Summerville Personal Injury, Estate Planning, Business & Criminal Lawyers

Experience + Wisdom + Diligence

Shelbourne Law is a Summerville law firm serving clients throughout Charleston and surrounding communities in the areas of estate planning and probate, corporate law and litigation, and personal injury claims. Firm founder and lead attorney Brandt Shelbourne has been practicing law for a quarter of a century and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his practice, whether providing advice and assistance in drafting wills and trusts and forming business entities, or standing up for parties in litigation to resolve their disputes efficiently and effectively with their rights and best interests protected. We are from the Lowcountry and are an established part of the communities we serve. With personal service and detailed attention, our Summerville personal injury & estate planning lawyers are focused on achieving results. Call our office to meet with Brandt and find out how we can help you with your most pressing legal needs.

Auto Accidents and Personal Injury

Getting hurt in an auto accident or slip and fall can be painful and distressing, and the question of how you will deal financially can be especially stressful. We know the law and how to deal appropriately with insurance companies, and we work hard to negotiate an effective settlement that fully compensates you for your injury. Our lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court, and the insurance companies know it.

Estate Planning, Estate Administration and Probate Litigation

Everyone has unique needs when it comes to estate planning. Our attorneys take the time to sit down with you and learn about your needs and goals. We draft the right combination of wills, trusts and advance directives to ensure that your health and wealth are looked after during your lifetime, and that your wishes are carried out regarding the legacy you leave behind. We help personal representatives through the many difficult tasks of estate administration, and represent parties to resolve will contests or other probate litigation that may arise.

Corporate Law and Business Litigation

Whether establishing or growing a business, we help you choose the right business structure to operate your company, and prepare and file all the necessary documents so you are ready to begin or expand operations. We also provide smart, strategic, effective representation in the resolution of contract disputes, business torts, and other business litigation matters.

Criminal Defense

At Shelbourne Law, we are committed to protecting the rights of individuals facing criminal charges in Summerville. With decades of legal experience, Brandt Shelbourne and our team provide skilled representation for a wide range of criminal cases, including DUI, drug offenses, theft, assault, and more. We understand the serious consequences a criminal charge can have on your life, and we are dedicated to building a strong defense tailored to your unique circumstances.

Mediation and General Litigation

Regardless of the nature of your legal matter, count on Shelbourne Law to deal with it effectively and find the best solution that meets your needs. We serve as mediators to help parties reach a mutually satisfying resolution, and we are equally at home in court fighting hard for our clients’ rights.

Summerville Law FAQs

Personal Injury FAQs

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Summerville, SC?
Make sure you seek medical attention, report the accident to the authorities, take photos of the scene, and contact a personal injury lawyer at Shelbourne Law to protect your legal rights.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in South Carolina?
The statute of limitations in South Carolina is typically three years from the date of the injury. It’s best to speak with Shelbourne Law as early as possible to preserve evidence and start your claim.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault in an accident?
Yes. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule—you can recover compensation as long as you’re less than 51% at fault. Your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What types of compensation can I recover in a personal injury case?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, future care costs, and more. Shelbourne Law will help evaluate your full range of damages.

Do I need a lawyer for a minor injury?
Even for smaller injuries, an attorney can ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve. Shelbourne Law offers consultations to assess your case and help determine next steps.

Estate Planning FAQs

What documents should be included in a basic estate plan in Summerville?
A comprehensive estate plan often includes a will, durable power of attorney, healthcare power of attorney, and possibly a living trust. Shelbourne Law can help tailor your plan to your needs.

Is probate required in South Carolina?
Most estates go through some form of probate unless assets are placed in a trust or have named beneficiaries. Shelbourne Law helps simplify and guide families through the process.

What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will directs how your assets are distributed after death and goes through probate. A trust can avoid probate and allow for more privacy and flexibility. Shelbourne Law helps clients understand which option is best.

Can I update my will without rewriting the whole thing?
Yes, you can make updates using a codicil, but in some cases, rewriting may be simpler. Shelbourne Law can review your documents and recommend the best approach.

What happens if I die without a will in Summerville?
Your estate will be distributed according to South Carolina’s intestate succession laws, which may not reflect your wishes. Shelbourne Law can help ensure your preferences are documented clearly.

Business Law FAQs

What business structure is best for my new Summerville company?
It depends on your goals. LLCs, corporations, and partnerships all have different pros and cons. Shelbourne Law advises on structure, formation, and liability protection.

How do I register a business in South Carolina?
You’ll need to choose a name, file with the South Carolina Secretary of State, and obtain any required licenses. Shelbourne Law can walk you through each step.

Do I need an attorney to draft contracts for my business?
Absolutely. A poorly drafted contract can lead to disputes and liability. Shelbourne Law ensures your agreements are clear, enforceable, and tailored to your business.

Can Shelbourne Law help resolve partnership disputes?
Yes. From negotiation to litigation, Shelbourne Law handles disputes between partners, shareholders, and vendors with the goal of protecting your interests and business continuity.

How can I protect my business from liability?
Forming the right business entity, maintaining proper records, having strong contracts, and obtaining insurance are key. Shelbourne Law helps build protection into your operations from day one.

Criminal Defense FAQs

What should I do if I’m arrested in Summerville, SC?
Stay calm, invoke your right to remain silent, and ask for a lawyer. Do not answer police questions without legal counsel. Contact Shelbourne Law as soon as possible.

Can Shelbourne Law defend against DUI charges in South Carolina?
Yes. Shelbourne Law provides aggressive defense for DUI and other traffic-related charges, including field sobriety test challenges and license suspension hearings.

What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in SC?
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes and carry shorter jail time, while felonies have longer sentences and more severe penalties. Shelbourne Law handles both with strategic, experienced defense.

Will a criminal conviction stay on my record forever?
In many cases, yes—but expungement may be an option. Shelbourne Law can review your record to see if you qualify to clear your criminal history.

How can a criminal defense attorney help with domestic violence charges?
Shelbourne Law defends clients accused of domestic violence by investigating the facts, protecting your rights, and challenging false or exaggerated claims in court.

Experienced Lawyers Serving Throughout Summerville, SC

• Old Summerville
• Pemberton
• Magnolia Plantation
• Flowertown
• Timberhill
• Williamsburg Country Club
• Rolling Hills Plantation
• Cypress Ridge Plantation
• Pine Forest
• Depot District

Serving Charleston and Beyond with Personal Attention and Integrity

At Shelbourne Law, we strive to make ourselves available to our clients needs. From our office in Summerville, we are a mere 30 minutes from the county seat courthouses of Charleston, Dorchester, Colleton and Berkeley counties. We offer a free initial consultation on all personal injury cases and offer a variety of fee structures, including flat rate, hourly and contingency fee (no recovery, no fee) arrangements. Evening and weekend appointments are available for your convenience as well. Call Shelbourne Law at 843-871-2210. We look forward to meeting you and helping you with your legal needs.