The Magistrate Courts are courts in South Carolina that have jurisdiction over trial cases involving offenses with a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days.
Who is the chief magistrate for Lexington County?
Magistrate Locations
| Department/Office | Address |
|---|---|
| Oak Grove Magistrate, Judge Matthew Johnson, Chief Magistrate | 428 Oak Drive Lexington, SC 29073 |
| Cayce-West Columbia Magistrate, Judge Gary Morgan, Interim | 650 Knox Abbott Drive Cayce, SC 29033 |
| Chief Court Administrator, Ed Lewis | 139 East Main Street Lexington, SC 29072 |
What is a magistrate court case?
A Magistrates’ Court deals with minor offences and holds preliminary hearings for more serious offences. With any trial at a Magistrates’ Court, the trial is the process of deciding whether the defendant (the accused) is guilty or not guilty of a criminal offence.
How do you address a magistrate?
Magistrates. Call them ‘Sir’ or ‘Madam’ in court, or ‘Your Worship’.
What is an example of magistrate?
The definition of a magistrate is a civil or lay judge or other official who is responsible for administering and enforcing the laws, usually by holding hearings on minor offenses. A judge that hears traffic ticket cases and fines people is an example of a magistrate.
Who is the chief magistrate of South Carolina?
Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty is a native of Spartanburg, South Carolina. He attended public schools in Spartanburg County and is a graduate of South Carolina State University.
How many magistrates are in South Carolina?
There are approximately 300 magistrates in South Carolina, each serving the county for which he or she is appointed. They are appointed to four-year terms by the Governor upon the advice and consent of the Senate. Magistrates must also pass a certification examination within one year of their appointment.
What is the name of the magistrate court in Lexington?
Lexington Magistrate Court III in Lexington, South Carolina Address, Phone Number, and Fax Number for Lexington Magistrate Court III, a Court, at Oak Drive, Lexington SC.
How do I find out my court date in South Carolina?
The website of the South Carolina Judicial Department is The clerk can help you with things besides the date of your appearance.
What cases do magistrates deal with?
Magistrates are trained, unpaid members of their local community, who work part-time and deal with less serious criminal cases, such as minor theft, criminal damage, public disorder and motoring offences.
What do magistrates do in criminal cases?
What do magistrates do? Magistrates listen carefully to all evidence given in court and follow structured decision-making processes (such as sentencing guidelines in criminal cases) and case law to reach fair decisions. They are advised on points of law by a legal adviser who sits in court with them.
