§ 34-3. Jurisdiction; appointment of associate judge.

The municipal judge shall hear and determine all cases within the jurisdiction of municipal courts under state law, including violations of municipal regulations. The municipal judge may impose fines not to exceed $500.00, or imprisonment for a period not to exceed 30 days, or both, in his discretion, and in addition shall impose costs and fees required by state law. The municipal judge may suspend sentences upon such terms and conditions as he deems proper, including, without limitation, restitution or public service employment. An associate judge may be appointed by town council to serve in the absence of the municipal judge and perform the same duties as described hereinabove.

(Code 1998, § 1-6-3)

Editor's note

According to state law, the municipal court may (1) try and determine criminal cases involving violations of S.C. Code 1976, title 56, ch. 5, occurring within the respective limits of this municipality, when the penalty prescribed by S.C. Code 1976, title 56, ch. 5 for such violations does not exceed 30 days' imprisonment nor a $100.00 fine, and may have trial jurisdiction over such criminal cases the same as magistrates; (2) try and determine all cases involving a violation of S.C. Code 1976, title 61, ch. 6, art. 13, except S.C. Code 1976, § 61-6-4720, per S.C. Code 1976, § 61-6-4500; (3) maintain jurisdiction for trial of persons under 17 years of age, for alleged violations of S.C. Code 1976, title 50, when the court would have jurisdiction if the offense charged was committed by an adult; and (4) try a first offense for violation of S.C. Code 1976, § 47-1-40 (ill-treatment of animals).