The South Carolina Supreme Court brought its work to the Upstate this week, convening a two‑day session at the Brooks Center on the Clemson University campus. The justices—Chief Justice John W. Kittredge and Associate Justices George C. “Buck” James Jr., D. Garrison “Gary” Hill, and Letitia Hamilton Verdin—will hear four cases on September 15 and 16, with each hearing beginning at 10:00 a.m. EDT. Live streams are available on FITSNews.
Key Case: Lawsuit Against Governor McMaster
The first case on the docket involves a complaint filed by the South Carolina Public Interest Foundation (SCPIF), a nonprofit that monitors compliance with the state constitution and statutes. SCPIF alleges that Governor Henry McMaster exceeded his statutory authority when he ordered the South Carolina National Guard to Washington, D.C. in August and December of last year at the request of President Donald Trump. The foundation argues that the deployment was not authorized under South Carolina law and seeks judicial clarification of the governor’s powers.
Other Matters on the Agenda
Also on the schedule is a separate lawsuit against Clemson University, in which SCPIF challenges the constitutionality of the university’s lifetime board‑of‑trustees appointments. The foundation contends that the board’s composition—majority control by a self‑perpetuating group of 13 members—violates state constitutional provisions. This case will not be heard during the special session but remains pending.
The second case slated for the first day continues a long‑standing dispute between former “Southern Charm” personalities Thomas Ravenel and Kathryn Dennis. Ravenel seeks to have family‑court records unsealed, claiming Dennis has misrepresented facts on social media. Dennis argues that public disclosure would not serve the best interests of their two minor children. The outcome could shape South Carolina’s open‑records law and set precedent for privacy versus transparency in family‑court matters.
Purpose and Community Impact
Clemson University officials describe the two‑day session as an effort to increase public understanding of the judicial system and make the court’s work more accessible to South Carolinians. By holding oral arguments on a university campus, the court hopes to engage students, faculty, and local residents directly, reinforcing the principle that the judiciary is a public institution accountable to the people.
All four arguments will be streamed live, allowing citizens across the state to follow the proceedings in real time. The Supreme Court’s presence in Clemson underscores the importance of constitutional fidelity and transparent governance—values that resonate with families and faith‑based communities throughout South Carolina.
About the Justices
Chief Justice John W. Kittredge leads the court, with Associate Justices George C. “Buck” James Jr., D. Garrison “Gary” Hill, and Letitia Hamilton Verdin joining him. The court is awaiting the election of a fifth justice early next year, which will restore its full five‑judge complement.
For more information on upcoming arguments and live‑stream links, visit FITSNews or the South Carolina Judicial Department’s website.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
