S.C. Code Ann. § 14-5-170

In the event there be no other disengaged circuit judge available to hold such courts, then the Governor shall immediately commission as special judge some person learned in the law, as shall be recommended by the Supreme Court or by the Chief Justice thereof if the Supreme Court be not in session, to hold the courts of any such circuit or to hold any special session thereof which may be ordered by the Chief Justice as aforesaid. Whenever a special judge shall be appointed to hold any court he shall have and exercise all the powers and duties that a regular judge would have if presiding.