News Summary
Eight attorneys from South Carolina have been recognized in Forbes’ 2025 America’s Best-in-State Lawyers list, reflecting the state’s legal excellence. Notable attorneys include Richard Harpootlian and Bakari Sellers, alongside others from various specialties, showcasing the exceptional legal talent in Charleston. The recognition highlights their significant contributions to civil litigation and other areas, reinforcing the region’s reputation for professional integrity and quality in the legal profession.
Charleston, SC – A total of eight attorneys from South Carolina have been recognized in Forbes’ 2025 America’s Best-in-State Lawyers list, highlighting the exceptional legal talent present in the state. This prestigious list showcases top legal professionals across various specialties, with five of the honorees practicing in the Charleston area, confirming the city as a hub for legal excellence.
Among the distinguished attorneys are former state officials Richard “Dick” Harpootlian and Bakari Sellers, both of whom have made significant contributions to civil litigation in South Carolina. The list also includes John Lay, a partner at Gallivan, White and Boyd in Columbia, along with several other prominent attorneys recognized for their expertise across different legal practice areas.
In addition to Harpootlian and Sellers, notable Charleston-based attorneys recognized include Joseph F. Rice, founder of the well-respected firm Motley Rice, and Jodi Westbrook Flowers. Their selection underscores the high level of skill and professionalism exhibited by legal practitioners in the region.
The recognized attorneys come from diverse specializations, demonstrating their extensive capabilities in the legal field. Attendees of civil litigation include Craig, Flowers, Harpootlian, Rice, and Sellers, collectively representing a robust force in the practice. Meanwhile, Cobb is noted for expertise in construction litigation, Diminich focuses on private wealth, while Lay specializes in commercial litigation, showcasing the breadth of legal services available in South Carolina.
Joseph F. Rice’s notable recognition is not new; he was previously listed in Forbes’ America’s Top Lawyers in 2024, cementing his status as a leading figure in the legal community. The official announcement of the 2025 list was made on May 20, 2025, bringing attention to the accomplishments and reputation of these attorneys.
This recognition also occurs within a broader context of legal developments in the state. Recently, news emerged regarding a Justice Department order targeting Greystar for charging illegal fees to U.S. servicemembers, adding to the ongoing conversation about legal compliance and ethical responsibility in South Carolina’s legal environment.
The inclusion of these eight attorneys in Forbes’ prestigious list serves to highlight their hard work, dedication, and the significant impact they have made in their respective fields. Their recognition not only showcases individual accomplishments but also reflects the strength and quality of the legal profession in South Carolina as a whole, encouraging continued excellence and innovation in the practice of law.
As the legal landscape evolves, the contributions of these awardees represent a commitment to justice, advocacy, and professional integrity, further enhancing South Carolina’s reputation on a national scale. Recognition in such esteemed publications is an important milestone for every legal professional, reinforcing the importance of attorney expertise and specialization in addressing the unique legal needs of their clients.
In summary, eight attorneys from South Carolina have achieved remarkable recognition in Forbes’ 2025 America’s Best-in-State Lawyers list, showcasing the exceptional talent within the region, with a focus on civil litigation and various other practice areas. This acknowledgment is a testament to their hard work and dedication within the legal community, ensuring that the practice of law in South Carolina continues to thrive.
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4: Five Charleston Area Lawyers Named to Forbes Best-in-State Lawyers List
- WTMA: Five Charleston Area Attorneys Named to Forbes Best-in-State Lawyers List
- ABA Journal: Prominent South Carolina Lawyer Arrested
- Live 5 News: SC Supreme Court Temporarily Suspends Charleston Attorney’s Law License
- SC Lawyers Weekly: Personal Injury Law Power List 2025
- Wikipedia: Law
- Google Search: Charleston lawyers
- Google Scholar: Legal ethics South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law
- Google News: South Carolina law
