Which court hears direct appeals and writs of cert?

The South Carolina Supreme Court is the correct choice because it functions as the highest court in the state and has the authority to hear direct appeals from lower courts as well as to take on writs of certiorari. This includes reviewing decisions made by the Court of Appeals and Circuit Courts. The Supreme Court's ability to issue writs of certiorari allows it to exercise discretionary review over cases it deems significant or where there may be a need for clarification on legal standards.

In contrast, the SC Court of Appeals primarily handles appeals from Circuit Courts but does not have jurisdiction over writs of certiorari. The Circuit Court serves as the trial court for civil and criminal matters and typically handles the first level of appeals. The Magistrate Court deals with lower-level cases and minor disputes, thus lacking jurisdiction over higher appeals or writs. This hierarchy of courts solidifies the South Carolina Supreme Court's pivotal role in the appeals process within the state's judicial system.