(A) The municipal court established by this chapter shall be held by the Municipal Judge during his term of office. The Municipal Judge shall have all the powers and authority of magistrates in criminal cases within the corporate limits of the city and shall have the power and authority to try speedily all offenders in a summary manner and without a jury, unless demanded by the accused. ('90 Code, § 16-2)
(B) In case of a vacancy in the office of Municipal Judge, a successor shall be appointed in the manner of original appointment for the unexpired term. In case of the temporary absence, sickness or disability of the Municipal Judge, the court shall be held by a person who shall be designated by the Mayor and take the prescribed oath of office before entering upon his duties. ('90 Code, § 16-3)
(C) Whenever the Municipal Judge shall find a person tried before him guilty of violating any provision of this Code or other city ordinance he may impose, in his discretion, a fine or imprisonment in the alternative not to exceed a fine in the sum of $500 and/or imprisonment for not more than 30 days, unless a different punishment is specifically provided for in such Code or ordinance. ('90 Code, § 16-4)
Statutory reference:
Powers, duties and jurisdiction of municipal courts, see S.C. Code § 14-25-45