South Carolina Supreme Court to Host Special Session in Charleston with Free Legal Clinic

Charleston Welcomes the South Carolina Supreme Court

Charleston, SC – In a delightful twist of civic engagement, the South Carolina Supreme Court is set to take its show on the road! On the sunny days of September 10-11, locals will have a unique opportunity to witness the court in action at The Citadel’s Capers Hall Auditorium. With temperatures forecasted to reach a high of 84°F and inviting, gentle breezes from the northeast, it promises to be a fantastic time to learn about the judicial branch right in our own backyard.

What’s on the Docket?

The Supreme Court will hear arguments on two days, with the excitement kicking off at 9 a.m. on the 10th and starting at 10 a.m. on the 11th. What can attendees expect? According to Chief Justice John W. Kittredge, the court has lined up a mix of cases that will spark thought and discussion—three criminal cases and one civil suit.

“Indeed, the primary reason we travel all over our great state is to give students and other members of the public a real civics lesson in the Judicial Branch of government,” said Kittredge in a news release. He also mentioned that after each argument, the justices will welcome questions from the audience. So if you’ve ever wondered about the workings of our legal system, this is your chance to ask some questions!

Seating and Parking Information

In a cozy auditorium that seats just 250, the seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. So be sure to arrive early if you want a good spot! Zach Watson, a spokesperson for The Citadel, mentioned that public parking is available along the Avenue of Remembrance, along with designated visitor parking that can be found on The Citadel’s website.

A Learning Experience for All Ages

Expecting students to attend is a big part of the event, as it connects youth with their civic responsibilities. Chief Justice Kittredge emphasized the court’s mission of making these legal proceedings accessible and educational for all. The Supreme Court often travels to different parts of the state to bring the courtroom experience closer to the public, having recently visited Greenville, Horry, and Spartanburg.

Free Legal Clinic

In addition to the oral arguments, the event will also feature a free legal clinic on September 10. Running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Holliday Alumni Center, this clinic is a fantastic resource for those needing help with expungements, wills, and other legal services. Lawyers from various organizations, including the Charleston School of Law and the University of South Carolina’s Joseph Rice School of Law, will be there to offer assistance on a pro-bono basis.

A Community Initiative

This collaboration empowers community members by providing essential legal help to those who might not otherwise have access. Whether you’re curious about the workings of the judicial branch or need legal advice, this is an excellent opportunity for Charleston residents to engage with and learn from our legal system.

Join the Fun!

Whether you’re a legal eagle or just curious about court proceedings, the South Carolina Supreme Court’s visit to The Citadel is an exciting and informative event. Grab a friend, bring your questions, and enjoy a couple of days of civic engagement in our beautiful city. The clear skies and warm temperatures will be an added bonus as we delve into the fascinating world of law and justice!