In a recent development in military law in South Carolina, significant changes to court martial procedures have been implemented effective immediately. The changes, announced by the state's military authorities on February 18, 2026, are aimed at streamlining the legal process and ensuring fair and efficient trials for all military personnel.One of the key changes introduced is the requirement for all court martial hearings to be presided over by a panel of military judges rather than a single judge. This move is intended to provide a broader perspective and ensure a more impartial decision-making process in each case. Additionally, the new procedures mandate that all court martial proceedings must be recorded and transcribed for the record, allowing for greater transparency and accountability in military trials.Furthermore, the updated military law in South Carolina now allows for the participation of civilian lawyers in court martial proceedings. While military lawyers continue to play a central role in defending and prosecuting cases, the inclusion of civilian legal experts is expected to enhance the quality of legal representation and ensure that the rights of military personnel are fully protected during the trial process.In response to these changes, Brigadier General Sarah Thompson, the commanding officer of the South Carolina National Guard, stated, "We believe that these updates to our court martial procedures will strengthen the integrity of our military justice system and better serve the needs of our service members. By implementing these reforms, we are reaffirming our commitment to upholding the highest standards of fairness and due process in all legal proceedings within our ranks."The announcement of the new court martial procedures comes in the wake of ongoing efforts to modernize and improve military laws and regulations in South Carolina. Authorities have indicated that further updates and revisions may be forthcoming in the near future as part of ongoing efforts to ensure a more efficient and effective legal framework for the state's military personnel.Overall, the changes to court martial procedures in South Carolina represent a significant step towards enhancing the legal rights and protections afforded to military personnel in the state. As these reforms are implemented and enforced, military authorities are hopeful that the integrity and fairness of the military justice system will be further strengthened, ultimately benefiting both service members and the public at large.