SC H3306

Increases the South Carolina Court of Appeals from 9 judges (1 Chief Judge + 8 associates) to 15 judges (1 Chief Judge + 14 associates)

Establishes staggered terms for the 6 new judges (Seats 10-15) beginning July 1, 2026: Seats 10-11 serve 2-year terms, Seats 12-13 serve 4-year terms, and Seats 14-15 serve 6-year terms

Expands the court from 3 panels to 5 panels of 3 judges each, with 2 panels designated for criminal matters and 2 panels for civil matters, plus a fifth panel to balance caseloads

Increases the threshold for en banc hearings from 6 judges to 10 judges required to grant a petition or motion, and raises the quorum for en banc sessions from 6 to 10 judges

Takes effect July 1, 2026