In re Extension of Video Hearings Pilot Program for Commitment Hearings

Summary

The South Carolina Supreme Court extended the Richland County Probate Court pilot program permitting videoconference appearances in specified commitment, review, and supplemental hearings. The order approves procedures concerning consent to remote appearance, electronic signatures, courtroom equipment, private attorney-client communication, document transmission, and recording of hearings.

Holdings

1. The pilot program for the use of video hearings in commitment hearings in Richland County Probate Court is extended, effective immediately, and remains in effect unless amended or rescinded by the Chief Justice.
2. During the pilot program, a court-appointed attorney or guardian ad litem may consent in writing and orally on the record to the person's appearance by videoconference rather than in person; suitable videoconferencing, display, communication, document-transmission, and recording equipment must be provided; private communication between the person and counsel or the guardian ad litem must be available; and the hearing must be recorded and preserved as the official record.

Questions Presented

1. Whether the Richland County Probate Court's pilot program for video hearings in commitment proceedings should be extended.
2. What procedures and safeguards must govern the use of videoconferencing in commitment, review, and supplemental hearings during the pilot program.

Disposition

other