The legal landscape in South Carolina is always evolving, and 2025 has brought several important changes. From new traffic safety rules to updates in how courts handle liability, South Carolinians, whether business owners, drivers, or families, need to stay informed. Understanding the legal shifts helps protect your rights and prepares you to make smart decisions when the unexpected happens.

Legal Trends South Carolina Residents Should Know

Let’s walk through some of the key legal changes and emerging topics that could impact you or your business this year and beyond.

Hands-Free Driving Now the Law in South Carolina

Starting September 1, 2025, South Carolina drivers are no longer allowed to hold a phone while operating a vehicle. This hands-free driving law is a big step toward improving road safety across the state. Drivers can still use voice commands or mounted devices, but holding a phone, even at a red light, can now result in fines and points on your license.

For personal injury cases, this law could affect liability. If a driver was holding a phone during a crash, that could be seen as negligence. This change makes it even more important to document accidents thoroughly and contact an attorney early if you’ve been injured in a wreck.

Tort Reform and Liquor Liability: Act 42

Also new this year is Act 42, South Carolina’s updated tort reform law. It changes how courts handle lawsuits involving alcohol-related injuries. For example, businesses that serve alcohol can now be held to different insurance standards and liability limits.

If you’re a business owner, especially in hospitality, this is a key legal trend to watch. The law could impact how you carry insurance, train your staff, and handle risky situations. Property owners and individuals who host events where alcohol is served should also understand their risks under the new rules.

Employment Law Shifts

Changes in the workplace continue to make headlines. South Carolina is seeing updates to how employers must handle things like discrimination claims, non-compete agreements, and wage transparency. National conversations around paid leave, hybrid work, and workplace surveillance are also starting to shape local policies.

If you run a business or are navigating an issue with your employer, staying on top of these employment-law updates is key. The best way to protect your interests is to talk to a local attorney who understands how these changes play out in South Carolina courts.

AI in Law Practice and Regulation

Artificial intelligence is showing up more and more in the legal world. Some law firms use AI tools for reviewing documents, answering basic questions, or helping with legal research. While this can save time, it also raises questions about accuracy, ethics, and accountability.

South Carolina attorneys must follow strict professional conduct rules. If AI is used, it must be supervised properly and can’t replace the judgment of a licensed lawyer. At Winslow Law, we believe technology is helpful, but only when paired with real community-based legal advice. You deserve both speed and experience.

Federal and State Tax Considerations

While the federal estate tax exemption remains high in 2025, changes could be coming. Many families in South Carolina are also facing new property tax assessments, local estate laws, and questions about how to plan ahead. Whether you own a second home in Myrtle Beach or are helping a parent manage their assets, understanding how state and federal tax rules interact is important.

Why These Legal Trends Matter

Whether you’re on the road, running a business, planning your estate, or protecting your job, legal changes affect how you live. Being informed helps you avoid costly mistakes. And when it comes time to act, having a trusted local attorney can make all the difference.

Looking for Local Legal Guidance in 2025?

If you have questions about these or other legal changes in South Carolina, our team is here to help. Staying ahead of new laws is what we do, so you don’t have to face them alone.

Winslow Law – Committed counselors for our clients and community.

FAQs

1. What is South Carolina’s new hands-free law and how does it work?

Starting September 1, 2025, South Carolina drivers can no longer hold a phone while operating a motor vehicle. You can still use hands-free technology like Bluetooth or dashboard mounts, but holding the phone, even at stoplights, is now a traffic violation. Penalties include fines and potential points on your license. This law aims to reduce distracted driving accidents.

2. What is Act 42 and who does it affect?

Act 42 is a new South Carolina tort reform law that changes how liability works in alcohol-related injury cases. It increases insurance requirements for businesses that serve alcohol and adjusts how damages are awarded. This affects restaurants, bars, event hosts, and even individuals who serve alcohol at private gatherings.

3. Can AI tools replace my attorney?

AI tools can help speed up some legal processes like reviewing documents or answering general questions, but they can’t replace the knowledge, strategy, and ethical responsibility of a licensed attorney. In South Carolina, only a real attorney can give legal advice or represent you in court. Winslow Law uses helpful tech when appropriate but always gives clients personal, local guidance.