General Sessions Court
The Solicitor’s Office handles criminal cases in circuit court, family court, and sometimes in magistrate’s court.
South Carolina Circuit Courts have two parts:
- General Sessions (criminal court); and
- Common Pleas (civil court).
The Fifth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office manages all criminal cases for Richland and Kershaw counties.
Criminal Court Process
After an arrest, your bond form lists your first court date.
If you have a lawyer
When your attorney files a Notice of Representation with the Clerk of Court and delivers it to the Solicitor’s Office, you do not need to attend your first appearance. You only need to attend your second appearance.
View the Second Appearance Docket
If you do not have a lawyer
You must attend your first appearance. At that time, you will receive your next court date.