Opinion ID: 1248456
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: guardian ad litem fee

Text: The Family Court awarded Jonathan's guardian ad litem $1,125 in fees, of which Department is required to pay $750. Department concedes that the guardian ad litem's fee may be assessed in an adoption proceeding, but contends no authority exists for its assessment in an action brought against Department in which it prevails. We disagree. Department's contention that costs may be charged against the State and its agencies only as provided in S.C. Code Ann. § 15-37-200 (1976), which allows such costs in civil actions prosecuted in the name of the State, is without merit. In addition to its liability under § 15-37-200 the State may be assessed costs the same as any other defendant. See, Sawyer v. State Highway Dep't , 164 S.C. 53, 161 S.E. 883 (1932). Department's further contention that no authority exists for assessment of costs against the prevailing party is equally without merit. Under S.C. Code Ann. § 15-37-10 (1976), in equity cases there is no mandate that costs be taxed against the losing party; liability for costs is in the court's discretion. South Orange Trust Co. v. Conner , 228 S.C. 218, 89 S.E. (2d) 372 (1955); Cauthen v. Cauthen , 81 S.C. 313, 62 S.E. 319 (1908). Department, relying upon South Carolina Dep't of Social Services v. Hyatt , 277 S.C. 152, 283 S.E. (2d) 445 (1981), contends that the $1,125 fee is excessive. After enumerating factors to be considered in setting a guardian ad litem fee, Hyatt concluded that, absent extraordinary circumstances, a $50 fee is reasonable. The record demonstrates the complexity of this litigation, so that an award greater than $50 is clearly warranted. We hold, however, that the amount here was excessive and reduce to $750, of which Department shall pay $375. Affirmed in part; reversed in part. GREGORY, C.J., and HARWELL, FINNEY and TOAL, JJ., concur.