S.C. Code Ann. § 17-3-580: Public defenders; requirements as to employment.

(A) A public defender employed full-time by the circuit public defender shall not engage in the private practice of law for profit.

(B) A public defender employed by the circuit public defender must be a member of the South Carolina Bar and must be admitted to practice before all courts of this State.

(C) A public defender shall serve at the pleasure of the circuit public defender and shall have the authority, powers, and duties as assigned by the circuit public defender.