Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
5.0 /5.0
103 Client Reviews
Free Consultation
$0 first 30 minutes
PRO
Robert F. Goings
also known as Robert, Goings
Virtual Consultation Available
Free Consultation
About Robert
Biography
Over two decades of practicing law, Robert F. Goings has earned a reputation as one of the leading trial lawyers in South Carolina, known for taking on major corporations, insurance companies, and hospitals on behalf of seriously injured clients and families. Robert has secured some of the largest jury verdicts in South Carolina history, including one of the highest non-fatal injury verdicts in Richland County history—a $13.5 million jury verdict with punitive damages—and a recent $5 million wrongful-death medical malpractice verdict. Many other results cannot be published due to confidentiality obligations. His results reflect his standing as a highly respected South Carolina personal injury lawyer with the courtroom skill to take high-stakes cases to verdict.
Raised on a dairy farm in Union County, Robert brings the values of fairness, honesty, and hard work to every case. His grandfather, a hardworking farmer and a man of the utmost integrity, taught Robert from a young age that treating people “right,” being honest, and doing good by others were nonnegotiables in life. Although Robert was not athletic enough to make it on a varsity team, his love for singing, theater, and the performing arts—and the grit he developed on the farm—became the foundation for his success in the courtroom. For Robert today, as a leading trial lawyer, the courtroom is his stage, and he channels those early skills and values into his work representing victims of catastrophic injuries, trucking accidents, medical malpractice, product defects, and wrongful death cases all across South Carolina.
Robert’s record of landmark verdicts, creative advocacy, and unwavering commitment to justice has made him one of the most respected trial lawyers in South Carolina. Robert is known for being trial-ready, meaning he aggressively prepares every case for court and refuses to settle for less than his clients deserve. This approach has generated courtroom success that has drawn widespread respect from both the legal community and the media. South Carolina Lawyers Weekly has stated that “Robert Goings has a knack for getting big verdicts,” and Robert is frequently praised by his peers for his creative trial strategies and tenacious courtroom advocacy.
He is also regularly called upon and retained by other attorneys to assist in complex, high-stakes personal injury and wrongful death cases—an acknowledgment of his skill, judgment, and the trust placed in him by his fellow lawyers across the state. Robert is known for bringing a rare combination of creativity and tenacity into the courtroom—thinking several steps ahead, uncovering angles others miss, and relentlessly driving each case toward the truth. His dynamic presence, strategic insight, and ability to connect authentically with juries have earned him a reputation as one of the most effective and persuasive trial advocates in South Carolina. For Robert, the courtroom is his natural habitat, and the place where he is most comfortable as a lawyer. He believes the challenge of being a trial lawyer is that the audience is always changing—every jury is different, every judge is different, and every case brings new facts and new witnesses. The one constant is Robert’s desire to be a truth-teller, connect with the jury, and be authentic, truthful, and compassionate in the courtroom as he represents his clients to the best of his ability.
Apart from his work as a lawyer and as a business owner, Robert has also single-handedly built one of the most respected plaintiffs’ trial firms in South Carolina. Through a commitment to excellence, integrity, and client-focused advocacy, Robert has assembled a team of exceptionally talented trial attorneys and staff who are recognized as leaders in the legal community. Under Robert’s leadership, Goings Law Firm, LLC has earned a statewide reputation for outstanding results, professionalism, and the strength of its trial team.
The firm’s success is reflected in its statewide recognition, including:
- Best Law Firm (2024 & 2025)
- Best Personal Injury Firm (2024 & 2025)
- Best Workers’ Compensation Firm (2024 & 2025)
- Best Accident Firm (2025)
Goings Law Firm, LLC has cemented its position as one of the premier plaintiffs’ litigation firms in South Carolina and a top choice for clients seeking experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorneys in Columbia and throughout South Carolina.
When you hire Robert and the team at Goings Law Firm, LLC, you aren’t getting a lawyer who looks for a quick settlement—you’re getting a true trial advocate with a proven record in the courtroom. Whether the case involves a severe injury, medical negligence, or a wrongful death, Robert and his team bring the legal skill, strategic preparation, and unwavering determination needed to stand up to the most powerful defendants.
Outside his firm, Robert spends his time with his wife Rebecca (also an attorney) and their three children. When he’s not in the courtroom, he loves being outdoors, cooking barbecue, or singing at his church, living out the values he brings to every aspect of his work and life.
Courts Admitted
- All South Carolina State Courts
- U.S. District Court
- Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals
- Federal Circuit Court of Appeals
- Supreme Court of the United States
Disclaimer: Any endorsement, testimonial, or review contained on this attorney's profile is not intended to create any expectation that the same results could be obtained for other clients in similar matters without reference to the specific factual and legal circumstances of each client's case. This attorney's profile is not intended to compare one lawyer’s services with other lawyers’ services. Any result the endorsed lawyer or law firm may achieve on behalf of one client in one matter does not necessarily indicate similar results can be obtained for other clients.
Are you looking for a Top Rated Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Attorney? Call Robert F. Goings for a Free Consultation.
Serious Personal Injuries? The Goings Law Firm, LLC can help.
Protecting the Rights of Workers In South Carolina. Call for Free Consultation.
If you have been involved in a serious car accident, you need to contact the Goings Law Firm today for a free consultation.
Goings Law Firm is the trucking accident pros in South Carolina
We proudly represent families who have lost a loved one due to negligence or wrongful death. Let us help you today!
Practice Areas
13
Practice Areas
Personal Injury
20%
Car Accident
10%
Trucking Accident
10%
Workers Compensation
10%
Fees and Rates
Cost
Hourly Rates
$ 150-500 per hour
Contingency
1%-40%
Retainer
Sometimes
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2020 2018 2017
...
+
5
Licenses
Licensed in South Carolina for 19 years
State: South Carolina
Acquired: 2006
No misconduct found
Location
Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find Robert online.
Robert F. Goings's Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (70)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Showing 1 - 5 of 41 reviews | Advocacy
Posted by Lillie | July 09, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
Goings Law Firm is the Best!
Attorney Robert Goings represented me recently, and he and his staff were very courteous, professional and knowledgeable. Attorney Goings made sure I was informed of and aware of the legal process. Robert Goings successfully settled my case for more than expected. He and his staff made me feel ve...
Posted by Virtue | June 07, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Car Accidents
A Very Courteous Lawyer
I was attending my first year of College when that privilege was stripped away from me due to a car accident that was no fault of my own. I searched for a Lawyer to work on my behalf and I found Goings Law Firm. Robert is the man who helped me with my case. He was very kind, respectful, and understan...
Posted by Edward | December 06, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury
Great courtroom lawyer
Robert Goings represented after I was hit by a concrete truck. The insurance company denied my case so we had to go to court. Robert and his team of lawyers did a great job representing me in front of a judge and a jury. I would highly recommend Robert and his firm to anyone who has suffered a seriou...
Posted by Michael | November 28, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Animal & Dog Bites
Best law firm in South Carolina
I was attacked by a dog while on the job resulting in serious injuries to my leg. Thankfully a family member, who is also an attorney, recommended that I contact Robert Goings of the Goings Law Firm. Hiring this firm was the best decision I made! Robert and his firm did a great job making sure th...
Posted by M. S. | January 27, 2022 | Hired Attorney | Personal Injury
Excellent Personal Injury Attorney
Robert and his team took great care of me and my boat accident case. I’m grateful for the outcome and all the support they gave me during the toughest time of my life. I was injured in SC while I was visiting. Due to Covid and being from another state, we had to communicate via calls, Zoom, and email...
Robert F. Goings's Lawyer Endorsements
"Robert is a fantastic attorney with all the charm and charisma you need from a trial attorney. He's legendary, so I don't have to say much except this: I endorse him 100%."
"Robert is as good a lawyer as there is in this state. He is proficient in the law, excellent in the courtroom, and incomparable in the community."
"I have known Robert for many years. He is a tireless advocate for his clients."
"I have worked with Robert both as an adversary and co-counsel. He is an excellent lawyer and a true advocate for his clients."
"Robert is a great lawyer and advocate! I have worked closely with Robert on several different cases and know how hard he works for all of his clients!"
"Robert Goings is one of the best attorneys in South Carolina, period. Robert has an ability to connect with his clients and put them at ease no matter what legal situation they may be dealing with. Robert is unmatched in the courtroom, and a former law professor of mine called Robert the "Michael Jordan" of trial attorneys. You can feel confident that you will receive the very best legal representation from Robert and his team at the Goings Law Firm."
"I am happy to endorse Robert Goings. Robert is an excellent advocate for his clients, and he goes above and beyond to get results."
"I endorse this lawyer. Robert is a fantastic attorney who I've had the pleasure of working with in workers compensation matters. He is highly skilled and zealously represents his clients' interests. I would recommend him to anyone looking for legal representation!"
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known and worked with Robert professionally for several years. He is a respected member of the bar and is held in high esteem by his colleagues. I believe him to be a competent, knowledgeable and professional attorney who maintains the highest ethical standards and works tirelessly for his clients. I would not hesitate to refer a personal injury matter to him."
"Robert is one of the best young attorneys in our state. He is an excellent trial attorney and advocates zealously for his clients. I have never had to think twice before referring my clients or my own family members to Mr. Goings if they are hurt in an accident. He gets the job done."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I have worked both with and against Robert on various matters, and I have always been impressed with the quality of his work and his professionalism. I would not hesitate to recommend him."
"Robert is a brilliant and diligent advocate for his clients. I have witnessed him litigate several matters and there is no question he is "the real deal." I humbly endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer for his practice in personal injury!"
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Robert Goings is a skilled litigator and superb advocate for his clients. I highly recommend and endorse him."
"I have known Robert for many years and have always known him to be smart, prepared and very hard working. He is an excellent lawyer and is a fair and zealous advocate for his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. Robert is both detail and results oriented. He's a worthy adversary -- fights hard, but fair. Any client would be lucky to have him for a lawyer."
"Robert is an excellent lawyer and peerless advocate. He works tirelessly on behalf of his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. Robert does an excellent job for his client and I never hesitate to refer cases to him. He is an outstanding attorney and community leader."
Marion Moses
Criminal defense lawyer
Joel Hughes
Litigation lawyer
Tyler Lee
Workers compensation lawyer
James Cavanaugh
Trucking accident lawyer
Joseph Thickens
Personal injury lawyer
Lowell Bernstein
Personal injury lawyer
Jenkins Mann
Personal injury lawyer
Jessica Gooding
Personal injury lawyer
Francis Hinson
Medical malpractice lawyer
Samuel Clawson
Admiralty and maritime lawyer
Jeremy Summerlin
Employment and labor lawyer
Victor Li
Criminal defense lawyer
James Moore
Civil rights lawyer
Scott Evans
Wrongful death lawyer
Kenneth Harrell
Workers compensation lawyer
Walton McLeod
Litigation lawyer
Reese Stidham
Criminal defense lawyer
Eric Tonnsen
Litigation lawyer
Ryan Newton
Real estate lawyer
Rebecca Roser
Commercial real estate lawyer
Experience
Honors
2026
Recognized for work in Litigation – Insurance, Best Lawyers in America
2026
Top 25 Attorneys in South Carolina, SuperLawyers
2026
Top 10 Attorneys in South Carolina, SuperLawyers
2026
Super Lawyers, SuperLawyers
2026
Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, Best Lawyers in America
2025
Named, South Carolina Lawyers Weekly’s 2025 Personal Injury Law Power List
2025
Client Champion Award, Martindale-Hubbell
2025
Top 25 Attorneys in South Carolina, SuperLawyers
2025
Top 10 Attorneys in South Carolina, SuperLawyers
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2025
South Carolina Midlands, Legal Elite
2024
Top 25 Attorneys in South Carolina, SuperLawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2023
Top 25 Attorneys in South Carolina, SuperLawyers
2023
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2022
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2022
Top 25 Attorneys in South Carolina, SuperLawyers
2021
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2021
Top 25 Attorneys in South Carolina, SuperLawyers
2020
President, American Board of Trial Advocates (South Carolina chapter)
2020
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2019
Best Lawyer, Personal Injury Litigation, Best Lawyers in America
2019
Top Voted Personal Injury Attorney - Legal Elite, Columbia Business Monthly
2019
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2018
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2017
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2016
Compleat Lawyer Award (Silver), University of South Carolina School of Law
2016
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2015
Super Lawyer (2015 - present), SuperLawyers
2015
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2014
Super Lawyer - Rising Star, South Carolina Super Lawyers
2014
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2013
Super Lawyer - Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2013
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2013
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2012
Highly Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2011
South Carolina Lawyers Weekly, Emerging Legal Leader
2006
Claude Sapp Award, University of South Carolina School of Law
2003
BA Major in Government Wofford College, Summa Cum Laude
2003
Government Award, BA Major in Government Wofford College
2003
Outstanding Citizen Award, BA Major in Government Wofford College
N/A
AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
N/A
Trial Lawyer of the Year, American Board of Trial Advocates
N/A
Recognized for work in Litigation – Insurance, Best Lawyers in America
N/A
Leader in the Law” Honor, South Carolina Lawyers Weekly
Work Experience
2011 - Present
Member, Goings Law Firm, LLC
2006 - 2011
Attorney, Collins & Lacy, PC
Associations
2020 - Present
American Board of Trial Advocates- South Carolina ChapterPresident
2019 - Present
International Society of BarristersFellow
2012 - Present
South Carolina BarHouse of Delegates
2011 - Present
South Carolina Bar, Practice and Procedure CommitteeMember
2011 - Present
South Carolina Bar, Young Lawyers DivisionExecutive Committee
2008 - Present
Columbia Rotary ClubMember
2006 - Present
Richland County Bar AssociationMember
2006 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
Defense Research Institute
Former Member
South Carolina Bar
Member
International Society of Primerus Law Firms
Former Member
South Carolina Association for Justice
Member
American Board of Trial Advocates
National Board Representative and Committee Chair
John Belton O’Neall Inn of Court
Member
University of South Carolina School of Law
Alumni Board Member
Litigation Counsel of America
Fellow
Sample of Legal Cases
First South Bank v. Fifth Third Bank
$2,368,232.46 in actual damages and $396,000.00 in Punitive Damages
McCoy v. City of Columbia, C/A No. 5:10-cv-00132-JFA
City paid $300,000; City ordinance declared unconstitutional
Boyd v. Liberty Life Ins. Co. & Selectquote Insurance Co.
Summary Judgment Affirmed
Team IA, Inc. v Lucas, Opinion No. 4889 (SC Ct. App., Sep. 14, 2011)
The South Carolina Court of Appeals reversed summary judgment for defendant and remand for further proceedings.
12,500,000 Jury Verdict (2021)
$5 Million wrongful‑death medical‑malpractice verdict (2024)
$2 Million trip‑and‑fall verdict (2023)
$600,000 rear‑end collision verdict (2023)
Education
2006
University of South Carolina School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2003
Wofford College
BA - Bachelor of Arts - Major in Government
Speaking Engagements
N/A
Rotary Scholars Day
Finding Your Passion
Publications
2013
South Carolina Lawyers Weekly
Attorney Triumphs Over City after Arrest.
2009
South Carolina Bar Association
South Carolina Damages (contributing author)
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
Is it too late to get a personal injury lawyer for myself?
23 Nov 2014
Q&A
When i am released from a doctor do i still receive my workman comp check?
15 Oct 2014
Q&A
I jerked my car to keep from hitting a hugh black bull in the middle of the road,is the owner liable for his bull?
20 Mar 2014
Legal Guides
Legal Guide
IS A TRUCKING COMPANY REQUIRED TO GIVE A DRIVER A DRUG TEST?
15 Mar 2014
Legal Guide
What is Civil Conspiracy in South Carolina?
03 Jan 2014
Legal Guide
What to do if injured from a Trip and Fall or Slip and Fall?
03 Jan 2014