Bill > H3144

This bill amends South Carolina law by adding a new section (24-3-990) that protects inmates' access to legal counsel in state, county, or municipal detention facilities. Specifically, inmates cannot be denied access to their lawyers, with the caveat that such meetings must not compromise facility security or disrupt normal operations. The bill defines an "in-person meeting" as a consultation where the inmate and legal counsel are in the same room without a continuous partition. While facilities may provide general visual monitoring of these meetings, they are prohibited from using audio or video recording to ensure the confidentiality of attorney-client communications. This legislation aims to safeguard inmates' legal rights by ensuring they can consult with their legal representatives without undue restrictions, while still maintaining the safety and order of detention facilities. The bill will become effective immediately upon the Governor's approval.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3144&session=126&summary=B