South Carolina Chief Justice Blasts Equal Parenting Bill

April 6, 2026 - 18:22

In a rare and forceful public critique, South Carolina Chief Justice John Kittredge has denounced pending equal parenting legislation, arguing it would create significant harm for the state's children and families. His remarks have ignited a fierce debate at the State House, drawing a swift political rebuke from newly minted gubernatorial candidate Rom Reddy.

The proposed bill aims to establish a presumption of equally shared physical custody in divorce and separation cases. Proponents argue this legal standard prioritizes a child's right to maintain strong bonds with both parents, barring evidence of abuse or unfitness.

Justice Kittredge, speaking from his extensive experience in family court, vehemently disagrees. He contends that a rigid fifty-fifty mandate would strip judges of the necessary discretion to consider the unique circumstances of each family. He warned the bill would force courts into applying a one-size-fits-all solution, potentially placing children in unstable or high-conflict situations simply to meet a mathematical division of time.

"This legislation is well-intentioned but misguided," Kittredge stated. "It substitutes the informed judgment of our family court judges for an arbitrary legislative formula. The best interest of the child must remain the flexible, paramount standard, not a presumption of equal time."

The Chief Justice's stark warning adds considerable judicial weight to an already contentious political fight, ensuring the bill will face intense scrutiny as it moves through the legislative process.