What Is Premises Liability?
At McDougall LawFirm, we proudly represent injury victims across Charleston, South Carolina who’ve been harmed due to unsafe or poorly maintained property conditions. Charleston premises liability law holds residential, commercial, and public property owners accountable when they fail to provide a reasonably safe environment. Whether you’re visiting a grocery store in West Ashley, attending an event downtown, or navigating a stairwell in a James Island apartment complex, property owners have a legal obligation to prevent avoidable injuries.
Premises liability in Charleston covers a wide range of hazardous situations—slip and fall accidents on wet floors, injuries caused by broken handrails, poor lighting in parking garages, dog bites at private residences, or unsecured merchandise in retail spaces. If you’ve suffered harm due to a negligent property owner, a Charleston premises liability lawyer from McDougall LawFirm can help you assert your rights under South Carolina civil law.
We focus on long-tail search scenarios that capture real-world concerns, like:
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“Who’s responsible if I fall at a Charleston restaurant?”
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“Can I sue a hotel in Charleston for unsafe stairs?”
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“Premises liability lawyer near me after injury in Mount Pleasant store”
Our Charleston premises liability attorneys know how to investigate and litigate these claims with precision. We uncover key factors such as prior safety violations, lack of inspections, and negligent security to build strong, evidence-backed cases for our clients.
Importantly, these legal actions are not limited to physical injuries. Emotional distress, loss of income, and diminished quality of life also factor into compensation claims. Whether your injury occurred in North Charleston, Daniel Island, or a Charleston County beach rental, our premises liability attorneys in Charleston SC know the local codes, intricate laws, court expectations, and insurance tactics at play.
We serve as your legal advocate throughout every phase—from demand letters and negotiations to court proceedings—while keeping your well-being and recovery top of mind. With McDougall LawFirm, you’re not just hiring a premises liability attorney—you’re partnering with a Charleston-based legal team committed to justice, safety, and community accountability.
Let us help you turn confusion into clarity and injury into resolution.
Do You Have a Premises Liability Case?
Understanding Your Rights with McDougall LawFirm – Charleston’s Trusted Legal Advocates for the Injured
If you or someone you love has suffered an injury on someone else’s property in Charleston, South Carolina, you may be wondering, “Do I have a valid Charleston premises liability case?” At McDougall LawFirm, our experienced premises liability lawyers help injury victims throughout the Lowcountry determine whether they have legal standing to file a claim and pursue compensation.
To have a valid premises liability case under South Carolina law, four key elements must be met:
1. The Property Owner Owed You a Duty of Care
Whether you were shopping in a historic downtown Charleston boutique, walking through a hotel in North Charleston, or attending an event on Daniel Island, the property owner or occupier had a legal obligation to maintain reasonably safe conditions. This duty applies to customers, visitors, tenants, and in some cases, even trespassers—especially children under South Carolina’s “attractive nuisance” doctrine.
2. That Duty Was Breached
A breach occurs when the property owner fails to take reasonable steps to prevent harm. Examples include:
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Failing to clean up a spill at a Charleston-area grocery store
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Leaving broken steps or railings unrepaired in a Summerville rental unit
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Ignoring reports of poor lighting in a West Ashley parking lot
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Providing negligent security at a downtown Charleston venue
Our Charleston premises liability attorneys gather evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, maintenance logs, and inspection reports to prove that the owner’s negligence directly caused the dangerous condition.
3. The Breach Caused an Injury
In a Charleston premises liability case, it’s not enough that a hazard existed—you must have suffered a verifiable injury that was directly caused by the unsafe condition. Whether you broke a bone after a fall, sustained a head injury from falling merchandise, or were assaulted due to negligent security, our premises liability lawyers in Charleston SC work to link the injury clearly to the property owner’s breach of duty.
4. The Injury Led to Physical, Emotional, or Financial Harm
Valid premises liability claims require damages. These may include:
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Medical bills for emergency room visits or ongoing treatment
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Lost income from time off work
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Pain and suffering
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Loss of quality of life or permanent disability
Charleston residents often search long-tail questions like “Can I sue for slipping on wet floors in Charleston SC?” or “What to do after falling in a rental home on Folly Beach?” Our Charleston premises liability lawyers help answer those questions and take action.
At McDougall LawFirm, we serve clients across Charleston County, including Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island, and North Charleston. We offer free consultations to help you understand if your circumstances meet the legal criteria for a premises liability case in South Carolina.
Common Premises Liability Claims We Handle
At McDougall LawFirm, our experienced Charleston premises liability attorneys are committed to helping injury victims across the Lowcountry hold negligent property owners accountable. We handle a wide range of premises liability cases—from slips on King Street sidewalks to assaults in downtown parking garages. If you were injured on someone else’s property in Charleston, South Carolina, our knowledgeable premises liability lawyers are here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Our legal team understands the local building codes, city safety ordinances, and the nuanced expectations for property maintenance throughout Charleston County, including Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, James Island, and West Ashley. Below are the most common Charleston premises liability claims we handle:
Slip and Fall Accidents in Charleston
Slip and fall accidents are among the most common Charleston premises liability claims. These injuries often occur in grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, or retail locations throughout Charleston’s busy corridors like King Street and North Charleston shopping centers. If you slipped on a wet floor without a warning sign, tripped on a slick marble entryway at a historic hotel, or fell due to poor lighting in a downtown stairwell, a premises liability attorney at McDougall LawFirm can help.
Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe walking surfaces and prevent foreseeable dangers. When they fail to act reasonably, and someone suffers a broken wrist, hip fracture, or concussion, a skilled Charleston premises liability lawyer can pursue compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Trip and Fall Injuries
Unlike slips, trip and fall cases often involve uneven walkways, broken steps, or debris left in high-traffic areas. These incidents occur frequently in Charleston’s older neighborhoods, such as South of Broad or The Battery, where cracked sidewalks and worn bricks pose hazards to pedestrians. Rental properties and apartment complexes in West Ashley or James Island can also be hotspots for injuries caused by broken handrails, loose floorboards, or poor lighting. McDougall LawFirm’s premises liability attorneys investigate whether property owners were aware of the danger, failed to repair it, or neglected to warn guests. When their inaction causes harm, our Charleston premises liability lawyers work to hold them accountable under South Carolina law.
Negligent Security Claims
In Charleston, victims of assaults in apartment complexes, shopping centers, or parking garages may have a viable premises liability claim if inadequate security was a contributing factor. If you or a loved one was injured due to poor lighting, broken gate access, or the absence of surveillance cameras or security staff, a Charleston premises liability attorney can determine whether the property owner failed to protect you from foreseeable criminal activity. These cases often arise in nightlife areas, such as upper King Street or in poorly maintained properties near the airport or college campuses. McDougall LawFirm provides compassionate yet aggressive representation for victims of negligent security incidents, helping them recover for emotional trauma, medical care, and loss of income.
Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
Dog bites in Charleston often occur in neighborhoods, parks, and apartment complexes where pet owners fail to secure their animals properly. South Carolina law allows victims to pursue compensation without needing to prove the dog’s prior aggression. If you or your child was bitten by an unleashed dog at White Point Garden, a rental complex in Mount Pleasant, or while delivering packages in a Summerville suburb, McDougall LawFirm’s Charleston premises liability lawyers can help. Our team builds strong legal claims by reviewing veterinary records, interviewing witnesses, and holding negligent owners responsible for injuries, disfigurement, and emotional harm.
Swimming Pool Accidents
Swimming pools—whether at hotels, Airbnbs, or private communities—can become the site of serious Charleston premises liability claims. A drowning or near-drowning may occur due to a missing fence, lack of warning signage, or failure to provide supervision, especially in family-focused communities like Daniel Island or West Ashley. A knowledgeable premises liability attorney understands local codes and safety requirements governing pool safety and will investigate whether the property owner complied with them. From diving injuries to slippery pool decks, McDougall LawFirm provides legal advocacy that prioritizes accountability and justice for families.
Retail and Grocery Store Injuries
Charleston’s bustling commercial scene includes large retail chains, grocery stores, and boutique shops where accidents can easily occur. A falling box from a poorly stocked shelf, an overturned shopping cart left in an aisle, or faulty automatic doors can all result in injury. When store managers ignore maintenance responsibilities, and a customer is hurt as a result, a premises liability lawyer at McDougall LawFirm steps in. Our team evaluates store surveillance, maintenance records, and employee procedures to build a strong case for victims of preventable accidents in Charleston’s retail spaces.
Injuries in Rental Properties or Apartment Complexes
Tenants and visitors have the right to expect a safe environment in rental homes and apartment complexes. In Charleston, that means landlords must promptly address mold outbreaks, roof leaks, fire hazards, and dangerous stairwells. When a landlord ignores repeated maintenance requests or fails to fix a known hazard that leads to injury, they may be liable. From James Island to Goose Creek, McDougall LawFirm has helped clients recover damages after suffering injuries in rental housing due to unsafe living conditions. Our Charleston premises liability attorneys assist in filing claims against negligent landlords to ensure fair compensation and safer living environments for others.
What to Do After a Premises Injury in Charleston, SC
Step-by-Step Guidance from McDougall LawFirm’s Charleston Premises Liability Lawyers
If you’ve been injured on someone else’s property in Charleston, South Carolina—whether at a downtown hotel, local grocery store, apartment complex in West Ashley, or a boardwalk near the Battery—your actions in the hours and days that follow are crucial. McDougall LawFirm’s trusted Charleston premises liability attorneys are here to guide you through each critical step so your rights are protected, and your injury claim is positioned for success.
1. Prioritize Your Health and Get Medical Care Immediately
The first and most important step after any injury on unsafe premises is to seek immediate medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, underlying issues like concussions, fractures, or internal damage may not be obvious. Documenting your injuries right away provides essential medical records that your Charleston premises liability lawyer can use to connect your condition directly to the incident.
2. Report the Incident to the Property Owner or Manager
Whether your injury occurred in a Charleston shopping mall, a King Street restaurant, or a Johns Island rental home, it’s critical to notify the property owner, business manager, or landlord as soon as possible. Request a written incident report and ensure it contains accurate details. A seasoned premises liability attorney in Charleston can later use this report to support your claim and demonstrate the timeline of events.
3. Document the Scene and Preserve Evidence
If you’re able, take photographs of the hazardous condition that caused your fall, injury, or accident—this may include broken handrails, wet floors, poor lighting, or missing warning signs. Capture the exact location from multiple angles and include details such as visible injuries, your footwear, and any nearby surveillance cameras. McDougall LawFirm’s Charleston premises liability lawyers often rely on this early evidence to strengthen your legal position.
4. Do Not Provide Statements to Insurance Companies
Shortly after an accident, insurance adjusters may reach out and request a recorded statement or offer a quick settlement. Politely decline to speak with them until you’ve consulted a Charleston premises liability attorney. Insurers are trained to minimize payouts, and anything you say can be used to downplay your injuries or deny liability. Your legal team at McDougall LawFirm will handle all communication and protect your interests from the start.
5. Contact a Charleston Premises Liability Lawyer Without Delay
Navigating Charleston premises liability law requires local insight, legal precision, and a deep understanding of South Carolina property statutes. By contacting McDougall LawFirm as soon as possible, you get access to a dedicated premises liability attorney who will preserve evidence, gather witness statements, initiate legal filings, and pursue full compensation for your injuries, medical costs, and lost income.
Whether your case involves negligent maintenance, inadequate security, or hazardous conditions in a commercial or residential setting, the McDougall LawFirm team stands ready to help. Our Charleston premises liability lawyers offer personalized consultations and are deeply familiar with the legal landscape across Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, Daniel Island, and beyond.
How Our Charleston Premises Liability Lawyers Can Help You Recover
At McDougall LawFirm, we believe that after suffering a premises-related injury in Charleston, you should focus solely on healing—while we handle the legal burden. If you’ve been hurt due to dangerous property conditions, our Charleston premises liability attorneys step in to take on every aspect of your claim with diligence, experience, and local insight.
We begin with a detailed case evaluation, listening carefully to your story and reviewing every aspect of your injury, whether it occurred on a downtown Charleston sidewalk, a retail space in West Ashley, or a vacation rental near Folly Beach. Our premises liability lawyers thoroughly investigate the scene, gather surveillance footage, speak with witnesses, and document the hazardous conditions that caused your injury. We know that establishing fault in a Charleston premises liability case requires precision and speed, which is why our team moves quickly to secure all available evidence.
Using our extensive network of Charleston-area medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and building code experts, our premises liability attorneys develop a strong evidentiary foundation for your case. From identifying the property owner’s breach of duty to proving how the unsafe condition directly caused your injury, we build a claim that holds up under the strictest legal scrutiny.
We also take over all communication with the insurance companies. You won’t have to argue with adjusters or decipher complicated policy language—our Charleston premises liability lawyers will manage those interactions for you, ensuring you are never pressured into a lowball settlement. Our legal team is trained in negotiating aggressively and ethically for full and fair compensation.
If a fair agreement cannot be reached, McDougall LawFirm’s premises liability attorneys are fully prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf. We handle all court filings, discovery procedures, and trial preparation, representing you with clarity and confidence before Charleston County judges and juries. Whether your case is resolved at the negotiation table or inside a courtroom, you’ll have a trusted Charleston premises liability lawyer fighting for your rights every step of the way.
Throughout the legal process, we remain in close contact with you and your loved ones, keeping you informed and empowered. From James Island to Daniel Island and across the historic peninsula, McDougall LawFirm is proud to be the premises liability attorney Charleston residents count on for results-driven legal advocacy.
Damages You May Be Entitled to in a Charleston Premises Liability Case
When you suffer an injury on someone else’s property in Charleston, South Carolina—whether on King Street, at a beach rental near Sullivan’s Island, or in a local shopping center—you may be entitled to significant financial compensation under Charleston premises liability law. At McDougall LawFirm, our experienced Charleston premises liability lawyers work diligently to pursue every dollar you deserve, ensuring your recovery reflects not just your physical injury but the full impact this experience has had on your life.
Our Charleston premises liability attorneys assess both your economic and non-economic damages in full detail. One of the most immediate concerns after an accident is the cost of medical care. If you’ve been forced to undergo emergency treatment, hospital stays, diagnostic testing, surgery, physical therapy, or will require future medical care, we fight to make sure those expenses are fully covered. Our premises liability lawyers in Charleston work with local medical professionals to document the extent of your injuries and the cost of your recovery.
In many Charleston premises liability cases, injury victims are unable to return to work right away. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income or wages, and if your ability to earn a living has been permanently affected, our premises liability attorneys also seek damages for diminished earning capacity over your lifetime. Whether you’re a downtown hospitality worker, a healthcare employee in West Ashley, or a remote professional living on Johns Island, the financial effects of an injury can be life-altering—and McDougall LawFirm is here to help.
Charleston premises liability law also recognizes the toll injuries can take on your mental health and overall well-being. Our premises liability lawyers ensure that damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, anxiety, trauma, and the loss of enjoyment in daily activities are thoroughly calculated. These non-economic losses matter deeply, and our premises liability attorneys fight to make sure they’re treated with the same importance as any hospital bill.
If your Charleston premises liability injury has caused long-term disability, visible disfigurement, or permanent impairment, those life-altering effects are factored into your claim as well. The McDougall LawFirm team evaluates how your injuries may affect your independence, social life, and future care needs—and builds a compelling legal argument for full compensation.
No two Charleston premises liability cases are alike, and no damage claim should be underestimated. Whether your injury happened in a public space in the French Quarter, a stairwell in a downtown apartment complex, or a neglected sidewalk in North Charleston, our premises liability lawyers provide tailored representation based on the full range of your losses.
At McDougall LawFirm, our Charleston premises liability attorneys don’t just calculate damages—we deliver peace of mind. You focus on healing, and we’ll focus on holding negligent property owners accountable across every district and neighborhood of Charleston.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Charleston Premises Liability Case?
When an injury happens due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property in Charleston, determining who is legally responsible is one of the most critical steps in building a strong premises liability claim. At McDougall LawFirm, our experienced Charleston premises liability lawyers investigate every angle to identify the liable party—or parties—and hold them fully accountable under South Carolina law.
Liability in a Charleston premises liability case can fall on a wide range of individuals or entities. Private property owners have a legal obligation to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for guests, visitors, tenants, or patrons. This duty applies whether you’re injured in a historic downtown Charleston residence, a private home in James Island, or a vacation rental on Folly Beach. If a homeowner fails to repair a broken step, secure a pool, or warn about a dangerous condition, they may be held legally responsible for your injuries under Charleston premises liability statutes.
Business operators and commercial establishments in Charleston are also frequently the subject of premises liability lawsuits. Slip and fall accidents in retail stores, trip hazards in parking lots, and negligent security incidents at bars or restaurants all represent common case types. Whether you’re hurt in a shopping center in West Ashley or a grocery store in Mount Pleasant, a premises liability attorney at McDougall LawFirm will work to prove that the business owner failed to uphold their duty of care to lawful visitors.
Landlords and property management companies are responsible for ensuring that rental properties and apartment complexes throughout Charleston meet minimum safety standards. If loose handrails, malfunctioning elevators, or poor lighting in common areas contributed to your injury, a Charleston premises liability lawyer at our firm can help pursue action against negligent building owners or property managers.
Government entities can also be held liable in some Charleston premises liability cases, such as when an injury results from a dangerous condition on public property. Broken sidewalks, poorly maintained municipal buildings, or unlit stairwells in city-owned structures can all give rise to claims. However, when a government agency is involved, there are strict notice requirements and time limits for filing, so it’s crucial to consult with a qualified Charleston premises liability attorney immediately.
In some cases, more than one party may share responsibility for the accident. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that even if you are partially at fault for your injury—say, for not noticing a warning sign or texting while walking—you may still recover damages, as long as you are less than 51% responsible. Our premises liability lawyers evaluate the entire context of the accident and fight to minimize any assigned fault so your compensation remains intact.
At McDougall LawFirm, we know that no two Charleston premises liability claims are the same. That’s why we tailor our strategy based on a detailed liability analysis, extensive evidence gathering, and a thorough understanding of city-specific ordinances and legal precedents. Whether you were injured on Meeting Street, in a North Charleston strip mall, or at a local city park, our Charleston premises liability attorneys will help you understand your rights and pursue justice with precision and care.
Why Choose Our Charleston Premises Liability Lawyers
At McDougall LawFirm, our Charleston premises liability team stands out for a reason—we combine aggressive legal advocacy with deep local insight to help injured individuals and families recover the compensation they deserve. Choosing the right premises liability lawyer in Charleston isn’t just about credentials; it’s about working with a legal team that knows how to win and is committed to supporting you at every stage of your recovery.
Our Charleston premises liability attorneys bring a proven track record of success in personal injury litigation throughout Charleston County and the Lowcountry region. We have handled complex cases involving unsafe conditions on both private and commercial properties, with a strong understanding of the legal strategies required to prove liability and maximize results. Whether your injury occurred in a historic downtown Charleston business, a residential development in West Ashley, or a rental property near North Charleston, we have the litigation experience and courtroom credibility to move your claim forward.
What truly sets McDougall LawFirm apart is our local knowledge of Charleston property codes, safety regulations, and inspection standards. Our premises liability lawyers understand the nuanced ways Charleston zoning, maintenance requirements, and commercial safety ordinances impact your case. We know how to identify when a violation of city safety laws may have contributed to your injury, and we leverage that insight when negotiating with insurance carriers or presenting evidence to a jury.
Each case we handle is given personalized strategy and dedicated legal attention. No two Charleston premises liability cases are the same, which is why we take the time to investigate the facts thoroughly, interview witnesses, document scene conditions, and work with safety experts. When you choose McDougall LawFirm, you’re getting more than just a premises liability attorney—you’re getting a team of advocates who prioritize your health, your finances, and your future.
We also understand the financial stress that can come with a sudden injury. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you never pay legal fees upfront. If our Charleston premises liability lawyer doesn’t recover compensation for your injuries, you owe us nothing. It’s our way of aligning our success with your success—because your recovery is our priority.
Accessibility and responsiveness are central to how we serve clients. Our Charleston premises liability attorneys are available 24/7 to answer your questions, provide updates, and offer reassurance during what can often feel like an overwhelming process. From the moment you contact McDougall LawFirm, you’ll experience the difference that comes with working with a team that genuinely cares and stays committed to your case from start to finish.
FAQs About Charleston Premises Liability Cases
At McDougall LawFirm, our Charleston premises liability lawyers understand that victims of unsafe property conditions often have urgent legal questions. Below are some of the most commonly searched and high-intent questions we receive regarding Charleston premises liability claims.
How long do I have to file a Charleston premises liability claim?
Under South Carolina law, you typically have three years from the date of the injury to file a premises liability lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, applies whether your injury occurred in a Charleston retail store, apartment complex, restaurant, or private residence. Failing to file on time can permanently bar your claim. Our Charleston premises liability attorneys can help ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time to preserve your right to compensation.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Even if you were partially responsible for your injury—such as slipping while looking at your phone or ignoring a warning sign—you may still recover damages under South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence law. As long as you were less than 51% at fault, a Charleston premises liability lawyer may still recover compensation for your injuries, though your award may be reduced proportionally. Our attorneys will analyze all the details and advocate aggressively to minimize your fault and maximize your compensation.
Can I sue my landlord for injuries at my Charleston rental property?
Yes, tenants and guests may sue landlords for injuries caused by dangerous or unmaintained conditions. If your landlord failed to repair broken steps, remove hazards, or address known safety violations, a Charleston premises liability attorney at McDougall LawFirm can help you pursue a legal claim. We assist clients in rental injury cases across downtown Charleston, North Charleston, James Island, and beyond—helping renters and tenants hold negligent property owners accountable.
Do I need a premises liability lawyer for a slip and fall case in Charleston?
Absolutely. Premises liability cases are often more complex than they appear, and proving fault requires experience with evidence collection, injury documentation, and liability laws specific to Charleston. Insurance companies may try to downplay the seriousness of your injuries or shift blame. A skilled Charleston premises liability lawyer can level the playing field, ensuring your rights are protected and your damages are fairly valued. At McDougall LawFirm, we’ve recovered results in many Charleston slip and fall cases, and we’re ready to help you too.
How much is my Charleston premises liability case worth?
The value of your premises liability claim depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and whether long-term impairment is involved. Charleston premises liability attorneys at McDougall LawFirm assess each case on an individual basis, using medical experts, economic reports, and property evaluations to determine its full value. Whether your injury happened on commercial property in West Ashley or a historic downtown inn, we’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Request a Free Charleston Premises Liability Consultation Today
If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, now is the time to take action. At McDougall LawFirm, our Charleston premises liability attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you pursue the full compensation you deserve. We represent clients across downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant, West Ashley, James Island, North Charleston, and the surrounding Lowcountry.
Your recovery starts with a free case review. When you contact a Charleston premises liability lawyer at our firm, you’ll receive a compassionate, honest, and thorough assessment of your claim. There are no upfront legal fees, and we only get paid if we win compensation for you.
We know that accidents happen unexpectedly and that time is of the essence. That’s why our Charleston premises liability legal team offers same-day appointments, virtual consultations, and evening availability to fit your schedule. We also provide a free downloadable premises injury checklist so you can protect your rights immediately after an accident, whether it occurred in a Charleston grocery store, rental property, hotel, or parking lot.
Our premises liability attorneys in Charleston are standing by to answer your questions, guide you through next steps, and advocate for the justice you deserve. If you’ve suffered from a slip and fall, trip and fall, negligent security incident, or other property-related injury, don’t wait. Get the experienced legal help you need today.
Call 843-438-4386 now to speak with a Charleston premises liability lawyer now, or complete our secure online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
