CIRCUIT COURT - 1220

CIRCUIT COURT - 1220 DESCRIPTION The Circuit Court is a state court of general jurisdiction. Dorchester County is a part of the 1st Judicial Circuit Court. The Court has a civil court and a criminal court. The Court of Common Pleas is the civil court and the Court of General Sessions is its criminal court. In addition to its general trial jurisdiction, the Circuit Court has limited appellate jurisdiction over appeals from the Probate Court, Magistrate's Court, and Municipal Court, as well as appeals from the Administrative Law Judge Division, which hears matters relating to state administrative and regulatory agencies. GOALS 1. To process Judicial commitments daily during General Sessions Court. 2. Prepare and mail within 24 hours Juror summons for General Sessions and Civil Court. 3. Process juror compensation after each term of Court and remit to Finance Dept for payment. SERVICE AREAS Administrative Support: Administrative support for the Circuit Court is provided by the Clerk of Court’s office. The Clerk’s office is responsible for the accepting and processing all paperwork concerning the Circuit Court, required to maintain all court records, and responsible for drawing jurors for Common Pleas and General Sessions. For Common Pleas, this includes maintaining all paperwork in the civil cases, scheduling jury and non-jury trials and scheduling all motions that need to be heard. For General Sessions, this includes accepting and maintaining all warrants that are not misdemeanors; handling cash bonds, surety bonds, and also property bonds for parties that are able to post bond until trial; and receiving and disbursing fees, fines, and restitution. Dorchester County 131 CIRCUIT COURT - 1220 Departmental Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ FY04 Actual 0 0 90,456 90,456 $ FY05 Actual 0 0 101,541 101,541 $ FY06 Budget 0 0 158,809 158,809 $ FY07 Approved 0 0 158,809 158,809 $ Change 0 0 - $ $ $ $ $ Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $160 $140 $120 $100 $80 $60 $40 $20 $FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR FY 2007: Operating expenditures reflect no change. OBJECT 31-02 44-01 61-01 63-01 64-01 Funding for jurors and their mileage. Funding for copier lease. Funding for supplies for court. Food and drinks for jurors when ordered by the Judge. Books and Periodicals Thousands Dorchester County 132 CIRCUIT COURT - 1220 Circuit Court Account Number 101-1220-412.31-02 101-1220-412.44-01 101-1220-412.53-01 101-1220-412.53-02 101-1220-412.53-06 101-1220-412.55-01 101-1220-412.57-01 101-1220-412.61-01 101-1220-412.61-08 101-1220-412.61-12 101-1220-412.62-02 101-1220-412.63-01 101-1220-412.64-01 Account Description Court Personnel Rentals and Leases Data Processing Mobile & Cell Phones Postage Printing and Binding Travel Office Supplies Furniture & Fixtures Communications Supplies Fuel and Oil Food Books & Periodicals General Fund Total FY 03/04 Actual 80,962 564 0 0 0 0 0 1,344 0 0 0 7,312 275 90,456 FY 04/05 Actual 91,725 711 0 0 0 0 0 1,785 0 0 0 6,987 334 101,541 FY 05/06 Budget 146,209 750 0 1,440 0 1,000 0 1,800 0 200 0 7,000 410 158,809 FY 06/07 Approved 138,864 600 35 1,600 2,000 1,000 1,000 1,800 2,000 500 0 9,000 410 158,809 Dorchester County 133 CLERK OF COURT- 1221 DESCRIPTION The Clerk of Court's office is responsible for the administration and supervision of the General Sessions and Common Pleas courts, including courtroom duties such as administering oaths and publishing verdicts, docket management, preparing trial rosters, receiving and disbursing revenue from bonds, restitution, fines, and fees; and juror related matters such as summons. GOALS 1. To process arrest warrants within two working days. 2. File cases within twenty-four hours of receipt. 3. Post and deposit fines and fees daily. 4. Post trial rosters online within thirty days of Court terms. 5. Revenues and reports to Treasurer within 48 hours of the due date. SERVICE AREAS Docket Management: Processes arrest warrants, indictments, expungements, files civil actions, Lis Pen dens, Motions, Judgments and Commissions. Pursuant to South Carolina state law, the Clerk's office is mandated to carry out these procedures. Trial Roster: The Clerk's office implements and coordinates civil rosters to be utilized by the attorneys and the court by arranging the civil cases on a trial roster and scheduling the attorneys to appear in court. Receiving Revenue: The Clerk's office receives court fees, fines, costs, restitutions, and bonds and disburses fees, fines, costs, restitutions and bond monies that are associated with the court and also monitors civil escrow bank accounts. These monies are received and disbursed daily. Juror Related Matters: The Clerk acts as chairman of the Jury Commissioners, summons all Grand and Petit Jurors, manages the Jury Venire for their appearance in court, and compensates jurors for their service. Courtroom: The presence of the Clerk is required at all terms of Court. The duties consist of selecting jurors, administering oaths, publishing verdicts and processing court documents, etc. Dorchester County 134 CLERK OF COURT- 1221 Departmental Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Licenses and Permits Intergovernmental Charges and Fees Fines and Penalties TOTAL REVENUES Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ FY04 Actual 7 0 650 1,568 81,926 93,385 177,529 288,948 22,704 311,652 $ FY05 Actual 7 0 600 1,575 75,315 59,207 136,697 294,833 22,860 317,693 $ FY06 Budget 7 0 600 1,575 71,160 57,000 130,335 307,393 25,917 333,310 $ FY07 Approved 8 0 600 1,575 73,800 99,000 174,975 346,955 25,917 372,872 $ Change 1 0 2,640 42,000 44,640 39,562 39,562 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Expenditure Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $380 $370 $360 $350 $340 $330 $320 $310 $300 $290 $280 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR FY 2007: Personnel costs reflect the addition of a Court Administrator. Also included are COLA and merit pay increases for the incumbents. Operating costs reflect no change. Thousands Dorchester County 135 CLERK OF COURT- 1221 OBJECT 11-01 Funding adopted for 8 full-time positions (Clerk Of Court, Chief Deputy Clerk Of Court, Court Administrator, 2 Deputy Clerks Of Court, And 3 Senior Court Clerks). State training for employees. Funding to lease 2 copy machines. Funding for bonds for Clerk of Court and Deputy Clerks. Funding for mailing jury summons, jury checks, court rosters, restitution checks and receipts, notices of filing plus other correspondences. Funding for long distance calls made by the Clerk’s office. Travel to state and local meetings throughout the year, and to attend the State Clerk of Court meetings. Also includes travel to Family Court. Includes general office supplies, judgment books, file folders, envelopes, stationary work statements, etc. 32-01 44-01 52-01 53-06 53-07 57-01 61-01 Performance Indicators COMMON PLEAS Cases Filed Lis Pen Dens Cancellation Of Lis Pen Dens Commissions Trial Rosters Non-Jury Judgments Jury Judgments Motions GENERAL SESSIONS Warrants Indictments Fines & Fees Expungements Court Days Attended Escrow Accts Juror Summons Bench Warrants Bondsman License Bonds Posted FY04 Actual 2,132 64 104 314 EMAILED 2,243 15 1,712 FY05 Actual 1,934 501 177 459 EMAILED 1,863 28 1,789 FY06 Estimated 2,000 525 200 475 EMAILED 2,000 30 1,900 FY07 Projected 2,100 550 225 500 EMAILED 2,100 35 2,000 2,358 1,419 2,500 191 240 57 4,500 219 n/a n/a 1,728 1,640 2,050 n/a 245 47 4,930 n/a 41 50 2,500 1,750 2,100 n/a 250 48 5,000 n/a 40 55 2,500 1,850 2,150 n/a 255 50 5,100 n/a 40 55 Dorchester County 136 CLERK OF COURT- 1221 Clerk of Court Account Number 101-1221-412.11-01 101-1221-412.11-02 101-1221-412.13-01 101-1221-412.21-01 101-1221-412.21-02 101-1221-412.22-01 101-1221-412.23-01 101-1221-412.26-01 101-1221-412.32-01 101-1221-412.43-01 101-1221-412.43-03 101-1221-412.44-01 101-1221-412.52-01 101-1221-412.53-02 101-1221-412.53-05 101-1221-412.53-06 101-1221-412.53-07 101-1221-412.55-01 101-1221-412.56-01 101-1221-412.57-01 101-1221-412.61-01 101-1221-412.61-12 101-1221-412.61-55 101-1221-412.64-01 Account Description Regular Wages Part-time Wages Overtime Wages Employee Group Health Ins Employee Group Dental Ins Social Sec & Medicare State & Police Retirement Workers Compensation Training & Prof Develop Maint & Service Contracts Equip Repairs & Maint Rentals and Leases Insurance Mobile & Cell Phones Fire Alarm and Security Postage Telephone Printing and Binding Membership Fees Travel Office Supplies Communications Supplies Uniforms and Clothing Books & Periodicals General Fund Total FY 03/04 Actual 226,852 3,768 0 22,407 868 17,837 17,217 0 925 0 215 5,554 88 0 0 5,710 240 3,719 94 2,279 3,800 0 0 80 311,652 FY 04/05 Actual 233,101 2,921 255 24,038 1,362 17,170 15,985 0 595 0 295 3,991 100 739 0 5,400 271 3,800 167 2,679 4,487 0 228 108 317,693 FY 05/06 Budget 243,117 0 0 24,320 984 18,723 18,713 1,536 2,000 0 300 5,500 300 0 0 6,500 500 4,650 200 2,000 3,600 0 257 110 333,310 FY 06/07 Approved 273,941 0 0 29,793 1,064 18,903 21,928 1,326 2,000 0 257 5,550 100 0 0 6,500 500 3,650 200 3,000 3,600 200 250 110 372,872 Dorchester County 137 FAMILY COURT - 1230 DESCRIPTION The Family Court is dictated by the South Carolina Code of Laws and Supreme Court to insure proper operation of the legal process involved. The staff prepares related tasks including filing domestic and juvenile documents; collecting and disbursing support payments, juvenile restitution fees, attorneys' fees and medical fees when necessary; and maintaining enforcement collection of support and many others. GOALS 1. To process Bench warrants within five days after court. 2. Process at least 20 new Juvenile cases within a two hour period. 3. Notify Non-custodial parents, who are delinquent in support within 10 days. 4. To have 100% customer satisfaction. SERVICE AREAS Filing Department: Files and maintains legal documents prepared by attorneys, pro se customers (no attorney representation), and different agencies for domestic and juvenile actions for the purpose of court hearings. For each new action, when applicable, a fee is charged. Collection and Disbursement of Support Payments: Collect and post to accounts established by court order. Upon collection, checks and receipts are printed. Collections are balanced and deposited daily. Checks are mailed to customers the following day. Attorneys' and medical fees are processed in the same manner. Juvenile Restitution Fees: Fees are established by court order. Fees are collected and posted to accounts. After deposits are made, manual checks are typed and mailed to victims. Enforcement of Support: Support is enforced when a customer has failed to make payments in a timely manner and an account is delinquent. Accounts are monitored by a clerk and a Rule to Show Cause is generated by computer when accounts are more than five days late. Rules are done monthly. Failure to comply with a court order could result in jail time. Docket Scheduling: Dockets are scheduled for Family Court Judges from hearing requests submitted by attorneys and pro se customers. Weekly dockets are typed and court dockets are prepared six months in advance. Report Preparation: Prepare daily, monthly, quarterly and annual reports when due for the purpose of turning fees over to the Treasurer's office and billing the Department of Social Services for unit costs, the process server, and filing fees. Dorchester County 138 FAMILY COURT - 1230 Program Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Charges and Fees Fines and Penalties TOTAL REVENUES Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ $ $ FY04 Actual 7 0 303,591 20,417 324,008 220,806 50,265 271,071 $ $ $ FY05 Actual 7 0 347,847 3,780 351,627 222,272 53,471 275,743 $ $ $ FY06 Budget 7 0 342,276 342,276 235,988 50,504 286,492 $ $ $ FY07 Approved 7 0 365,092 1,500 366,592 241,906 53,504 295,410 $ $ $ Change 0 0 22,816 1,500 24,316 5,918 3,000 8,918 $ $ $ $ $ Expenditure Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $300 $295 $290 $285 $280 $275 $270 $265 $260 $255 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR FY 2007: Personnel costs reflect the COLA and merit pay increases for the incumbents. Operating costs reflect an increase in furniture and fixtures and cellular phone usage. There is also an increase to fund higher postage rates. OBJECT 11-01 Funding adopted for 7 full-time positions (Family Court Coordinator, 4 child support enforcement clerks, and 2 court clerks). Funding for service on 1 copier, and 2 stamp clocks, check signer, 2 typewriters and fax machine. 43-01 Thousands Dorchester County 139 FAMILY COURT - 1230 44-01 53-06 53-07 55-01 57-01 Funding for cost-per-copy lease of new copier. Also includes P.O. Box rental. Funding for postage for mailing support checks and general office mail. Includes long distance charges made by the clerks and Judges’ office. Printing and binding for forms. Funding for travel to Summerville by Clerk of Court, trips to post office and bank, and annual spring conference in Myrtle Beach. Uniforms and clothing funds used to purchase uniforms for process server. Bank fees and charges. 61-55 80-03 Performance Indicators Number of the following: Domestic Cases Filed Juvenile Cases Filed Restitution Fees Issued Rule to Show Cause Issued Bench Warrants Issued Checks Issued Affidavits Successfully Served Court Sessions Clerk Attended FY04 Actual 1,800 620 45 1,800 350 55,250 n/a n/a FY05 Actual 1,850 678 78 1,800 410 58,015 800 24 FY06 Estimated 1,900 700 78 2,000 450 60,504 900 24 FY07 Projected 1,900 700 50 2,000 475 69,720 900 24 Dorchester County 140 FAMILY COURT - 1230 Family Court Account Number 101-1230-412.11-01 101-1230-412.11-02 101-1230-412.13-01 101-1230-412.21-01 101-1230-412.21-02 101-1230-412.22-01 101-1230-412.23-01 101-1230-412.26-01 101-1230-412.32-01 101-1230-412.34-09 101-1230-412.43-01 101-1230-412.43-03 101-1230-412.44-01 101-1230-412.52-01 101-1230-412.53-02 101-1230-412.53-06 101-1230-412.53-07 101-1230-412.55-01 101-1230-412.56-01 101-1230-412.57-01 101-1230-412.61-01 101-1230-412.61-08 101-1230-412.61-12 101-1230-412.61-55 101-1230-412.80-03 101-1230-412.80-98 Account Description Regular Wages Part-time Wages Overtime Wages Employee Group Health Ins Employee Group Dental Ins Social Sec & Medicare State & Police Retirement Workers Compensation Training & Prof Develop Other Maint & Service Contracts Equip Repairs & Maint Rentals and Leases Insurance Mobile & Cell Phones Postage Telephone Printing and Binding Membership Fees Travel Office Supplies Furniture & Fixtures Communications Supplies Uniforms and Clothing Bank Fees and Charges Miscellaneous General Fund Total FY 03/04 Actual 174,591 0 112 18,141 882 13,822 13,258 0 0 0 1,218 0 3,428 0 0 24,401 306 12,997 50 1,003 6,372 0 0 365 126 0 271,071 FY 04/05 Actual 175,896 0 0 19,816 1,458 13,101 12,001 0 0 0 1,580 498 3,362 0 0 24,793 228 14,408 25 967 5,120 2,281 0 209 0 0 275,743 FY 05/06 Budget 184,932 0 0 20,604 984 14,154 14,153 1,161 0 20 1,538 90 3,400 0 669 23,700 300 12,772 0 1,000 6,210 0 137 418 250 0 286,492 FY 06/07 Approved 189,926 0 0 21,243 984 13,680 15,253 820 0 0 1,621 0 3,400 0 780 23,700 300 13,500 0 1,200 6,128 2,300 0 325 250 0 295,410 Dorchester County 141 FAMILY COURT/DSS - 1231 DESCRIPTION The Family Court is dictated by the South Carolina Codes of Laws and Supreme Court to insure proper operation of the legal process involved. This includes filing legal documents, enforcement of support, service of papers and corresponding with different courts and agencies. The Family Court has exclusive jurisdiction in all matters involving domestic or family relationships. GOALS Note: See Family Court - 1230 for related goals. SERVICE AREAS Filing: Department of Social Services (DSS) support actions are filed by the legal division. Legal documents are prepared by the DSS attorneys and files are maintained for the purpose of court hearings. Enforcement of Support: Support is enforced when a customer has failed to comply with a court order and is more than five days late with making a support payment. A Rule to Show Cause is issued for the purpose of a court appearance before a Family Court judge. Failure to comply could result in jail time. Serving of DSS Paperwork: The process server serves all paperwork pertaining to Dorchester County generated by the Department of Social Services Legal Division and the Family Court Clerk. The documents are normally new cases for support and Rules to be served on customers to appear in court. Dorchester County 142 FAMILY COURT/DSS - 1231 Program Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ FY04 Actual 4 0 145,385 4,407 149,792 $ FY05 Actual 4 0 147,613 6,749 154,362 $ FY06 Budget 4 0 157,787 5,753 163,540 $ FY07 Approved 4 0 151,871 5,753 157,624 $ Change 0 0 (5,916) (5,916) $ $ $ $ $ Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $165 Thousands $160 $155 $150 $145 $140 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR FY 2007: Operating expenditures reflect no change. OBJECT 11-01 Funding adopted for 4 full-time positions (DSS Supervisor, Docketing Clerk, Process Server, and Child Enforcement Clerk). Funding for membership fees. Funding for travel to various meetings, child support and DSS conferences, and for the process servers to serve papers. 56-01 57-01 Dorchester County 143 FAMILY COURT/DSS - 1231 Family Court / DSS Account Number 101-1231-412.11-01 101-1231-412.11-02 101-1231-412.13-01 101-1231-412.21-01 101-1231-412.21-02 101-1231-412.22-01 101-1231-412.23-01 101-1231-412.26-01 101-1231-412.32-01 101-1231-412.53-02 101-1231-412.56-01 101-1231-412.57-01 101-1231-412.61-12 101-1231-412.74-03 101-1231-412.80-98 101-1231-412.90-03 Account Description Regular Wages Part-time Wages Overtime Wages Employee Group Health Ins Employee Group Dental Ins Social Sec & Medicare State & Police Retirement Workers Compensation Training & Prof Develop Mobile & Cell Phones Membership Fees Travel Communications Supplies Furniture and Fixtures Miscellaneous Transfer to Other SRF General Fund Total FY 03/04 Actual 112,959 0 72 14,946 518 8,489 8,401 0 1,065 0 95 3,247 0 0 0 0 149,792 FY 04/05 Actual 113,328 0 85 17,688 812 7,980 7,721 0 1,765 727 95 3,598 64 0 500 0 154,362 FY 05/06 Budget 118,039 0 0 18,333 563 9,064 9,047 2,741 1,065 0 95 4,593 0 0 0 0 163,540 FY 06/07 Approved 115,380 0 0 16,864 563 7,821 9,341 1,902 1,765 0 95 3,893 0 0 0 0 157,624 Dorchester County 144 JUVENILE JUSTICE - 1240 DESCRIPTION The Department of Juvenile Justice provides for a continuum of effective interventions that enables juveniles to become responsible, productive citizens and fosters safe and healthy communities. SERVICE AREAS Dorchester County Mental Health: Provides counseling for juveniles and family as well as group counseling. Dorchester County Drug and Alcohol Commission: Provides counseling to juveniles, drug screenings as well as some family counseling through the Drug and Alcohol Commission. Family Intensive Services: Juvenile Justice provides WRAP services in the home to help the family as well as the individual juvenile adapt to the home situations. Program Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ FY04 Actual 0 0 27,161 27,161 $ FY05 Actual 0 0 26,755 26,755 $ FY06 Budget 0 0 27,325 27,325 $ FY07 Approved 0 0 27,325 27,325 $ Change 0 0 - $ $ $ $ $ Expenditure Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $27,400 $27,300 $27,200 $27,100 $27,000 $26,900 $26,800 $26,700 $26,600 $26,500 $26,400 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 Dorchester County 145 JUVENILE JUSTICE - 1240 FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR FY 2007: Operating expenditures reflect no change. Dorchester County provides operating funds for office space and utilities for Juvenile Justice. OBJECT 44-01 62-01 Funding for lease on Cedar Street for 12 months. Funding for utility charges for 12 months. Juvenile Justice Account Number 101-1240-412.44-01 101-1240-412.62-01 Account Description Rentals and Leases Electricity General Fund Total FY 03/04 Actual 23,700 3,461 27,161 FY 04/05 Actual 23,800 2,955 26,755 FY 05/06 Budget 24,000 3,325 27,325 FY 06/07 Approved 24,000 3,325 27,325 Dorchester County 146 MAGISTRATE - 1252 DESCRIPTION The Magistrate's Court seeks to provide the citizens of Dorchester County with a well-run, efficient court system, utilize the newest technology available to streamline its operations, and assist other county agencies. Judges and staff are constantly increasing their training and level of expertise by attending seminars and schools offered by the South Carolina Court Administration. GOALS Chief Justice Jean Toal is seeking to have all Magistrates’ Courts state wide on the Case Management System in approximately two years. An increase in civil jurisdiction of $15,000 is being discussed in the General Assembly. SERVICE AREAS Jurisdiction: Magistrate's have jurisdiction over criminal offenses that are subject to the penalty of a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days, all civil matters involving disputes of $7,500 or less, all landlord-tenant eviction matters, traffic matters on infractions occurring within Dorchester County, and restraining orders. Duties: Magistrates are responsible for setting bail, conducting preliminary hearings, issuing arrest and search warrants, conducting jury trials when requested, issuing bench warrants, and collecting outstanding fine payments to the court. All scheduling, notifying, filing, tracking, data entry, involved in each case is handled by the staff. Financial Duties: Magistrate's Court receipts, deposits, and disburses all filing fees, fines, and collections of monies to the Dorchester County Treasurer and other agencies as mandated by various state laws in the manner specified from each judges bank account on a monthly basis. Responsibilities: At least one Magistrate must be on duty, available to do arrest warrants, bond hearings twice daily, search warrants, and any emergency hearings necessary on a 24 hour a day basis. A duty list is posted with the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office at all times so they can call the duty Magistrate assigned by the Chief Magistrate. Magistrates preside over court hearings involving Civil, Criminal and Traffic matters. Dorchester County 147 MAGISTRATE - 1252 Departmental Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Charges and Fees Fines and Penalties TOTAL REVENUES Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ $ $ FY04 Actual 14 8 213,534 690,703 904,237 756,635 111,134 867,769 $ $ $ FY05 Actual 14 8 215,786 733,151 948,937 776,399 74,321 850,720 $ $ $ FY06 Budget 15 10 195,020 720,250 915,270 858,122 75,644 933,766 $ $ $ FY07 Approved 15 10 124,532 629,191 753,723 824,036 83,561 907,597 $ Change 0 0 (70,488) (91,059) $ (161,547) $ (34,086) 7,917 (26,169) $ $ $ $ $ Expenditure Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $940,000 $920,000 $900,000 $880,000 $860,000 $840,000 $820,000 $800,000 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR FY 2007: Personnel expenditures reflect a decrease in part-time wages that is partially offset by COLA and merit pay increases for the incumbents. Operating expenditures reflect an increase in court personnel, travel, and fuel and oil to fund an increase in the Magistrates’ jurisdiction. OBJECT 11-01 Funding adopted for 15 full-time positions (Chief Magistrate, 2 Magistrate Court Coordinators, 5 Court Administrators, 3 Senior Court Clerks, 2 Court Clerks, 1 Constable, and 1 FT Magistrate). Funding adopted for 11 part-time positions (6 Magistrates and 5 Constables). 11-02 Dorchester County 148 MAGISTRATE - 1252 31-02 32-01 33-09 43-01 43-03 44-01 52-01 53-01 53-06 53-07 55-01 56-01 57-01 Funding for jurors and witnesses who appear in connection with jury trials. Funding for instructional classes, required schools for judges and staff. Other Professional / Other (Interpreters) Funding for service contracts on typewriters, copy machines and postage machines. Funding for equipment repairs & maintenance. Includes rental on 2 copy machines. Funding for fiduciary bonds on judges and clerks in the Magistrate’s office. Communications / Data Processing (Televideo Lines) Funding for mailing court notices, summons, any court related correspondence. Includes long distance charges only. Funding for printing of all court related forms, receipts, envelopes, etc. Funding for required membership fees. This line item has been reduced due to the purchase of 2 vehicles for use by the process servers to serve papers. Includes general office supplies such as pens, paper, envelopes, stationary, tapes, etc. Funding for mandated computer program and support ($1,000). Includes funding for 2 copies of yearly volume of SC Rules of Court and 2 Blue Area cross directories for reference. 61-01 61-06 64-01 Dorchester County 149 MAGISTRATE - 1252 Performance Indicators Civil Cases Filed/Processed Traffic Cases Processed Criminal Cases Processed Bench Warrants Issued Bond Hearings Conducted Arrest Warrants Issued Jury Trials-(Calendar Year) Preliminary Hearings FY04 Actual 5,600 22,000 4,500 700 4,000 4,600 480 FY05 Actual 7,000 20,000 4,200 700 4,000 4,700 500 450 FY06 Estimated 7,500 22,000 4,500 720 4,000 4,800 500 475 FY07 Projected 8,000 23,000 4,800 750 4,200 5,000 550 500 Dorchester County 150 MAGISTRATE - 1252 Magistrates Account Number 101-1252-412.11-01 101-1252-412.11-02 101-1252-412.13-01 101-1252-412.21-01 101-1252-412.21-02 101-1252-412.22-01 101-1252-412.23-01 101-1252-412.26-01 101-1252-412.31-02 101-1252-412.32-01 101-1252-412.33-09 101-1252-412.34-01 101-1252-412.43-01 101-1252-412.44-01 101-1252-412.52-01 101-1252-412.53-01 101-1252-412.53-02 101-1252-412.53-06 101-1252-412.53-07 101-1252-412.55-01 101-1252-412.56-01 101-1252-412.57-01 101-1252-412.61-01 101-1252-412.61-06 101-1252-412.61-07 101-1252-412.61-08 101-1252-412.61-12 101-1252-412.61-55 101-1252-412.62-02 101-1252-412.64-01 Account Description Regular Wages Part-time Wages Overtime Wages Employee Group Health Ins Employee Group Dental Ins Social Sec & Medicare State & Police Retirement Workers Compensation Court Personnel Training & Prof Develop Other Application Development Maint & Service Contracts Rentals and Leases Insurance Data Processing Mobile & Cell Phones Postage Telephone Printing and Binding Membership Fees Travel Office Supplies Computer Software Computer Equipment Furniture & Fixtures Communications Supplies Uniforms and Clothing Fuel and Oil Books & Periodicals General Fund Total FY 03/04 Actual 436,047 181,238 839 50,063 2,089 43,322 43,036 0 13,973 1,980 0 0 1,077 4,535 3,640 0 0 10,982 295 3,968 300 56,225 13,263 0 0 0 0 0 0 896 867,769 FY 04/05 Actual 444,310 181,282 0 54,581 3,062 45,717 47,447 0 16,638 2,100 0 0 421 3,565 3,402 0 2,104 10,416 152 5,390 450 15,457 9,870 1,755 0 0 59 0 1,869 676 850,720 FY 05/06 Budget 488,228 189,582 0 61,307 2,343 52,495 55,199 8,968 14,000 5,300 0 0 1,200 4,000 4,500 0 2,880 10,000 1,000 5,950 600 10,667 10,900 2,000 0 0 0 0 2,247 400 933,766 FY 06/07 Approved 476,136 181,492 0 57,929 2,110 46,368 53,549 6,452 16,000 2,600 2,500 0 425 3,600 3,400 4,000 2,100 11,000 175 5,400 450 16,400 9,500 1,000 0 0 75 0 4,536 400 907,597 Dorchester County 151 MASTER IN EQUITY - 1254 DESCRIPTION The Master in Equity is part of the South Carolina Unified Court System and serves as judge for civil non-jury lawsuits filed in Circuit Court for Dorchester County. The Master in Equity also serves as Special Circuit Judge. He adjudicates trials, motions and other hearings and orders or conducts administrative actions that resolve legal issues confronting the County's citizens. GOALS 1. Research the law, deliberate upon the facts and argument presented in trial, and render decisions. 2. Review and sign orders for judgment by default and administrative orders. 3. Prepare a monthly report to the South Carolina Court Administration giving the number of cases disposed of and the number of cases still pending. Review this report to monitor progress on the timely disposition of cases. 4. Attend mandatory continuing legal education seminars to remain current on pertinent developments and to remain licensed to practice law. SERVICE AREAS Referred Cases: The Master hears and rules upon Circuit Court Common Pleas cases referred for decision such as real estate and business cases, injunctions, default cases with unliquidated damages, supplementary proceedings and cases referred by consent of all parties. He researches law, deliberates upon evidence and arguments presented at hearings, renders decisions and writes orders. Non-Jury Common Pleas Court: As Special Circuit Judge, the Master hears and rules upon motions pending in jury and non-jury civil cases and conducts trials on the merits of non-jury civil cases. He researches, deliberates and issues orders. His department determines which matters are pending with the Clerk of Court. His department then coordinates scheduling hearings and generates notices of hearings on the pending matters and schedules use of a courtroom. Auctions of Real Property: The Master conducts judicial auctions the first Tuesday of each month at the Dorchester County Courthouse in St. George. For mortgage foreclosures seeking a deficiency judgment, he holds the auction open, closing it thirty days later. His department produces a list of properties to be auctioned and instructs potential bidders about the auction rules. It posts the instructions and the property list on its page on the county's website. Master's Deeds: The Master executes and delivers Master's Deeds conveying title to real property to successful bidders at the public auctions. If appropriate under the circumstances, he executes and delivers Master's Deeds to parties to suits that establish their legal interests in real property. His department instructs parties about the content of the deed and where to file it. Dorchester County 152 MASTER IN EQUITY - 1254 Administrative Orders: As Special Circuit Judge, the Master reviews and signs assorted administrative orders requiring no hearing. These include orders such as judgments by default for liquidated damages, orders to change venue, orders to dismiss, and entries of default. Disposition of Cases: This department monitors the progress of all cases referred to the Master by reviewing the Clerk of Court's records and the Common Pleas Audit report on the status of cases, produces monthly reports on the number of cases disposed and pending, makes inquiries to the parties about the status of cases, and implements courses of action to expedite the disposition of cases. Revenue Collection: This department collects, accounts for, and remits to the Treasurer statutory fees and commissions related to cases referred to the Master in Equity. It collects, accounts for, and remits to mortgage companies net sale proceeds from the public auction. It issues notices about any surplus funds, receives and deliberates upon claims for such funds, conducts hearings as necessary to accept proof of entitlement to such funds and disburses the funds to the parties entitled to them. Departmental Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Charges and Fees TOTAL REVENUES Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ $ $ FY04 Actual 2 0 149,106 149,106 107,198 2,730 109,928 $ $ $ FY05 Actual 2 0 207,765 207,765 107,836 2,532 110,368 $ $ $ FY06 Budget 2 0 114,000 114,000 113,513 2,766 116,279 $ $ $ FY07 Approved 2 0 200,000 200,000 128,846 2,766 131,612 $ $ $ Change 0 0 86,000 86,000 15,333 15,333 $ $ $ $ $ Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $135,000 $130,000 $125,000 $120,000 $115,000 $110,000 $105,000 $100,000 $95,000 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 Dorchester County 153 MASTER IN EQUITY - 1254 FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR FY 2007: Personnel expenditures reflect an increase for COLA and merit pay increases for the incumbents. Operating expenditures reflect no change. OBJECT 11-01 Funding adopted for 2 full-time positions (the Master-in-Equity and administrative secretary). Funding for monthly rental on high speed copier. Funding for correspondence to attorneys and parties, Court Administration, and for trial rosters mailed to attorneys for terms of circuit court. Includes long distance charges only. Includes mileage for trips between Summerville and St. George to auction property, obtain and return official court records, hold court, and attend meetings. Includes funds for routine office supplies. Funding for subscription to Supreme Court opinions published weekly. 44-01 53-06 53-07 57-01 61-01 64-01 Performance Indicators Number of the following: Master in Equity Cases Heard Master in Equity Sales Held Master in Equity Deeds Signed Circuit Court Terms Held Circuit Court Cases and Motions Heard FY04 Actual 413 18 190 5 76 FY05 Actual 376 22 203 5 82 FY06 Estimated 325 22 150 4 80 FY07 Projected 340 22 165 4 80 Dorchester County 154 MASTER IN EQUITY - 1254 Master-in-Equity Account Number 101-1254-412.11-01 101-1254-412.21-01 101-1254-412.21-02 101-1254-412.22-01 101-1254-412.23-01 101-1254-412.26-01 101-1254-412.32-01 101-1254-412.44-01 101-1254-412.53-06 101-1254-412.53-07 101-1254-412.57-01 101-1254-412.61-01 101-1254-412.61-06 101-1254-412.61-08 101-1254-412.64-01 101-1254-414.61-08 Account Description Regular Wages Employee Group Health Ins Employee Group Dental Ins Social Sec & Medicare State & Police Retirement Workers Compensation Training & Prof Develop Rentals and Leases Postage Telephone Travel Office Supplies Computer Software Furniture & Fixtures Books & Periodicals Furniture & Fixtures General Fund Total FY 03/04 Actual 85,462 8,480 212 6,715 6,330 0 0 1,125 171 14 332 913 65 0 110 0 109,928 FY 04/05 Actual 86,063 9,080 210 6,588 5,895 0 0 1,125 176 24 429 648 0 0 130 0 110,368 FY 05/06 Budget 89,762 9,194 141 6,872 6,870 674 0 1,136 200 50 125 475 0 650 130 0 116,279 FY 06/07 Approved 103,131 9,502 141 7,474 8,005 593 0 500 240 50 200 976 0 650 150 0 131,612 Dorchester County 155 PROBATE COURT - 1265 DESCRIPTION The Probate Court is the Judicial and Administrative arm over estates, trusts, conservators, guardianships, marriage licenses and those incapacitated by mental illness, addiction or retardation; presiding over matters according to statute, holding hearings as needed. The Probate Court's mission is to handle matters with competence and compassion while maintaining a docket and allowing for expedient resolution of cases. GOALS 1. To offer seminars in Summerville, with an effort to assist the community with their Probate matters without having to make repeated trips to St. George. 2. To offer seminars in St. George, with an effort to assist the community with their Probate matters. 3. To ensure that hearings are held in a timely fashion (scheduled within 2 months of the initial request). 4. To offer appointments in Summerville once a month, for the opening of new estates. SERVICE AREAS Estate Administration: Opens, administers and closes the estates and/or trusts of every Dorchester County decedent. This includes residents as well as those who live outside the county, but who maintain real estate within our boundaries. Therapeutic Administration (GC Division): Opens, maintains and closes files on all Conservators and Guardians within Dorchester County. Communicates with each appointed person on an annual basis and reviews necessary paperwork. Therapeutic Administration (Commitment Division): Counsels concerned parties as to the appropriate steps in the involuntary commitment process. Administers all commitment files for the mentally ill, drug or alcohol addicted or those incapacitated due to dementia or mental retardation. This Division is on call 24/7 for emergency commitment of those dangerous to themselves or others. Marriage License Division: Issues and records all marriage licenses issued for any person, resident or non-resident, who applies through Dorchester County to be married within South Carolina. Scans and maintains all marriage licenses issued by Dorchester County. Public Records: The Probate Court scans, files, and maintains vital public records stored in its office including marriage licenses, wills, deeds of distribution, and other related documents. The court also ensures that non-public records are maintained in a safe and confidential environment. Judicial Division: Schedules hearings for the Estate and Therapeutic Divisions in order to render judgment in contested matters. Seeks to provide professional and courteous services to those in the midst of a dispute. Deals with all questions of law and evidence, including contact with attorneys. Dorchester County 156 PROBATE COURT - 1265 Departmental Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Licenses and Permits Intergovernmental Charges and Fees TOTAL REVENUES Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ FY04 Actual 6 0 10,460 1,568 100,564 112,592 232,855 26,899 259,754 $ FY05 Actual 6 0 12,640 1,575 142,586 156,801 251,043 32,524 283,567 $ FY06 Budget 6 0 9,600 1,575 88,130 99,305 246,400 34,252 280,652 $ FY07 Approved 6 0 9,600 1,574 138,826 150,000 265,685 34,813 300,498 $ Change 0 0 (1) 50,696 50,695 19,285 561 19,846 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $310,000 $300,000 $290,000 $280,000 $270,000 $260,000 $250,000 $240,000 $230,000 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 FUNDING ADJUSTMENTS FOR FY 2007: Personnel expenditures reflect COLA and merit pay increases for the incumbents. Also included are part-time wages for a new temporary Administrative Assistant. Operating expenditures reflect an increase in postage, travel, and office supplies. OBJECT 11-01 Funding adopted for 6 full-time positions (1 Probate Judge, 1 Associate Judge, 1 Senior Court Clerk, 2 Court Clerks, and a Paralegal). Includes funding for mandatory and optional training of the judge and the employees. Dorchester County 32-01 157 PROBATE COURT - 1265 34-01 Funding for application development for software, maintenance, supplies & training on the shared ROD / Probate Court imaging system. Funding for bond for Probate Judge and the Associate Judge. Postage. Long distance charges. Includes dues for the South Carolina Bar, South Carolina Association of Probate Judges, SC Association of Counties, and the National College of Probate Judges and required membership fees for the Associate Judge. Travel expenses associated with court, training, and commitment hearings. Includes funds needed for office supplies such as forms, paper, printer and computer supplies, folders, labels, pads, pens, etc. Publication, forms and miscellaneous supplies offered at SC Bar events. Funding for S.C. Law CD-ROM updates for one year, LEXIS-NEXIS, and legal supplements. 52-01 53-06 53-07 56-01 57-01 61-01 61-04 64-01 Performance Indicators Estate files opened GC files opened Commitment files opened Marriage licenses issued FY04 Actual 592 46 813 533 FY05 Actual 574 14 710 632 FY06 Estimated 700 60 375 615 FY07 Projected 650 68 380 700 Dorchester County 158 PROBATE COURT - 1265 Probate Court Account Number 101-1265-412.11-01 101-1265-412.11-02 101-1265-412.13-01 101-1265-412.21-01 101-1265-412.21-02 101-1265-412.22-01 101-1265-412.23-01 101-1265-412.26-01 101-1265-412.32-01 101-1265-412.33-01 101-1265-412.34-01 101-1265-412.43-01 101-1265-412.44-01 101-1265-412.52-01 101-1265-412.53-01 101-1265-412.53-02 101-1265-412.53-06 101-1265-412.53-07 101-1265-412.53-08 101-1265-412.54-01 101-1265-412.56-01 101-1265-412.57-01 101-1265-412.61-01 101-1265-412.61-04 101-1265-412.61-06 101-1265-412.61-07 101-1265-412.61-08 101-1265-412.61-12 101-1265-412.62-02 101-1265-412.64-01 101-1265-412.80-03 Account Description Regular Wages Part-time Wages Overtime Wages Employee Group Health Ins Employee Group Dental Ins Social Sec & Medicare State & Police Retirement Workers Compensation Training & Prof Develop Attorneys Application Development Maint & Service Contracts Rentals and Leases Insurance Data Processing Mobile & Cell Phones Postage Telephone Communications Support Advertising Membership Fees Travel Office Supplies Training Supplies Computer Software Computer Equipment Furniture & Fixtures Communications Supplies Fuel and Oil Books & Periodicals Bank Fees and Charges General Fund Total FY 03/04 Actual 185,708 946 21 16,723 771 13,837 14,849 0 1,604 0 7,700 0 1,970 700 0 0 3,525 207 0 0 638 2,988 7,180 0 0 0 0 0 0 387 0 259,754 FY 04/05 Actual 196,132 4,985 0 18,144 1,205 14,780 15,797 0 2,660 0 3,906 0 1,807 700 447 1,037 3,714 159 0 0 1,338 5,139 6,228 0 418 1,461 2,471 0 519 520 0 283,567 FY 05/06 Budget 194,731 0 0 17,819 844 14,912 16,861 1,233 2,600 0 6,640 0 2,500 700 0 1,440 3,600 220 0 0 1,200 6,360 5,300 160 0 0 1,400 60 572 1,500 0 280,652 FY 06/07 Approved 207,232 4,930 0 18,373 844 14,916 18,450 940 2,600 0 3,500 190 2,000 700 20 1,440 4,000 200 200 0 1,400 8,500 7,200 160 0 0 540 50 563 1,500 50 300,498 Dorchester County 159 SOLICITOR - 1280 DESCRIPTION The First Judicial Circuit Solicitor's office is responsible for the prosecution of all general sessions criminal offenses as well as all juvenile offenders in Dorchester, Orangeburg, and Calhoun Counties. This account pays for Dorchester County's share of the expenses needed for the Solicitor to operate. GOALS Dispose of General Sessions cases within 180 days of receipt of the arrest warrants. SERVICE AREAS General Sessions Cases: The Solicitor's office strives to dispose of General Sessions cases within 180 days of receipt of the arrest warrants. Juvenile adjudications: The Solicitor's office handles many juvenile adjudications. Departmental Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Charges and Fees TOTAL REVENUES Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ $ $ FY04 Actual 0 0 456,732 456,732 $ $ $ FY05 Actual 0 0 6,888 6,888 500,217 500,217 $ $ $ FY06 Budget 0 0 500,176 500,176 $ $ $ FY07 Approved 0 0 24,000 24,000 600,176 600,176 $ $ $ Change 0 0 24,000 24,000 100,000 100,000 $ $ $ $ $ Expenditure Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $700,000 $600,000 $500,000 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 Dorchester County 160 SOLICITOR - 1280 FUNDING ADJUSTMENT FOR FY 2007: Operating expenditures reflect an increase in Direct Assistance. OBJECT 43-01 44-01 80-85 Solicitor Account Number 101-1280-412.41-02 101-1280-412.42-01 101-1280-412.43-01 101-1280-412.44-01 101-1280-412.80-85 Account Description Cable Services Custodial-janitorial Maint & Service Contracts Rentals and Leases Direct Assistance General Fund Total Funding for cleaning the Solicitor's office in Summerville. Funding for rental of the Solicitor's office in Summerville. Funding for Dorchester County's portion of the Solicitor function FY 03/04 Actual 0 0 2,065 16,347 438,320 456,732 FY 04/05 Actual 0 0 1,715 16,350 482,152 500,217 FY 05/06 Budget 0 1,680 0 16,344 482,152 500,176 FY 06/07 Approved 0 1,680 0 16,350 582,146 600,176 Dorchester County 161 SOLICITOR - 1280 SPECIAL REVENUE FUND (370) FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY DESCRIPTION The First Judicial Circuit Solicitor's office is responsible for the prosecution of all general sessions criminal offenses as well as all juvenile offenders in Dorchester, Orangeburg, and Calhoun Counties. In addition to the traditional methods of conviction and punishment, the Solicitor’s Office also administers administrative and diversion programs such as Pre-Trial Intervention, Juvenile Arbitration, and the Worthless Check program. These programs are alternatives to conviction and sentencing and attempt to serve the same underlying policies of traditional criminal justice methods. Furthermore, these programs are designed to supplement the Solicitor’s operating budget to ease the burden to taxpayers. Program Summary: Positions: (PFT) (PT) Intergovernmental Interest Miscellaneous TOTAL REVENUES Interfund Transfer In TOTAL SOURCES Personnel Operating Capital TOTAL EXPENDITURES Interfund Transfer Out TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS FY04 Actual 0 0 $ 1,425,107 (19,925) 1,405,182 473,320 $ 1,878,502 $ 1,504,679 214,006 1,718,685 59,343 $ 1,778,028 FY05 Actual 0 0 $ 1,257,854 465 1,258,319 486,701 $ 1,745,020 $ 1,417,416 153,603 1,571,019 123,007 $ 1,694,026 $ $ 50,994 (77,736) (26,742) FY06 Budget 0 0 $ 1,545,773 173,672 1,719,445 $ 1,719,445 $ 1,461,947 177,100 1,000 1,640,047 79,398 $ 1,719,445 $ $ (26,742) (26,742) FY07 Approved 0 0 $ 2,027,142 2,027,142 $ 2,027,142 $ 1,785,126 213,260 1,998,386 $ 1,998,386 $ $ 28,756 (26,742) 2,014 $ $ $ $ $ $ Change 0 0 481,369 (173,672) 307,697 307,697 323,179 36,160 (1,000) 358,339 (79,398) 278,941 28,756 28,756 Increase (Use) of Fund Balance $ 100,474 Beginning Fund Balance (178,210) Ending Fund Balance $ (77,736) Dorchester County 162 SOLICITOR - 1280 SPECIAL REVENUE FUND (370) Expenditure Budget Comparison FY 04-07 $2,000 $1,950 $1,900 $1,850 $1,800 $1,750 $1,700 $1,650 $1,600 $1,550 $1,500 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 Personnel expenditures are projected by Dorchester Count Personnel Department. The operating budget expenditures are projected by the First Circuit Solicitor’s Office. Solicitor Account Number Account Description FY 03/04 Actual FY 04/05 Actual FY 05/06 Budget FY 06/07 Approved 370-1280-412.11-01 370-1280-412.11-02 370-1280-412.21-01 370-1280-412.21-02 370-1280-412.22-01 370-1280-412.23-01 370-1280-412.26-01 Regular Wages Part-time Wages Employee Group Health Ins Employee Group Dental Ins Social Sec & Medicare State & Police Retirement Workers Compensation Special Revenue Fund Thousands 1,243,465 12,209 72,833 3,393 89,342 83,437 0 1,504,679 1,141,771 6,229 97,211 5,535 84,596 82,074 0 1,417,415 1,200,577 14,800 68,208 4,078 91,844 82,240 8,000 1,469,747 1,411,696 25,000 120,000 5,202 107,995 105,108 10,125 1,785,126 Dorchester County 163 This Page Intentionally Left Blank 164