Presbyterian College to host the Supreme Court of South Carolina
January 18, 2026
Presbyterian College will host the Supreme Court of South Carolina for a special term of court this spring, offering students, educators and community members a rare opportunity to witness the state’s highest court in action.
The Court will convene in Belk Auditorium on Tuesday, March 31, and Wednesday, April 1, hearing two cases each morning. Proceedings will begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude at 12:30 p.m. daily. After each argument, the justices will entertain questions from the students.
South Carolina ETV will livestream both days of proceedings.
Educational Opportunity for Students and Schools
Presbyterian College will welcome middle school and high school students from local schools, along with PC students from across academic disciplines. The sessions will give young people a first-hand look at the judicial process, appellate arguments, and the role of the judiciary in state government.
PC president Dr. Anita Gustafson said hosting the state’s highest court reflects the college’s longstanding commitment to public service, civic education and democratic engagement.
“We are honored to welcome the Supreme Court of South Carolina to Presbyterian College,” Gustafson said. “Providing our students—and students from throughout the region—an opportunity to witness the judicial process in action aligns perfectly with PC’s mission. We challenge our students to become engaged citizens who understand how institutions of government operate and why they matter.”
About the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court of South Carolina is the state’s highest appellate authority. The Court is composed of a chief justice and four associate justices, all elected by the South Carolina General Assembly to staggered 10-year terms. Justices may be re-elected to additional terms.
The Court exercises both appellate and original jurisdiction. It has exclusive authority to hear appeals involving death sentences, constitutional challenges, election matters, bonded indebtedness and certain orders from the Public Service Commission and State Grand Jury. The Court also reviews family and circuit court rulings in post-conviction relief cases. The Supreme Court may also review a decision of the South Carolina Court of Appeals by issuing a writ of certiorari, and it may affirm, reverse, or modify the Court of Appeals’ decision.
In its original jurisdiction, the Supreme Court may agree to hear cases directly when significant public interest is involved. The Court may also answer legal questions certified by federal courts or the highest courts of other states.
A Tradition of Judicial Engagement
Since its creation in 1868, the state’s Supreme Court has periodically held special sessions outside of Columbia to expand public access and engage with schools and communities. The session at Presbyterian College continues that tradition, allowing students and citizens to observe the deliberative process of the state’s judicial branch.
“The Supreme Court cares deeply about the state of South Carolina and its citizens,” said Chief Justice John Kittredge. “We hope you will sense that commitment, and in turn, you will gain an appreciation and respect for all in the Judicial Branch who strive to uphold the rule of law. Please join the Supreme Court at Presbyterian College!”
Open to the Public
All proceedings in Belk Auditorium are free and open to the public, and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Further details about parking and visitor guidance will be announced closer to the event.
