The council of each municipality may, by ordinance, establish a district court to hear and decide all matters within its jurisdiction. These courts are part of the unified judicial system. It should be noted, however, that a municipality may, after prior consultation with the district administration, continue its affairs before a district court instead of establishing its own district court. In addition, the council may establish a district court by decree and enter into a contract with the district administrative authority for the services of a magistrate as a municipal judge. The Chief Justice, in accordance with his powers as the administrative head of the unified judicial system, would delegate to the Chief Justice of the County Summary Court the appointment of a particular judge as a municipal judge. Each municipal judge must pass a recertification examination within eight years of passing the initial examination and at least every eight years thereafter. District courts have jurisdiction over matters arising from municipal ordinances and all crimes punishable by a fine of up to $500.00 or imprisonment for up to 30 days, or both, that occur in the municipality. In addition, article 22-3-545 of the Code of the Republic of Korea provides that district courts may hear cases broadcast from general hearings with a penalty not exceeding one year`s imprisonment or a fine of US$ 5,000 or both, at the request of the lawyer and with the consent of the defendant. The powers and duties of a district judge are the same as those of a criminal judge; However, the district courts do not have jurisdiction over civil law. The term of office of a municipal judge shall be determined by the municipal council, but may not exceed four years. About 200 municipalities in South Carolina have chosen to establish county courts. All municipal judges must complete a training program or pass certification or recertification exams, or both, within one year of taking office. See S.C.
Code Ann. § 14-25-15 and Rule 509, SCACR. The exam is offered three times a year. Members of the South Carolina Bar are exempt from the examination; However, you must participate in the orientation program.