SC H3642

Creates two classes of magistrates: Class 1 magistrates appointed by the Governor with Senate consent, and Class 2 magistrates appointed by the Governor with General Assembly consent, both serving four-year terms

Requires Class 2 magistrates to be at least 30 years old and licensed to practice law in South Carolina for at least seven continuous years, compared to lower requirements for Class 1 magistrates

Increases civil jurisdiction limits for Class 1 magistrates from $7,500 to $10,000, while Class 2 magistrates receive jurisdiction up to $50,000 for most civil matters

Grants Class 2 magistrates concurrent jurisdiction over Class B and Class C misdemeanors in addition to standard magistrate criminal jurisdiction

Establishes higher salary schedule for Class 2 magistrates, starting at 100% of base salary upon appointment and increasing to 140% after four years, compared to Class 1 magistrates who start at 75% and reach 100% after four years