S.C. Code Ann. § 44-17-890: Discharge or leave of absence during judicial proceeding.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, no person with respect to whom proceedings for judicial confinement have been commenced shall be granted leave of absence, or discharged during the pendency of such proceedings unless ordered by the court upon the application of the patient or his legal guardian, parent, spouse or next of kin or upon the report of the superintendent of the facility that the person may be discharged with safety.