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List of the best lawyers in Columbia, United States

Law Firm of J.W. Stafford, L.L.C.

30 minutes Free Consultation

Columbia, United States

Founded in 2015

6 people in their team

English

Our Maryland employment lawyers protect the rights of employees in Maryland by punishing employers that discriminate, turn a blind eye to harassment in the workplace or steal wages from their employees. We also represent employees before the EEOC, counsel them regarding employment contracts, and...

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United States Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 26 legal questions in United States and read the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

6 figure sc winning denied kyc verified: Accessed Platform: I accessed [contact info removed], a subdomain controlled by [company removed] displaying identical branding, functionality, and Sweeps Rules to their main site [contact info removed]. Platform Representations: The site displayed Sweeps Rules Section 3 stating: "these Sweeps Rules provide the terms pursuant to which you may obtain free... Read more →; Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)

The user accessed a sub‑domain of a company that duplicated the main site’s branding, functionality, and “Sweeps Rules.” Those rules (Section 3) promised free Sweepstakes Coins (SC) that could be used to play sweep‑stake games and win prizes, with no...
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Illegal use of images and blackmail: I am an Epstein victim and my images were used to publise the case. As a victim illegal images were used for profit on pornography sites. I have been threatened with this images and harassed at my employment . I have had to flee the usa because of this harrassment... Read more →; Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)

I am sorry to hear you are experiencing this. Thank you for fighting back. You have several ways to stop the non‑consensual use of your images and to hold the perpetrators accountable. Under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2261A) the...
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DTV, LTR, O Visa and ability to keep working remotely: Dear Sir or Madam, I am a 65-year-old United States citizen interested in relocating to Thailand on a long-term basis. I am seeking clarification on the most appropriate visa options for my situation. My financial profile is as follows: • I receive a U.S. Government retirement pension of approximately USD... Read more →; Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)

Thai‑visa options for a 65‑year‑old U.S. retiree with pension, disability and part‑time income Non‑Immigrant O‑A (Long‑Stay Retirement) visa – The current rule (Thai Immigration Bureau, 2023‑2024) allows the applicant to qualify either by (a) holding THB 800,000 (~ USD 23,000)...
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United States Legal Articles

Browse our 34 legal articles in United States written by expert lawyers.

New York Climate Superfund Act Liability 2026 Guide: This new US climate cost recovery law is retroactive and targets large historical greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters in energy, industrial, and logistics sectors as "responsible parties" for a $75 billion fund. Liability is strict: the government does not need to prove fault, negligence, or causation of specific climate harms, only... Read more →
NY 2026 Corp Tax: Thresholds & Franchise: For tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2026, New York businesses will only be required to make estimated tax payments if their expected New York tax (including any MTA surcharge) is at least $5,000, up from $1,000. Many small and some mid-sized New York corporations and S corporations... Read more →
Are Non-Competes Enforceable in New York?: Non-competes are still legal in New York and most of the United States, but courts apply strict scrutiny and often refuse to enforce broad, form agreements. Governor Hochul vetoed New York's broad non-compete ban (often referenced as S4641A / S3100A) in December 2023, so as of my last update there... Read more →

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About Hiring a Lawyer in Columbia, United States

Hiring a lawyer in Columbia, United States is an important step if you find yourself facing a legal issue or want to ensure your rights are protected. The process typically begins with identifying the type of legal help you need, such as family law, criminal defense, personal injury, real estate, or business law. You will want to research and contact lawyers or law firms that specialize in your area of concern. Most lawyers offer an initial consultation, which allows you to discuss your situation and understand your options. During this meeting, you should ask about the attorney's experience, fees, and potential strategies. It is crucial to hire a lawyer who is licensed to practice in South Carolina and is in good standing with the state bar. Once you select a lawyer, you will usually sign a written agreement detailing the scope of representation and fee arrangements.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where hiring a lawyer in Columbia, United States may be necessary. Common reasons include:

Facing criminal charges or being investigated by law enforcement.
Going through divorce or child custody proceedings.
Suffering an injury in a car accident or another incident due to someone else's negligence.
Buying or selling property and wanting to ensure the transaction is legally sound.
Starting, buying, or managing a business and dealing with contracts or employment matters.
Wanting to draft or update a will or estate plan.
Needing to resolve immigration, bankruptcy, or landlord-tenant issues.
Being sued or needing to file a lawsuit in civil court.

Lawyers offer valuable guidance and advocacy to help you navigate complex procedures, meet important deadlines, and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Local Laws Overview

Columbia is the capital city of South Carolina, and all laws applicable in the state as well as local municipal ordinances apply. Key aspects of local laws that are often relevant include:

State Criminal Law: Criminal offenses, penalties, and procedures are governed by South Carolina law. Columbia also enforces local ordinances for minor violations.
Family Law: South Carolina has specific requirements for divorce, legal separation, child custody, and support. Residency requirements and waiting periods apply.
Civil Litigation: Deadlines for filing lawsuits (statutes of limitations) can vary significantly by type of legal claim. Local court rules also set out procedures to follow.
Real Estate: Property transactions in Columbia must comply with state and local requirements, including disclosure, title examination, and property taxes.
Business Law: Businesses must register with South Carolina's Secretary of State and comply with state and city licensing, zoning, and tax regulations.
Traffic and Municipal Violations: Columbia Police and Richland County enforce local rules related to traffic, noise, and zoning within city limits.

It's essential to consult an attorney familiar with local and state law to ensure compliance and protect your interests, especially since city codes and rules may vary from other South Carolina locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a reputable lawyer in Columbia, United States?

You can start by searching the South Carolina Bar's Lawyer Referral Service or asking for recommendations from trusted friends or family. Make sure any lawyer you consider is licensed and in good standing with the South Carolina Bar.

What should I bring to my first meeting with a lawyer?

Bring any documents related to your legal issue, a list of questions, and information about your expectations and goals. Being organized helps the lawyer assess your situation more efficiently.

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer in Columbia?

Fees can vary widely depending on the type of case and the lawyer’s experience. Some work on hourly rates, while others may offer flat fees or contingency fees (especially for personal injury cases). Always ask for a detailed explanation of fees during the initial consultation.

What if I cannot afford an attorney?

You may qualify for free or low-cost legal assistance through legal aid organizations or public defender services if you face criminal charges. Contact South Carolina Legal Services for civil matters or the local public defender’s office for criminal matters.

Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?

You are not required to have a lawyer in small claims court, but consulting one can help ensure your case is strong and your rights are protected.

Can a lawyer help me with immigration issues in Columbia?

Yes, many attorneys in Columbia specialize in immigration law and can help with visas, green cards, citizenship, and deportation defense.

How do I verify if a lawyer is licensed in South Carolina?

You can check the license status and disciplinary history of an attorney on the South Carolina Bar’s official website at

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Columbia through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Columbia, United States — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.

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