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Stephan Victor Futeral

Divorce and separation Attorney at Mount Pleasant, SC

5.0   12 reviews

also known as Steven Futeral, Steve Futeral

  • Licensed for 30 years
    State SC
    Acquired 1993
    Status
    Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Stephan

Learn Stephan’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    20%
    DUI's, CDV's, traffic charges, drug charges, and other criminal defense matters in state court.

    30 years

  2. DUI and DWI
    20%

  3. Divorce and separation
    20%
    Divorce, separation, child custody and visitation, child support, and alimony.

    30 years

  4. Family
    20%

  5. Personal injury
    20%
    Professional malpractice, auto and boating accidents, trucking accidents, premises liability, products liability, and wrongful death.

    30 years

NOTICE: ANY RESULT STEPHAN FUTERAL OR HIS LAW FIRM MAY ACHIEVE ON BEHALF OF ONE CLIENT IN ONE MATTER DOES NOT NECESSARiLY INDICATE SIMILAR RESULTS CAN BE OBTAINED FOR OTHER CLIENTS. 

Stephan Futeral is an experienced Charleston attorney who handles lawsuits in South Carolina's state and federal courts. As a trial lawyer located near Charleston, South Carolina, Mr. Futeral deals with many types of legal matters involving consumer law, employment law, business law, DUI / DWI defense, personal injury, auto accidents, wrongful death, medical and legal malpractice, products liability, divorces, child custody and visitation, and criminal defense, to name a few.

Before attending college, Stephan Futeral served in the United States Army from 1982 to 1985 and the United States Army National Guard from 1985 to 1987. While in the military, Mr. Futeral worked with strategic nuclear weapons and was a tactical satellite communications operator in the European Theater. He was also a member of the 440 Armor Unit, Fort Carson, Colorado. Further, he participated in such mass military exercises as Return of Forces to Germany and Desert Chief III.

In 1990, Mr. Futeral graduated from the College of Charleston with a B.S. in Business Administration. Throughout his attendance of the College of Charleston, he was a member of the National Dean's List. In 1990, he received the Outstanding Student Award. He also received the National Collegiate Business Merit Award and the All-American Scholarship Award. Mr. Futeral is a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Fraternity.

In 1993, Mr. Futeral received his Juris Doctorate from the University of South Carolina School of Law. While in law school, Mr. Futeral was a member of the Moot Court Bar and the Order of the Barristers. He also was a student editor of the American Bar Association's Real Property and Trust Journal.

After graduating law school, Mr. Futeral was the judicial clerk for the Honorable C. Tolbert Goolsby, Jr., Judge of the South Carolina Court of Appeals. Thereafter, he practiced law in Columbia, South Carolina for several years until returning to his hometown of Charleston, South Carolina. Mr. Futeral is a partner in the law firm of Futeral & Nelson, LLC and has been an Adjunct Professor of Law at the Charleston School of Law. He has written articles for the South Carolina Lawyer magazine and the American Bar Association Magazine. Further, he has published a legal annotation regarding the South Carolina Unfair Trade Practices Act in South Carolina Jurisprudence. He has been an instructor for the South Carolina Mandatory Magistrate's School and, in 1997, taught the paralegal certification program in Charleston sponsored by the University of South Carolina. Mr. Futeral frequently lectures to non-lawyers and attorneys on such topics as personal injury practice and employment law.

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Contact Stephan

Similar lawyers nearby

Futeral & Nelson, LLC
1004 Anna Knapp Blvd.
2nd Floor
Mount Pleasant, SC, 29464

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  12 customer reviews
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Posted by Bruce | February 8, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest and Dependable
Stephan helped me and my family regarding a recent legal matter in South Carolina. We wed re very pleases with his advice and professionalism. I highly recommend Stephan to anyone who needs a lawyer.
Posted by anonymous | March 5, 2015
Highly recommend Mr. Futeral
As a former client of Mr. Futeral's, I can attest to his professionalism and sincere care that he invests in his clients. Mr. Futeral was highly communicative and informative in each of our interactions. He not only gave legal advice to me, but was also empathetic and kind-hearted in what I would consider to be one of the hardest times in my life. I highly recommend him.
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Response from Stephan Futeral March 5, 2015
Thank you so much for leaving a review. It was my pleasure to help you. I wish you the best in the future.
Posted by anonymous | September 11, 2014
He's a great lawyer and kind hearted too!
He is a knowledgeable, trustworthy and in my experience with lawyers, the classiest lawyer in SC that I had the privelage to work with briefly. I would have kept him longer but he was unable to travel to Conway, SC to represent me since his office is in Mount Pleasant. He's a kind man and has a sweet staff. Stephan go out there and fight for what's right when it comes to these children, be guided by what's true and honest.
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Response from Stephan Futeral September 12, 2014
I just received an email about your review. Clients always have a lot on their plate to deal with. That is why I am truly moved by folks who take time out of their lives to write a review here on AVVO or on Google Reviews. I cannot thank you enough for your kind words. They encourage me and let me know that I am doing right by the people I try to help. If you ever need me again, I'll be here!
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Posted by Ashley | October 1, 2013
Very Pleased Client
My husband and I are very impressed with the professionalism and quality of service provided by Stephan Futeral and his staff. I would HIGHLY recommend this firm. I am a very pleased client!
Posted by William | November 7, 2012
Clarity and patience
I consulted with Mr. Futeral to review a new lease agreement containing an obscure addendum that seemingly exposed me to considerable liability. He patiently listened to my concerns, and our discussion greatly clarified my thinking about the issues posed by the new lease. I was also pleased to find that Mr. Futeral was already well informed about matters embodied in the addendum, despite this being a relatively new area of the law in which other lawyers had been unable to provide much guidance for me. By the end of our consultation, I was satisfied that I had a good course of action and understood the points that I needed to negotiate with the landlord. Happily, the landlord agreed to a clarification of the lease that was satisfactory to both parties, but even if that had not happened, I felt that my consultation with Mr. Futeral equipped me to choose from several alternative resolutions that all would have served my best interests. I am very pleased with the advice and insight I received from Mr. Futeral, and without question I will turn to him again the next time I need legal advice.
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Posted by anonymous | October 22, 2012
Detailed, Diligent, and Dedicated
Stephan was very helpful in our matter especially when things got tense. He is cool, calm, and collected 110% of the time. I would highly recommend Stephan for any litigation matter.
Posted by anonymous | October 11, 2012
Top notch lawyer with a vast knowledge base
Stephen has a great knowledge base and great ability to adapt from issue to issue. His ability to digest complex issues and allows him to provide a service that gives the client the trusted advisor he/she needs.
Posted by Bobby | October 6, 2012
Stephan Futeral Cares
I've used Mr. Futeral's services several times over the years. I have always been completely satisfied with his firm. Stephan really cares about his clients and it shows in his work ethic. I have recommended him to many of my friends and family members. All have been pleased.
Posted by Rod | October 4, 2012
Extremely satisfied with the process and results
Stephan has represented me on more than one occasion with very good results. I have referred many friends and fellow business owners to Stephan who were also very satisfied with his professionalism and more importantly, the results. I have no hesitation to continue to refer his services.
Posted by Kyle | September 6, 2012
Professional and thorough, I've recommended Mr. Futeral to several friends.
Mr. Futeral has represented my interest in a case regarding city code violations. Mr. Futeral was very thorough with his knowledge of city law and impressed me with his research to exhaust all of my options. At all times, Mr. Futeral was professional and courteous with all parties involved and succinctly articulated his interpretation of the law and its application to my case. After discussions with our judge and opposing counsel, Mr. Futeral negotiated favorable terms which led to a favorable outcome. I would use his services again, and have recommend his services to friends and family.
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Posted by anonymous | September 5, 2012
Excellent, diligent advocate for clients!
Like many people, I never thought I would need to hire an attorney. But, last fall, I found myself in a legal predicament, and turned to Mr. Futeral for help. Not only was he compassionate and understanding as I relayed the events leading me to contact him, but I felt like he was asking all of the right questions in a non-accusatory or judgmental manner. Mr. Futeral handled my case professionally, providing routine updates, and explaining the process of the particular court my case was assigned to. Never once did I doubt his expertise or advice. His courtroom demeanor was equally, if not more impressive than our client interactions.Mr. Futeral was a strong advocate for my case, and it ultimately ended with a result I was satisfied with. I would highly recommend Mr. Futeral to anyone needing legal services.
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Posted by Clifford | October 10, 2011
GOOD LAWYER IN CHARLESTON
Have had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Futeral for over 30 years. While that is a bonus, the level of expertise that I have witness and had the pleasure of experiencing is of the highest level! Mr. Futeral stands by his clients with ethical, moral, and most of all, CARING expertise and practices. Have recommended Mr. Futeral to many folks all of which were impressed and happy with his knowledge of the Law and his handling of their case. By hiring Mr. Futeral to represent you you ARE GETTING great service with as little stress as possible!
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Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 250-450 per hour
  • Contingency 33%-40%
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Partner
  • Futeral & Nelson
  • 2004 - Present
  • Adjunct Professor
  • Charleston School Of Law
  • 2005 - 2008
  • Partner
  • Robertson & Futeral, PA
  • 2002 - 2004
  • Associate
  • Finkel & Altman
  • 1999 - 2002
  • Associate
  • Lide, Montgomery, Potts & Medlock
  • 1997 - 1999
  • Associate
  • Law Offices of Joseph McCulloch
  • 1996 - 1997
  • Associate
  • Chappell and Smith
  • 1994 - 1996
  • Law Clerk
  • South Carolina Court Of Appeals
  • 1993 - 1994
  • Communications
  • Army National Guard
  • 1985 - 1987
  • Tactical Satellite Communications Terminal Operator
  • United States Army
  • 1982 - 1985
View all work experience

Education

  • University of South Carolina School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1993
  • College of Charleston
  • B.S.
  • 1990

Legal Cases

  • Babb v. Estate of Watson
  • Affirmed
  • Sheep Island Plantation, LLC v. Bar-Pen Investments, LLC
  • Reversed and remanded
  • McMillan v. S.C. Dept. of Corrections, 16 F.Supp. 2d 635 (D.S.C. 1997)
  • Summary Judgment Granted
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Therapy Dogs, Inc.
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • United States Supreme Court Bar
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 2006 - Present
  • South Carolina Association for Justice
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 1998 - Present
  • U.S. District Court, District of South Carolina
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 1995 - Present
  • Charleston County Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 1994 - Present
  • South Carolina Bar
  • Admitted to Practice
  • 1993 - Present
  • South Carolina Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 1993 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • German

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2015
  • AV Peer Review Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2013
  • AV Peer Review Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2012
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2011
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2010
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2009
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2008
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2007
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2006
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2005
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2004
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2003
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2002
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2001
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2000
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 1999
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 1998
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 1997
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 1996
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 1995
  • Certificate of Meritorious Service
  • ABA Real Property, Probate, and Trust Journal
  • 1993
  • Outstanding Student Award
  • College of Charleston
  • 1990
  • Certificate of Achievement. Outstanding Service During Reforager
  • U.S. Army
  • 1985
View all awards

Publications

  • The Biggest Legal Mistakes Physicians Make and How to Avoid Them, Seak, Inc.
  • The 10 Biggest Legal Mistakes Physicians Make After Filing for Divorce
  • 2005
  • ABA General Practice, Solo and Small Firm Section, Volume 16 No. 4
  • Developing a Firm Web Site
  • 1999
  • 28 S.C. Jurisprudence, West Group
  • Unfair Trade Practices Act
  • 1998
  • South Carolina Lawyer
  • Public Impact: The Stumbling Block to Stating a Private Cause of Action Under the South Carolina Unfair Trade Practices Act
  • 1995
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • South Carolina Bar Annual Convention
  • Claims for Damages to Your Pets
  • 2015
  • South Carolina Bar Annual Convention
  • Animal Law - An Emerging Legal Frontier
  • 2014
  • Tech Savvy Law Practice and Ethics of Cloud Computing.
  • Cloud Computing Ethics / iPad Apps for Lawyers
  • 2013
  • echnology to Win Cases & Streamline Your Practice
  • Technology to Win Cases & Streamline Your Practice
  • 2013
  • Legal Clinic: Charleston County Public Library
  • Family Law Issues
  • 2009
  • Continuing Legal Education Seminar
  • Top Ten Things You Need to Know: Tort Law
  • 2000
  • Continuing Legal Education Seminar
  • The Internet for Attorneys
  • 1996
  • Educational Seminar
  • Personal Injury Practice for Paralegals
  • 1995
  • Continuing Legal Education Seminar
  • Computer Technology: Making the Right Choices for Your Law Office
  • 1995
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (16)
Given (13)
Endorse Stephan
Litigation Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I've known Stephan since law school. I've worked with him on several matters over the years. He's a talented lawyer who zealously advocates for his clients. He's also tech savvy and uses technology in his practice to manage complex litigation other lawyers could not handle. I highly recommend him and regularly refer clients to him."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I think very highly of Stephen Futeral both personally and professionally. I first met him when we took a class together many years ago. It was a small group training for 40 hours, and the participants got to know each other pretty well. It was then that I first noticed his keen analytical ability, strong work ethic, technological savvy, and common sense. Over the years, I've referred clients to him and have only heard good comments from people I've sent his way."
Personal injury Attorney | May 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Stephan is one of the hardest working and smartest attorney's in our state. I have known Stephan for several years and I have consulted with him on criminal, family and personal injury cases."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Apr 20
Relationship: Friend
"I have known Mr. Futeral for several years and have the utmost respect for his legal abilities. He has the experience and knowledge to give his clients that real edge they need in any high stakes litigation. If you want one of the best Charleston attorneys, you should not delay calling Mr. Futeral."
Family Attorney | Apr 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Oct 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Stephan is a skilled and thorough attorney. He is well respected in the community and I would not hesitate to turn to him for my own legal needs if need be. I have referred several clients to Stephan and trust that he would represent their interests vigorously."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Stephan Futeral is nationally known and respected among clients and peers. He is a true leader and has created and been active in numerous law Social Media Communities and Attorney networking. He is a vast amount of knowledge and litigation experience in multiple practice areas including family law, personal injury, DUI, and criminal defense. I have had the fortune of engaging, and sharing his high quality and useful law articles he posts on social media and national press releases. On a personal note, I highly admire and respect his organized efforts in non-profit animal rescue, and fostering. I also extend my gratitude for his military service in the United States Army."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Stephan knows his stuff."
Personal injury Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Stephan is dedicated to his clients. He is a regular blogger for the legal community on personal injury, and family law. He regularly comments on SC law, and moderates Legally Speaking, a chat room for legal topics. I believe him to be dedicated, and hard working. I recommend him to you."
Personal injury Attorney | Jan 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent asset to our legal community."
Personal injury Attorney | Jan 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I fully endorse and recommend Stephan Futeral as an excellent lawyer for clients in South Carolina. He has knowledge and experience in a large number of practice areas including personal injury, criminal defense and family law. Stephan is extremely knowledgeable about these areas of law and many others. He is a skilled and zealous legal advocate. Stephan is a co-host of Legally Speaking, a Google Hangout on Air. Each week they discuss issues related to law. These are extremely informative both for lawyers and non-lawyers. Stephan also developed JuryPad, a jury selection mobile App, which is very functional and easy to use. In summary, I would fully recommend and endorse Stephan Futeral for clients in Charleston and throughout South Carolina."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Nov 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse and highly recommend attorney Stephan Futeral to everyone and anyone seeking a first rate litigation attorney. Stephan has earned the respect and admiration of other members of the legal community. He has extensive knowledge of Divorce, DUI/DWI, Family, Criminal Defense and Personal Injury law. He has written numerous articles about Divorce, Criminal Defense, DUI and Personal Injury matters and has published the leading iPad app for jury selection, JuryPad, that is now available to help lawyers with their jury trials. - http://benchandbarllc.com/ Stephan is an excellent attorney who cares about his clients, always evidencing the highest degree of professionalism and passion in his practice. Hire him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Stephen is a great contributor to the legal community and is always willing to give his valued opinion on certain aspects of a legal topic or discussion. I respect his opinion and endorse him as a Criminal Attorney in South Carolina."
Litigation Attorney | Oct 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Litigation Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Other
"I fully endorse this lawyer. I have had several lively debates with Mr. Futeral over the years, and he is always very thoughtful and knowledgeable about the law, and seems to be quite concerned about the well being of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Stephan for more than twenty years. I know him to be an honest and hard working attorney who gives his all for his clients."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense
Car accident
Criminal defense
Personal injury
Personal injury
Criminal defense
Divorce and separation
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI