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South Carolina is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Like many popular cities, however, our state has a major personal injury problem. Did you know that, in South Carolina, the rate of personal injury cases is 30.21 per 100,000 residents, which is 217% higher than the national average of 9.53?
In fact, personal injury cases account for 36% of the state's entire civil caseload, which is 210% more than the national average proportion. That's the third-highest proportion of personal injury cases in the country, with the average being 11.65% in the United States.
If you've suffered an injury due to someone else's fault, it's safe to say that you're not alone. Like others in your situation, you may be enduring a long, painful recovery process. Unfortunately, recovery is just one of the many concerns you've got to worry about. While you're healing, you're probably also thinking about questions like:
At Bostic Law Group, P.A., we understand the stress and frustration you may be experiencing. Our personal injury attorneys have been helping clients since 2000 by utilizing their extensive experience and knowledge of state and federal personal injury laws to provide much-needed guidance when you need it most. During this difficult time, however, it's critical that you contact a personal injury lawyer in Charleston as soon as possible to start the process of pursuing compensation.
If you've been involved in an accident that left you injured or incapacitated, dealing with legal matters and lawyers is the last thing you want to do. However, having a personal injury lawyer to handle the legal process while you recover can alleviate some of the stress in your life. The legal system in South Carolina can be complicated - especially when it comes to personal injury cases. Fortunately, hiring a personal injury attorney from Bostic Law can relieve the burden of managing your own case. Perhaps more importantly, working with a seasoned personal injury firm can help you get the compensation you need to survive and provide.
As your Charleston accident attorney, our firm will guide you through your rights, the compensation you may be entitled to, and how to pursue it through a customized legal strategy. As the process progresses, our team will keep in touch with you to answer your queries, provide helpful advice when you have concerns, or simply be a friendly professional when you need to talk about your case.
Our attorneys specialize in a wide range of personal injury accidents and cases, including the following:
We provide aggressive legal representation to help you win the compensation you deserve while also offering compassion as you deal with your injuries and other legal matters. Throughout the process, we will act as your advocates and remain committed to providing you with honest and responsive service. And that, in a nutshell, is the Bostic Law difference.
Personal injury cases in South Carolina can happen from a number of different accidents, from car wrecks and wrongful death situations to nursing home negligence and workers' compensation issues. The sheer number of different personal injury cases makes understanding this niche of law particularly exhaustive - especially in The Palmetto State. But that doesn't change the fact that you should be educated on the topic if you have been injured due to no fault of your own.
To help you establish a solid foundation of knowledge on the subject, keep reading this article, which covers some of the laws governing personal injury cases in South Carolina and the steps you can take to protect your rights.
While some cases may share similarities, any personal injury attorney in Charleston, SC, who says your case is exactly the same as someone else's isn't being truthful. There are several factors that come into play when determining the value of a case. These can include medical expenses, lost wages, permanent injury, the need for future medical care, where the incident occurred, and witness statements.
However, two particular factors have the most significant impact on the case's value: the defendant's behavior and the character of our client. Liability drives damages, while credibility is an essential asset for any client. No matter how skilled their attorney may be, a client's credibility and likability can greatly affect the outcome of the case. It's crucial to be open and honest with your attorney from the beginning so that they can help you overcome any obstacles that may arise during the case.
Did you know that insurance companies in the United States have spent millions of dollars stereotyping personal injury victims and the attorneys who represent them? Moreover, some people fake injuries, which can prejudice jurors against those who have actually been harmed. Despite those unfortunate facts, one truth remains: Horrible accidents occur every day, tragedies affect every community in our state, and families are left to deal with nothing but questions in the aftermath.
When tragedy strikes, it doesn't discriminate based on race, ethnicity, location, or profession. As such, South Carolina personal injury laws treat everyone equally. If you've been hurt because of someone else's carelessness, you have the right to hold them accountable both legally and financially, regardless of your background.
As they say, "It's not what you know; it's what you can prove." That saying is especially true in today's day and age. In order to receive full compensation for accident claims in South Carolina, it's not enough to just have physical harm, medical bills, and ongoing pain. As your personal injury lawyers, we must establish additional elements of the case and provide proof to answer a number of questions before an insurance carrier or jury will make you whole.
Some of the questions we must provide answers to include:
Dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to personal injury cases. Though the questions listed above may seem simple and their answers straightforward, insurance companies will dispute the value of your case for any reason they can find. But don't be discouraged. At Bostic Law, our personal injury lawyers have spent entire careers helping people overcome the challenges you're facing, and they're readily available to help you, too.
It's important to have insurance, especially if you get injured. With health insurance, you can receive medical treatment that you may not otherwise be able to afford. If you've been in an accident, we'll work to make sure the insurance company of the person at fault pays for your medical expenses. Medical expenses are defined by the true cost of the treatment you receive, not just what you pay out of pocket.
For instance, if your co-pays are $400 but your medical care costs $11,500, our state's personal injury laws guarantee that you'll get the full $11,500, not just your out-of-pocket expenses.
If the other party in your case cannot be proven to have been negligent, careless, reckless, or willful in some way, South Carolina law does not allow you to receive compensation. Negligence can be easily demonstrated at times, such as when a doctor forgets to remove a surgical tool from your body or when a texting driver hits someone from behind.
Liability can be disputed in other cases, such as when the other driver claims that the person swerved into their lane during a crash, or when a product manufacturer argues that an injury occurred due to improper use. In such cases, a personal injury lawyer can assist in identifying independent witnesses and experts who can establish that someone else is responsible for your injuries
Once an attorney in your case shows that the other party is liable for your injuries, they must then prove that their negligence is behind those injuries. As an example, suppose you have a previous history of back pain, and a short time later, you get in a rear-end collision. In such a situation, an insurance company may contend that your preexisting condition - and not the collision - is the reason behind your current back pain.
To counter their argument, we may require your doctor's testimony to verify that the accident aggravated your back pain, leading to medical attention. Additionally, we may ask your friends and family to describe any changes in your physical activity after the crash to further establish the difference in your condition and prove that it was caused by the accident.
If you have been unable to work for a period of time due to an accident, or if your injuries will affect your future earning potential, you are entitled to compensation for lost income. This includes both the wages you have already lost and the amount you will lose over your lifetime as a result of someone else's negligence. It is important that insurance companies do not underestimate or ignore these damages when negotiating a settlement.
It's critically important that you understand every aspect of your personal injury case before you settle or accept an insurance company's offer. Once you sign on the dotted line and approve a release, you won't qualify for further payments, even if you need more medical attention. That's why it's so important to work with a personal injury law firm like Bostic Law.
We'll evaluate your case for free to help you better understand the challenges ahead. When the insurance companies try to squirm out of covering your injuries, we'll fight to protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
Now that you have the information above to help fortify your foundation of knowledge, let's take a look at some of our personal injury specialties at Bostic Law Group, P.A.
According to state records, out of the 3.9 million licensed motorists in South Carolina, close to 219 thousand were involved in auto accidents in 2019. If you were to account for those not licensed in the state, you would find that 1 in 20 drivers got in an auto wreck - about 5.6% of all motorists. Those statistics are staggering, and they seem to be getting worse.
Fortunately, in South Carolina, the law says that personal injury victims are entitled to compensation that covers the full extent of their injuries. Why? Because the purpose of auto injury compensation is to help the victim return to the life they had before their accident. Of course, in reality, that's easier said than done. Truly recovering from an auto accident - both physically and mentally - is quite rare.
The unfortunate truth is that it's not possible for personal injury laws in South Carolina to reverse or even account for the trials and tribulations you face due to auto accident injuries. But there's light at the end of the tunnel.
By hiring a personal injury lawyer in Charleston, SC, you can receive financial compensation that equals those damages. How much money can you get? Every personal injury case is different. In general, however, personal injury victims are often compensated for needs and expenses such as:
Whether you or one of your loved ones is injured because of an auto accident, contact Bostic Law Group today to speak with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers. The quicker you call, the faster we can dig into your case and begin fighting for your right to compensation.
At Bostic Law, one of the most common questions we receive is what auto accident victims should do on the scene after they've been in a South Carolina car wreck. Being involved in an auto accident is harrowing and stressful, but it's crucial for you to remain as calm as possible in the immediate aftermath. Once you collect yourself, it's time to focus on a few very important steps that can affect whether or not you obtain reasonable compensation for any injuries you sustain.
If possible, have every car involved in your car accident move to a safe space away from traffic. Common options include moving to the shoulder of the highway or road or to a safe parking lot.
Once you move out of traffic, turn on your hazard lights to make your vehicle more noticeable. This helps prevent you from being hit by other cars that are passing you.
If anyone has been injured in the car wreck, make sure you call medical services. If you aren't sure if you or anyone else is hurt, it's always best to err on the side of safety and call an ambulance anyway.
Regardless of how serious your car wreck is, you should contact the police. Calling law enforcement helps ensure that a police report is written and recorded. Make sure to take this step even if you believe that the officer on the scene attributed blame to the wrong motorist.
Once you have called the cops, it's time to collect information. Try to collect the following:
Take photos of your car and any other vehicles that may have been involved in your car wreck. Try to snap photos from varying angles if it's safe to do so.
Your parents probably raised you to apologize for something that you may believe is your fault. When you're involved in a car wreck, do not ever apologize or admit that anything was your fault.
Can you smell alcohol on the breath of the person who hit you? Does it sound like they're slurring their words? Are they stumbling around? These are red flags that you should make a note of because they could help indicate whether the other driver was intoxicated when they hit you.
If you've been involved in a car accident in South Carolina and need help in seeking a fair recovery from your insurance company, The Bostic Law Group, P.A., is here for you. We specialize in personal injury and auto accident cases in South Carolina. When you hire a personal injury attorney in Charleston, SC, from Bostic Law, you can rest easy knowing you're in seasoned, capable hands.
Contact our office immediately for a legal consultation if you have any questions about your case. We take pride in serving our community and want to ensure that you receive the assistance you need to obtain a full, fair recovery after your auto accident.
Getting injured on the job isn't just painful - it can be a source of stress, anxiety, and mental anguish too. Nobody wants to feel like they can't put food on the table because they can't go to work. Sadly, in South Carolina, 30,300 workplace injuries and illnesses were reported.
Employees who are injured at work are generally eligible for benefits under state and federal workers' compensation programs. South Carolina's workers' compensation program provides compensation for medical expenses related to the injury and disability benefits if necessary. Additionally, in the event that an employee is unable to return to work immediately after an accident, they can receive a portion of their regular wages as they recover.
But getting the workers' compensation you rightly deserve isn't always easy. That's why it's so important to have a personal injury lawyer by your side.
While South Carolina's workers' compensation program seems great when you're hurt at work, recovering those benefits can be difficult. That's especially true if you're trying to recover and heal from your injuries at the same time. A personal injury attorney can help accomplish that task for you, even when you're facing tough scenarios such as:
At Bostic Law Group, P.A., our workers' compensation lawyers in Charleston understand the significance of workers' compensation benefits for you, your family, and your financial stability. We strive to provide you with the detailed guidance and assistance required to file a successful claim or appeal a denied one.
With more than 25 years of experience in handling worker's compensation cases, we're ready and willing to answer your questions and help you get the benefits you need.
Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a human can endure. Their loss leaves what seems to be a giant hole that can never truly be filled. To make matters worse, grief is often compounded by confusion and anger when you learn that your loved one died because of an accident caused by negligence or carelessness. At Bostic Law Group, P.A., our attorneys understand the distress you feel after losing a loved one in an accident.
On both a human and professional level, we believe that you and your family shouldn't suffer alone. That's why, during this trying time, we're here to provide reliable help and healing when you need it most.
Losing a loved one can never be compensated for with money. However, it can be helpful to seek compensation through a wrongful death suit to avoid financial difficulties in the future. Pursuing compensation can enable your family to be in a better position to focus on healing emotionally.
According to laws in South Carolina and the United States, you might be eligible to pursue compensation for your family's losses. Some of the most common types of wrongful death compensation include:
By holding the negligent party accountable for their actions, you may also be able to prevent another family from enduring the same heartache yours has experienced. Whether you're the deceased's child, spouse, parent, or heir, contact our wrongful death law firm today. Together, we'll take the first steps toward a better tomorrow.
Getting injured in an accident caused by someone else's negligence can be a scary and painful experience. Dealing with legal matters during recovery can be overwhelming, but a great personal injury lawyer in Charleston, SC, can help alleviate your worries and allow you to focus on healing. Our Charleston lawyers are dedicated to helping injured individuals recover quickly by providing excellent legal representation and attentive client services as you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and suffering.
If you're looking for a law firm you can trust, contact our office today for a legal consultation.
CHARLESTON — It’s been nearly a year since the Lowcountry and surrounding areas were blanketed in a rare snow. Meteorologists predict some of the same coastal areas might see more this weekend, though conditions won’t make for a day of play.People in the tri-county area might see snow flurries mixed in with rain during the evening of Saturday, Jan. 17 into Jan. 18, according to the National Weather Service.While temperatures are predicted to dip well below freezing in coming days, forecasters say warm weekend ...
CHARLESTON — It’s been nearly a year since the Lowcountry and surrounding areas were blanketed in a rare snow. Meteorologists predict some of the same coastal areas might see more this weekend, though conditions won’t make for a day of play.
People in the tri-county area might see snow flurries mixed in with rain during the evening of Saturday, Jan. 17 into Jan. 18, according to the National Weather Service.
While temperatures are predicted to dip well below freezing in coming days, forecasters say warm weekend weather will prevent any snow from sticking to surfaces.
A wintry mix of precipitation is anticipated to affect the Charleston area as well as Walterboro, Beaufort, Hilton Head and Allendale, along with some coastal and slight inland areas in Georgia.
Leading into the possible winter weather, residents are advised to bundle up, bring plants inside, use measures to prevent freezing pipes and ensure they have a steady source of heat.
A cold weather advisory will take effect at 8 p.m. Jan. 15 and last through 9 a.m. Jan. 16. Temperatures could drop to the teens, according to NWS.
Temperatures then are expected to rise well above freezing by midday Jan. 17.
With forecast fluctuations and constant weather changes, meteorologists are maintaining a low level of confidence in the potential for snow.
Forecasters are iffy on how much snow residents could see. That depends on where a low pressure system forms, said Alex Trellinger, meteorologist with NWS Charleston.
If the system forms off the coast, conditions will likely be right for a snowier scenario. If it forms over land, the weather will likely be all rain, Trellinger said.
This gamble means that weather systems coming into the area Jan. 17 could produce any number of outcomes.
Regardless, expected daytime highs in the mid-60s mean that nothing is likely to stick, though people may see frost accumulate on grassy areas, according to Trellinger.
The Charleston (SC) Cougars (12-3) aim to continue a three-game home winning streak when they host the Drexel Dragons (8-6) on January 16, 2026.Charleston (SC) was victorious in its most recent game against Hampton, 88-75, on Sunday. Tyja Beans was its leading scorer with 24 points. Drexel was victorious in its most recent game against Hofstra, 67-38, on Sunday. Deja Evans was its leading scorer with 20 points.Watch women’s college basketball, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service t...
The Charleston (SC) Cougars (12-3) aim to continue a three-game home winning streak when they host the Drexel Dragons (8-6) on January 16, 2026.
Charleston (SC) was victorious in its most recent game against Hampton, 88-75, on Sunday. Tyja Beans was its leading scorer with 24 points. Drexel was victorious in its most recent game against Hofstra, 67-38, on Sunday. Deja Evans was its leading scorer with 20 points.
Watch women’s college basketball, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service that gives you access to your favorite live sports and shows on demand. Use our link to sign up.
This contest between the Cougars and Dragons will go down on Friday, January 16, 2026. You should expect the opening tip at 7 p.m. ET.
The Cougars and Dragons will hit the floor at TD Arena for this matchup on Jan. 16, and if you want to see the action live, get your tickets now from Vivid Seats!
Charleston (SC) outscores opponents by 19.4 points per game (scoring 78.3 per game to rank 35th in college basketball while allowing 58.9 per outing to rank 65th in college basketball) and has a +291 scoring differential overall.
The Cougars are averaging 78.3 points, 21.3 more than the Dragons give up.
Charleston (SC) knocks down 7.9 three-pointers per game (56th in college basketball), 1.6 more than its opponents (6.3).
The Cougars are posting 89.4 points per game in home games. Away from home, they are averaging 70.3 points per contest.
In its last 10 games, Charleston (SC) has been racking up 73.5 points per contest, an average that’s slightly lower than the 78.3 it has scored over the course of the 2025-26 season.
Drexel’s +96 scoring differential (outscoring opponents by 6.9 points per game) is a result of putting up 63.9 points per game (233rd in college basketball) while allowing 57.0 per contest (34th in college basketball).
The Dragons’ 63.9 points per game are 5.0 more than the Cougars give up.
Drexel hits 5.1 three-pointers per game (270th in college basketball), while its opponents have made 5.9 on average.
The Dragons are scoring more points at home (66.4 per game) than on the road (61.7).
Want to see this game live? Buy tickets for Charleston (SC) vs. Drexel on Vivid Seats.
| Name | GP | PTS | REB | ASST | STL | BLK | 3PM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taryn Barbot | 15 | 19.5 | 6.1 | 2.6 | 1.9 | 0.5 | 2.8 |
| Taylor Barbot | 15 | 12.3 | 4.7 | 7.5 | 1.3 | 0.1 | 0.5 |
| Tyja Beans | 15 | 10.6 | 4.3 | 1.4 | 1.7 | 0.3 | 0.5 |
| Sophie Tougas | 14 | 8.8 | 3.4 | 0.6 | 1.2 | 0.3 | 1.9 |
| Grace Ezebilo | 15 | 6.6 | 11.7 | 0.1 | 1.7 | 0.5 | 0.0 |
| Name | GP | PTS | REB | ASST | STL | BLK | 3PM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amaris Baker | 14 | 19.9 | 3.9 | 1.3 | 0.6 | 0.0 | 2.1 |
| Laine McGurk | 14 | 11.9 | 3.6 | 2.6 | 0.7 | 0.0 | 1.4 |
| Deja Evans | 14 | 10.3 | 6.1 | 1.2 | 0.9 | 1.3 | 0.0 |
| Molly Rullo | 14 | 5.6 | 2.9 | 2.0 | 0.7 | 0.1 | 0.7 |
| Grace O’Neill | 14 | 4.6 | 5.4 | 4.6 | 1.1 | 0.1 | 0.5 |
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The Charleston (SC) Cougars (11-6, 4-0 CAA) will attempt to continue a seven-game winning streak when hitting the road against the Towson Tigers (9-9, 1-4 CAA) on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at TU Arena. It airs at 8 p.m. ET on CBS Sports Network.Towson beat Northeastern 87-78 on the road last time out, and were led by Dylan Williamson (22 PTS, 66.67 FG%, 2-4 from 3PT) and Jaquan Womack (17 PTS, 63.64 FG%). In its most recent game, Charleston (SC) beat Hampton, 74-70, at home. Its top performers were Colby Duggan (22 PTS, 53.85 FG%, 4-...
The Charleston (SC) Cougars (11-6, 4-0 CAA) will attempt to continue a seven-game winning streak when hitting the road against the Towson Tigers (9-9, 1-4 CAA) on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at TU Arena. It airs at 8 p.m. ET on CBS Sports Network.
Towson beat Northeastern 87-78 on the road last time out, and were led by Dylan Williamson (22 PTS, 66.67 FG%, 2-4 from 3PT) and Jaquan Womack (17 PTS, 63.64 FG%). In its most recent game, Charleston (SC) beat Hampton, 74-70, at home. Its top performers were Colby Duggan (22 PTS, 53.85 FG%, 4-7 from 3PT) and Jlynn Counter (19 PTS, 7 AST, 3 STL, 50 FG%).
Here is what you need to get ready for Thursday's college hoops game.
Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll
College basketball odds courtesy of BetMGM Sportsbook. Odds updated Thursday at 9:34 p.m. ET. For a full list of sports betting odds, access USA TODAY Sports Betting Scores Odds Hub.
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Gambling involves risk. Please only gamble with funds that you can comfortably afford to lose. While we do our utmost to offer good advice and information we cannot be held responsible for any loss that may be incurred as a result of gambling. We do our best to make sure all the information that we provide on this site is correct. However, from time to time mistakes will be made and we will not be held liable. Please check any stats or information if you are unsure how accurate they are. No guarantees are made with regards to results or financial gain. All forms of betting carry financial risk and it is up to the individual to make bets with or without the assistance of information provided on this site and we cannot be held responsible for any loss that may be incurred as a result of following the betting tips provided on this site. Past performances do not guarantee success in the future and betting odds fluctuate from one minute to the next. The material contained on this site is intended to inform, entertain and educate the reader and in no way represents an inducement to gamble legally or illegally or any sort of professional advice.
Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside. It is your sole responsibility to act in accordance with your local laws.
The Citadel Bulldogs (3-8) will try to halt a five-game road losing skid at the Charleston (SC) Cougars (5-6) on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 7 p.m. ET.In its most recent game, Charleston (SC) were winners at home over Charlotte, 74-67. Its top performers were Martin Kalu (18 PTS, 8 REB, 75.00 FG%, 4-6 from 3PT) and Jlynn Counter (17 PTS, 42.86 FG%). In its previous game, Citadel fell to South Carolina 71-55 on the road, with Carter Kingsbury (18 PTS, 57.14 FG%) and Sola Adebisi (9 PTS, 3 BLK, 25.00 FG%) the standout performers....
The Citadel Bulldogs (3-8) will try to halt a five-game road losing skid at the Charleston (SC) Cougars (5-6) on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 7 p.m. ET.
In its most recent game, Charleston (SC) were winners at home over Charlotte, 74-67. Its top performers were Martin Kalu (18 PTS, 8 REB, 75.00 FG%, 4-6 from 3PT) and Jlynn Counter (17 PTS, 42.86 FG%). In its previous game, Citadel fell to South Carolina 71-55 on the road, with Carter Kingsbury (18 PTS, 57.14 FG%) and Sola Adebisi (9 PTS, 3 BLK, 25.00 FG%) the standout performers.
Before watching this matchup, here is what you need to know about Wednesday's college basketball action.
Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll
College basketball odds courtesy of BetMGM Sportsbook. Odds updated Wednesday at 9:34 a.m. ET. For a full list of sports betting odds, access USA TODAY Sports Betting Scores Odds Hub.
Our team of savvy editors independently handpicks all recommendations. If you purchase through our links, the USA Today Network may earn a commission. Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.
Gambling involves risk. Please only gamble with funds that you can comfortably afford to lose. While we do our utmost to offer good advice and information we cannot be held responsible for any loss that may be incurred as a result of gambling. We do our best to make sure all the information that we provide on this site is correct. However, from time to time mistakes will be made and we will not be held liable. Please check any stats or information if you are unsure how accurate they are. No guarantees are made with regards to results or financial gain. All forms of betting carry financial risk and it is up to the individual to make bets with or without the assistance of information provided on this site and we cannot be held responsible for any loss that may be incurred as a result of following the betting tips provided on this site. Past performances do not guarantee success in the future and betting odds fluctuate from one minute to the next. The material contained on this site is intended to inform, entertain and educate the reader and in no way represents an inducement to gamble legally or illegally or any sort of professional advice.
Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside. It is your sole responsibility to act in accordance with your local laws.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — A prominent Lowcountry attorney has countersued his law partner for misusing firm money, months after being accused of doing the same himself.The countersuit, filed on Tuesday by David Hoffman, who is the face of the Hoffman Law Firm, alleges that his firm’s partner, Kevin Smith, put over $500,000 of personal expenses, including “excursions” at a downtown adult entertainment business, on a BP gas card belonging to the firm.The suit goes on to allege Smith would attempt to make p...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — A prominent Lowcountry attorney has countersued his law partner for misusing firm money, months after being accused of doing the same himself.
The countersuit, filed on Tuesday by David Hoffman, who is the face of the Hoffman Law Firm, alleges that his firm’s partner, Kevin Smith, put over $500,000 of personal expenses, including “excursions” at a downtown adult entertainment business, on a BP gas card belonging to the firm.
The suit goes on to allege Smith would attempt to make personal purchases on Amazon appear to be made by the firm’s office manager by changing the recipient’s name to hers.
A receipt from the filing purports to show a charge made on Hoffman’s personal firm credit card to fix Smith’s yacht, which the suit alleges is in relation to a yacht business that Smith owns.
Almost three months before Tuesday’s filing, Smith filed a lawsuit against Hoffman, alleging Hoffman committed “actual fraud” by spending firm funds on Botox, mortgage payments and weapons.
In an affidavit filed in November by Smith’s forensic accountant, Christa Yantis, she alleges that between 2017 and 2025 Hoffman spent $10,041,095 of firm funds on personal expenses or transfers to other business entities owned by Hoffman.
Some other payments alleged to have been made by Hoffman include interior and exterior cleaning of his home and costs relating to legal and accounting work.
The Hoffman Law Firm was founded in 2007, but Smith joined the practice in 2012. Around 2014, he became an owner of 49% of the firm, with Hoffman retaining 51%.
In his September lawsuit, Smith claimed that despite the firm only having two members, Hoffman refused to make “equitable distributions” for years.
A forensic accountant stated in court records that the disproportionate share of funds disbursed is $9,400,237.45 for the benefit of Hoffman and that it is highly likely that fraud has occurred.
In an affidavit filed by Hoffman in September, he said, “Both Mr. Smith and I have used firm monies to pay personal expenses,” and also said, “After this controversy arose, I instructed the accountant retained by [the Hoffman Law Firm] to review the tax returns, and to thoroughly go through Quickbook for the relevant period. He has completed the review and amended the tax returns. Those reflect the correction of the transfers made to other accounts.”
“While these transfers are loans to me, and I am responsible for putting them back in the LLC,” Hoffman said.
The Dec. 16 countersuit filed by Hoffman alleged personal expenses made by Smith included:
Among allegations made in initial filings, Hoffman alleged that Smith had discussed his “contemporaneous use of cocaine and other illegal drugs” while at work.
Hoffman’s December countersuit doubled down on these allegations, stating that, “[Smith] indulges in illegal drugs, and he then cannot help himself from regaling the office staff with tales of these ‘adventures’ and his accompanying unlawful conduct.”
Smith has previously denied using cocaine, responding in an email, “I do not use drugs and I believe these accusations are nothing more than retaliation against me for exposing Hoffman’s financial misconduct.”
In September, multiple affidavits were filed by Hoffman and eight other employees at the Hoffman Law Firm filed affidavits alleging that Smith wasn’t productive at work.
“Mr. Smith has done absolutely nothing with regard to the management of the law firm, and he has done comparatively little in the way of productivity.” Hoffman stated, “For quite some time, I have been dissatisfied with Mr. Smith and his behaviors. I suffered along but was increasingly dissatisfied of the effect it was having on our firm.”
Hoffman paralegal, Tracie Hopkins, said in her affidavit that, “When [Smith] was in the office, he spent an inordinate amount of time focusing upon his charter yacht business to the detriment of his case load. I overheard him talking on the telephone on many occasions about scheduling the charter boat.”
Hoffman office manager Stephanie Mills said, “He travels frequently across the country and internationally, performing at music festivals. He has on occasion discussed with me and others his partying life, including the use of illicit drugs, such as marijuana and cocaine.”
Hoffman claims in court filings that he had discussed with various legal counsel the need for the Hoffman Law Firm to remove Smith from the firm, leading up to August, on the basis of his alleged workplace conduct.
Judge Patrick Fant said in a September order that Hoffman was required to stop restricting financial records from Smith.
Fant addressed the contents of affidavits filed by Hoffman and his employees.
“Mr. Hoffman’s affidavit and those of the Firm employees do not provide a basis for denying the plaintiffs the temporary relief requested,” Fant said.
Hoffman released a statement regarding Tuesday’s countersuit:
Today’s court filing sets forth my response and counterclaims, which detail serious allegations regarding misconduct and financial misuse. I stand firmly behind the allegations set forth in the filing and believe it is important that truth and accountability prevail. While it is unfortunate that this matter has reached this point, addressing it through the proper legal channels is necessary.
Because this is active litigation, I will not litigate these matters in the media and will address them through the court process. This is a private business dispute and does not affect our clients, cases, or the day-to-day operations of Hoffman Law Firm.
Smith released a statement late Tuesday afternoon in response to Hoffman’s countersuit:
This situation has never been about ego, control, or public conflict. My actions have been guided by one obligation above all others. Protect the clients, protect the people who serve them, and protect the integrity of the firm. Clients deserve steady hands, clear communication, and lawyers who put their interests first.
His release continued:
Smith instituted this lawsuit after noticing irregularities on the firm’s tax returns. When Smith requested the firm’s financial records from David Hoffman, he was instructed not to enter the building again and told he would be removed from the law firm due to his “distrust” of Hoffman. Smith filed the lawsuit on behalf of himself and Hoffman Law Firm. The lawsuit seeks a full accounting, an order requiring Hoffman to pay back firm money he used for personal expenses, and an order dissociating David Hoffman from the firm. Shortly after the lawsuit was filed, a Temporary Restraining Order was issued against Hoffman noting Smith was “likely to succeed on the merits of the claim that Defendant Hoffman has breached his duty of loyalty by systematically and routinely using Firm funds for personal use and making unlawful distributions.” The Court went on to find both Smith and Hoffman Law Firm “are likely to succeed on the claims for conversion and fraud.”
In connection with the litigation, a certified public accountant and certified fraud examiner retained to review available records submitted sworn findings describing significant accounting irregularities, incomplete disclosures, and limitations placed on access to historical financial documentation. The examiner noted “(1) widespread misappropriations and self-dealing of the Firm’s funds by Mr. Hoffman; (2) repeated alteration of the Firm’s financial records with what appears to be an intent to conceal these misappropriations and self-dealing by Mr. Hoffman; (3) years of mis-categorizations of transactions which appear to be a result of a lack of understanding of basic record keeping principles by Mr. Hoffman; and (4) efforts to hide information and hinder our examination.” Her review showed Hoffman would print checks to himself, but then change the payee in the accounting records to make it appear those checks were written to some other business related entity. “This is indicative of an intent to conceal the money Mr. Hoffman was paying to himself and disguise the transaction from anyone who would review the books,” according to the examiner.
It is also alleged that Hoffman spent firm money on Botox injections, firearms, boat expenses, home mortgages, tuition payments for his children, lawyers for his divorce, and that he wrote regular checks to individuals with no known connection to legitimate law firm activities. The examiner noted that in one case, Hoffman made an electronic cash transfer to an account for one of his downtown Charleston apartments which he labeled in the firm’s accounting software as a “charitable contribution.”
Smith also alleges a law firm credit card was issued to a family member of Hoffman, who Smith says appears to be using the card for “unrestricted personal spending” that included 194 separate charges by that family member in July 2025 that comprised purchases made overseas during a trip, Uber Eats charges, and gaming purchases.
Smith alleges that based on limited available resources, the examiner estimated that Hoffman misappropriated over $10 million in law firm money to himself and on personal expenses betwene 2017 and 2025 “with still millions of dollars of records to go through.”
The examiner recommended, Smith said, that an independent third party assume responsibility for maintaining accounting records and overseeing financial decisions while the dispute continue to prevent “further risk to firm assets and operations.”
Smith’s release continued:
David Hoffman recently filed his Answer to the lawsuit and included counter claims against Smith. Smith contends Hoffman’s response is nothing more than retaliation and an attempt to divert attention from his financial wrongdoings. Because Hoffman contends he contributed more to the firm’s success than anyone else, Smith released an accounting of both his and Hoffman’s fees which show Smith brought in over $14,000,000 from 2016-2024. Hoffman produced less than $1,500,000 during that period or about 10% of Smith’s production.
Smith has continued working on client matters, cooperating fully with forensic review, and complying with all court directives. He has also posted the required bond and refrained from any actions that would destabilize the firm or prejudice the interests of clients, staff, or the court.
All allegations remain subject to judicial review and determination. He stated that no further public comment will be made while litigation is ongoing in order to respect the legal process and the court’s role in resolving the matter.
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