From staff reports
The City of Beaufort is advertising openings for two well-qualified Beaufort area attorneys to appoint as municipal judges. But that doesn’t necessarily mean change is coming.
The City has two Municipal Court judges – Ned Tupper and Mary Sharp. They are appointed by City Council to two-year terms. Both of their terms expire in June.
Every two years we advertise, City of Beaufort Communications Manager Kathleen Williams said. She said sitting judges must reapply every two years if they are seeking reappointment.
According to the City’s release, the successful appointees will have a minimum of three to five years of trial experience, will be licensed to practice law in the state of South Carolina, and live and work in the Beaufort area. Municipal experience will be considered a plus.
Municipal Court judges preside over and adjudicate criminal and traffic cases in accordance with established legal procedures; imposing appropriate sentences and penalties as prescribed in the South Carolina Code of Laws. They also preside over bench trials at a minimum of twice a week, and bond hearings twice a day, including holidays and weekends.
In addition, appointees must be available for a minimum of six one-week long jury terms a year. Hours must be flexible to adhere to an on-call schedule as needed and decided by City Council. This position may be considered a contract or salaried position depending on qualifications.
Those interested in this position can send a cover letter, resume, and five references to:
Traci Guldner
City Clerk
City of Beaufort
1911 Boundary Street
Beaufort, SC 29902
Resumes must be delivered or postmarked on/or before May 3, 2024. Staff and Council reviews will occur in May and June.
