News Summary
Ward and Smith has opened a new office in Columbia, South Carolina, with Michael H. Weaver leading the team. This expansion aims to enhance legal services for local businesses. The office will offer expertise in bankruptcy, business law, commercial litigation, and more, reflecting the firm’s commitment to the local community and addressing the growing demand for legal support in the area.
Columbia, South Carolina – Ward and Smith Expands Presence with New Office
Ward and Smith has officially opened its new office in Columbia, South Carolina, aiming to enhance the legal services offered to the local business community. The Columbia office, situated in The Meridian Building at 1320 Main Street, Suite 300, will be led by Michael H. Weaver, an attorney with significant experience in business and creditors’ rights law.
Michael H. Weaver, who joined Ward and Smith on September 29, brings a comprehensive understanding of South Carolina’s legal environment along with a robust network in the local business sector. This new office is part of the firm’s strategy to deepen relationships with clients in South Carolina and respond more effectively to the increasing needs of its business community.
Brad Evans, co-managing director of Ward and Smith, highlighted the importance of this expansion, stating that it will further facilitate the firm’s ability to serve clients in the area. The Columbia office is set to focus on various key practice areas, including bankruptcy and creditors’ rights, business and corporate law, commercial litigation, real estate, community associations, estate litigation, employment law, and financial services.
Experienced Leadership
Michael H. Weaver holds a cum laude degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law, graduating in 2004. His legal experience is extensive, evidenced by his previous role as President of the South Carolina Bankruptcy Law Association and his recognition as Volunteer of the Year by the United Way of the Midlands. Weaver has also been honored as one of The State’s Twenty Under Forty in 2017, underscoring his leadership within the legal community.
In conjunction with Weaver, the Columbia office will also incorporate a team of attorneys who are already licensed in South Carolina, allowing for a strong collaborative approach that emphasizes the firm’s commitment to teamwork and client-centered service.
Future Growth and Integration
Ward and Smith currently has a total of 120 attorneys working across multiple locations, including those in Asheville, Greenville, New Bern, Beaufort, Raleigh, and Wilmington in North Carolina. The firm has plans to further bolster its Columbia office by hiring additional attorneys and support staff, which will increase its capacity to address a wide range of legal challenges faced by local businesses.
As part of its organizational culture, Ward and Smith fosters an environment that prioritizes collaboration and reliability without emphasizing individual origination credits amongst its attorneys. This approach not only enhances internal teamwork but also aligns with the firm’s goal of providing comprehensive and effective legal solutions to clients.
Background on Ward and Smith
Founded in 1898, Ward and Smith has established itself as one of the largest law firms in eastern North Carolina. The firm’s long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality legal services has made it a trusted partner for businesses throughout the region. The decision to expand into South Carolina reflects the firm’s awareness of the growing demand for legal assistance in the area and its dedication to being a valuable member of the local community.
Michael H. Weaver’s leadership in the new Columbia office not only signifies a pivotal development for Ward and Smith but also represents an opportunity for the firm to engage more profoundly with local clients and integrate into the Columbia business landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Ward and Smith Expands into South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- Ward and Smith Welcomes Michael Weaver
- Google Search: Ward and Smith Law Firm
- The State: Local Crime Article
- Google Scholar: Columbia South Carolina
- Columbia Business Report: Lawyer Lisa Appointment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- WMBF News: South Carolina AG’s Office
- Google News: South Carolina News

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