(A) On the occasion of any marine disaster or if the South Carolina Commissioners of Pilotage having jurisdiction has reason to believe that a pilot has violated a provision of this chapter or a regulation promulgated under this chapter or if a person files a written complaint with the commissioners having jurisdiction alleging that a pilot has become unfit to practice, the Commissioners of Pilotage may initiate an investigation.

(B) In conducting the investigation, the Commissioners of Pilotage having jurisdiction may subpoena witnesses, compel their attendance, take evidence, and require the production of any matter which is relevant to the investigation including, but not limited to, the existence, description, nature, custody, condition, and location of books, documents, or other tangible items and the identity and location of persons having knowledge of relevant facts or any other matter reasonably calculated to lead to the discovery of material evidence. Upon failure to obey a subpoena or to answer questions propounded by the South Carolina Commissioners of Pilotage having jurisdiction, the department on behalf of the commissioners may apply to the Administrative Law Court for an order requiring the person to comply.

Terms Used In South Carolina Code 54-15-300

  • Answer: The formal written statement by a defendant responding to a civil complaint and setting forth the grounds for defense.
  • Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
  • Discovery: Lawyers' examination, before trial, of facts and documents in possession of the opponents to help the lawyers prepare for trial.
  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
  • Jurisdiction: (1) The legal authority of a court to hear and decide a case. Concurrent jurisdiction exists when two courts have simultaneous responsibility for the same case. (2) The geographic area over which the court has authority to decide cases.
  • Subpoena: A command to a witness to appear and give testimony.
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