Permanent Restraining Orders are available to victims of or witnesses to certain crimes at the time of sentencing in General Sessions Court or after sentencing in the Court of Common Pleas. These restraining orders can last for a specific period (such as twenty years), or may last for a lifetime. The following requirements must be met: (1) the crime occurred in South Carolina, (2) the respondent was convicted or plead guilty, and (3) the requestor suffered direct or threatened physical, psychological, or financial harm as a result of the crime. Qualifying crimes include: Harassment, Stalking, Domestic Violence, Criminal Sexual Offenses, and attempts to commit any of the qualifying crimes. These orders forbid the offender from abusing, threatening, or harassing the victim. The quickest way to obtain a Permanent Restraining Order is by talking with the Solicitor so it can be requested at the time of sentencing. If it is not requested at the time of sentencing, the victim can still file a civil action with the Court of Common Pleas.
