representation of children.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 63-7-1620 — Legal representation of children., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 63-7-1620. Legal representation of children.
In all child abuse and neglect proceedings:
(1) Children must be appointed a guardian ad litem by the family court. A guardian ad litem serving on behalf of the South Carolina Guardian ad Litem Program or Richland County CASA must be represented by legal counsel in any judicial proceeding pursuant to Section 63-11-530(C).
(2) The family court may appoint legal counsel for the child. Counsel for the child may not be the same as counsel for:
(a) the parent, legal guardian, or other person subject to the proceeding;
(b) any governmental or social agency involved in the proceeding;
(c) the child's guardian ad litem.
(3) Parents, legal guardians, or other persons subject to any judicial proceeding are entitled to legal counsel. Those persons unable to afford legal representation must be appointed counsel by the family court.
(4) The interests of the State and the Department of Social Services must be represented by the legal representatives of the Department of Social Services in any judicial proceeding.
HISTORY: 2008 Act No. 361, SECTION 2; 2008 Act No. 199, SECTION 1; 2010 Act No. 252, SECTION 1, eff June 11, 2010.
Effect of Amendment
The 2010 amendment rewrote this section.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 63-7-1620
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 63-7-1620 cover?
Section 63-7-1620 ("Legal representation of children.") 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 § 63-7-1620?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 63-7-1620" (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 § 63-7-1620 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.