Why I Belong
We've been talking to our members to find out why they enjoy and benefit from being a member of the Richland County Bar Association. See what they are saying!
“I belong to the RCBA because there is no better way to connect with my colleagues outside of work; the pandemic may have halted that temporarily, but it is not gone forever. I also know firsthand that the leadership of the RCBA is interested and invested in each of its members.”
- Olivia Jones
Olivia Jones Law
"Being a part of the Richland County Bar Association is not only vital for MY development as a lawyer, but also for any women of color that want to be an asset to their legal community. The essence of who I am is making sure that everyone has a seat at the table. The more I embrace who I am and interact with my peers, I realize my voice is not only appreciated, but needed. I am thankful for the Richland County Bar Association for their “open arms” and support in the many ideas and conversation birthed in our Diversity Committee in which I serve as co-chair."
- Cheslyne Brighthop
Turner Padget Graham and Laney P.A.
“Because my practice is primarily focused on clients/matters all over the country and abroad, I typically do not interact with my fellow attorneys here in Columbia. Being a member of the RCBA affords me the opportunity to meet, and work with for the betterment of our community, the best and brightest attorneys Richland County has to offer.”
- Todd A. Serbin
Nexsen Pruet, LLC
"The Richland County Bar has allowed me to meet and connect with people that I never would have met anywhere else. I have developed a deep appreciation for the broad spectrum of attorneys we have in Richland County working to make a positive impact in the lives of attorneys, clients and communities."
- Lamar Fyall
Assistant Solicitor, Fifth Judicial Circuit
ABOUT THE RCBA
The Richland County Bar Association is the largest voluntary Bar in South Carolina and was established to promote the common business and professional interests of lawyers practicing in Richland County, South Carolina. Over the years, our membership has grown to over 1,900 attorneys. Our Executive Committee meets monthly to make decisions about the direction of our Bar, and we hold various events all year long to foster strong relationship among our members. Learn more about how you can get involved!
Celebrating Women's History Month Close to Home
In celebration of Women's History Month, the RCBA is recognizing outstanding women in our county bar throughout the month of March. Members were asked to share about a female member of the Richland County Bar (past or present) that has positively influenced and/or made a significant impact on their legal career.
Ashley Story shares about her mentor Regina Hollins Lewis
As I consider all the women who have made a lasting impact on my legal career, Regina Lewis will always make my short list. 
I first met Regina when she mediated a difficult case for me when I was a young attorney and since have enjoyed the pleasure of working with her often and calling her my friend. She excels not only in the courtroom but resolves to mediate the most challenging cases – finding common ground between two oppositions that rivals anyone in our community. Her leadership, however, knows no bounds; she owns – with her partner, Amy Gaffney – a successful practice that spans the bounds of our state while raising two beautiful and successful daughters. Regina, thank you for your many contributions to our legal community and also to my practice. I am forever thankful to rely upon you and enjoy working with you immensely.
Judge Amy McCulloch shares about her mentor & friend Kathryn Luck Campbell Hubbird
I would like to honor Kathryn Luck Campbell Hubbird. While she was only a year ahead of me in law school, she was my mentor in the Richland County Solicitor's Office and a friend. She showed me what it looked like to be a strong prosecutor, ready to take on any case. She asked the tough questions, she prepared and worked tirelessly, and was fearless in the courtroom.
Reece Williams shares about his former colleague Doris McAndrew
Doris McAndrew was fifty when she passed the bar and joined Tootie Williams and me in our firm. Although a U.C. Berkeley feminist who specialized in criminal defense, Doris was disarmingly diffident and motherly. A fan of Shakespeare, her usual plea was for mercy, "It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven." She made it appear unlikely that her clients were guilty and they usually walked.
RCBA MEMBERSHIP
The benefits of membership in the Richland County Bar Association are numerous. We host events regularly, provide networking and service opportunities, offer continuing legal education, and provide regular communication and updates on what's going on in Richland County's legal community. Joining our bar offers access to a wealth of people and resources that will enhance your experience practicing law in Richland Country.
LOOK UP MEMBERS
To find a lawyer, the South Carolina Bar Association has a comprehensive directory.
BECOME A MEMBER
Use our online registration form to become a member and pay for your membership online.
Diversity Committee Highlights Members of local Judiciary
During the month of February, the Education Sub-Committee showcased several Black members of our local judiciary and the history that has influenced them. They were kind to share a little about who and what inspired their legal careers. We hope you will take a moment to listen to the wonderful insights from our Judges and see how Black history has shaped, and will continue to shape, our Richland County Bar.
SUPREME COURT GROUNDS BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT
The Supreme Court Beautification Project is a state-wide effort of county bars and private attorneys of South Carolina. It consists of placing a wall along Sumter Street, providing additional lighting to the parking lot, establishing proper shade trees in the parking lot, and replacing asphalt with permeable concrete pavers. We are working hard to raise the funds needed to complete the project. Your support is appreciated!
UPCOMING RCBA EVENTS
Tuesday, March 30 at 12:00 Noon
Lunch & Learn - “Trial Strategy and Oral Advocacy” via Zoom Pro Webinar
Join us as Robert Goings and Gray Culbreath discuss how they prepare a case with trial in mind, and their experience in how to be a strong oral advocate in motion, trial, and appellate practice. This panel discussion will provide plaintiff and defense perspectives on strategies and tips for improving oral advocacy skills.
Thursday, May 6, at 7:00 pm
Movie on the Lawn of the Hampton-Preston Mansion
Join the RCBA Wellness & Membership Committees for a casual movie night on the lawn of the Hampton-Preston Mansion. Bring your chairs/blankets - areas will be sectioned off for families or small groups to sit together. More details to follow.
THE RICHBAR NEWS
