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Susan Elizabeth Williams
also known as Susan E. Williams @carolinaladylawyer, Susan Williams
About Susan
Biography
I am a native South Carolinian. After graduating from high school, I went on to the University of South Carolina, proud to be a Gamecock fan. Shortly after my freshman year I was held up at gunpoint and carjacked. It was a frightening ordeal, but in the end I "made lemonade out of lemons" and decided to pursue a career in Criminal Justice. I completed an internship in the SC State House and another internship at the Richland County Drug Court. I was so excited about the prospect of being a lawyer that I graduated in three and a half years from USC with a 3.7 GPA by taking summer school courses (that, combined with my AP credits from high school). I always had some kind of part time job. I babysat before I was old enough to work. I was incredibly driven and realized quickly the harder I worked, the more I accomplished. I worked in a small ladies clothing store, Hallmark card stores, was an academic tutor in college, helped students with disabilities, had holiday employment at the mall, and even landed a job as a courier at a small law firm (Tompkins and McMaster Law Firm in Columbia, South Carolina).That little law firm had some powerful lawyers that encouraged and inspired me. I ended up getting into law school and I knew I would be happy doing exactly what I enjoyed. And I was right. I was the first lawyer, and first lady lawyer in the history of my family. And I wasn't finished making history.
First year law students are encouraged not to work due to the demanding academic work load. Not working and being a full time student was a laughable, foreign concept for me. I had a part time job as a nanny for Thad Myers, a local attorney in Columbia, SC. As luck would have it, the law firm where Thad worked needed a law clerk and guess who got the job!
Home Grown- It was a big break for me and I loved every minute working for the infamous James C. Anders and Associates. The building where I worked was an old historic home-turned-office space and it was beautiful...it looked like a museum. It was the nicest house I had ever seen. I was grateful for my very own small desk space in the basement of the old house. There were copies of checks on the walls of multimillion dollar verdicts prooving their success and I was fortunate enough to be there researching cases, learning the law, rubbing elbows, being a team player, taking it all in!The lawyers there were brilliant, creative, colorful, and were well known and well respected in the community. NBC's Dateline followed one of the cases. The lawyers worked on cases sometimes made national news (The Susan Smith case), and all of my opportunities were just right there in front of me. I worked alongside Keith Giese, who was a key lawyer in prosecuting the case against Susan Smith that made national headlines. My boss, Jim Anders prosecuted Pee Wee Gaskins. The Anders law firm was a long ways from the farm where I grew up!
I Had a Great Mentor- A self made man, the late Jim Anders always told me, "you have to get some trial experience before you can start winning verdicts like these." Anders, who tried the infamous case of serial killer "Pee Wee" Gaskins encouraged me to get some "real" trial experience at the Solicitor's Office, which is where he began.
I followed his advice and started working at the Dorchester County Solicitor's Office where I gained more trial and "in court" experience than I ever thought possible. I was actually trying cases, and not just researching. Jury after jury convicted sex offenders, domestic violence abusers, child abusers, and other derilects. For 4 years I tried cases and enjoyed my job immensely. I learned first-hand what the State needed to prove someone guilty. I met and tried cases with various defense attorneys. I learned their tactics, studied their legal theories, and dooked out cases with them. I loved it! It really doesn't feel like work when you get to do something everyday you enjoy and are passionate about.
Why I Started My Own Law Firm- With all the education, life experience, and necessary trial experience under my belt, it was time for me to open my own practice. People always ask me, how can you switch sides...go from prosecuting to defending? That's easy... everyone has constitutional rights. If I was arrested and was innocent, I would want the best representation I could get. I use the experiences from the Solicitor's office, from my humble beginnings in rural South Carolina, my experience at Anders' firm, and, yes, even from the carjacking in my practice now. I give my clients the one on one attention they deserve.
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
Fees and Rates
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in South Carolina for 21 years
State: South Carolina
Acquired: 2004
No misconduct found
Location
Law Office of Susan E. Williams
207 East 3rd North Street, Summerville, SC, 29483
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Susan Elizabeth Williams's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 147 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by anonymous | January 13, 2026 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Professional skilled wonderful Attorney.
Attorney Susan Williams is the best hands-down. She is professional yet personal at the same time she truly makes you feel like you’re the only client she has. She works so hard and diligently on your case. She is a true angel. 100% over I would recommend her to anybody that has any legal trouble tha...
Posted by anonymous | December 10, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Highly recommend
Our experience with Susan Williams was great from the first day we spoke on the phone. She gave advice and expressed confidence that we needed at the time. Everything did work out in our favor and we highly recommend her and her staff.
Posted by Gina | September 19, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
My Son's Case
I interviewed several other highly qualified and well known lawyers prior to hiring Susan for my son's case. My son’s case was a bit straightforward to prove his innocence, but we needed more than straightforward; through Susan’s expertise and connections within the court system, she secured a full ...
Posted by Linda | September 3, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
She is always available for you.
She is very professional,walked me through every step and answered all my questions.
Posted by Seph | July 23, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
The Thorough Lawyer
From beginning to end ms. Williams was professional. Even the court baliffs’ raved about how even her in-court professionalism. Intake process was a sail She really gets to know you, the situation and the best outcomes She handled the case and got me the outcome I wanted
Susan Elizabeth Williams's Lawyer Endorsements
"I have been working with Susan the past couple of years on several DUI cases. She is dedicated to learning the science of breath testing and the field sobriety tests. I admire her determination to not let opinion not based in fact be used against her clients. She is a warrior for them."
"I been practicing DWI law for quite some time and know I natural when I see one. Susan Williams has a natural presence and ease about her. She understands the SC DUI laws and the nuances of presenting a defense. Yet, there is something more about her. She is personable, a good communicator, and has a sense of humor in discussing an extraordinarily complex area of the law. I highly endorse Susan Williams. Bill Powers NBTA Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist"
"I met Susan at a DUI/DWI CLE where she spoke about SFST’s and trial strategy and was very impressed with her knowledge, enthusiasm and interest in being the best defense attorney she can be. Lowcountry defendant’s in need of a DUI or DUAC defense attorney should absolutely hire her!"
"I endorse this lawyer. Susan is caring, capable, and concerned about her clients. I would recommend her to any client seeking a excellent criminal law attorney."
"I endorse this lawyer. She works hard for her client's to get the best results possible."
"I am proud to know and recommend Susan as an attorney. She has integrity, knowledge, and tenacity. All of these are necessary qualities to be a good attorney! Susan is always willing to lend a hand, and she is very reasonable in evaluating cases. I enjoy working on matters when she is opposing counsel."
"As a former prosecutor, I know that Susan is relentless when working for her clients. She works tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome."
"Susan Williams is a very dedicated and competent lawyer. I have known Susan going on 14 years and have seen her work in the courtroom. She has a knack for being very professional and getting the results she wants for her clients by being prepared and convincing. When I have the opportunity, I like to refer her cases in the Dorchester, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton and surrounding areas. Her reputation among other lawyers is outstanding. I would feel 100% confident in hiring Susan Williams."
"I endorse the heck out of this lawyer."
"Susan Williams is a dedicated and passionate criminal defense attorney. She is knowledgeable on the law, and most importantly, she knows how to use it in the defense of her clients."
"Susan is a very diligent and professional attorney who genuinely cares about her clients. I have been extremely impressed with her performance in the courtroom."
"I endorse this lawyer. Susan is organized, efficient and conscientious."
"Susan Williams is as organized and efficient as anyone I have ever seen. She represents her clients with top-notch professionalism. I endorse her."
"I endorse this lawyer. Susan Williams has earned her reputation as an experienced and knowledgeable advocate who raises her clients' probability of a successful defense."
"Susan is a tireless defender of her client's rights. She is well-respected in our local bar association and is known as a seasoned advocate and excellent defense attorney. I endorse this lawyer."
"10 years of experience with 5 as a prosecutor is court experienced. She has a huge advantage over other defense attorneys as a former prosecutor. "They know that she knows what they know". Knowledge of criminal law and procedure is excellent and evident in her pro bono contributions. Do yourself a favor and schedule a consultation with her first."
"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. She is a compassionate and exceedingly competent advocate for her clients and their best interests."
"I have known Susan as an attorney for quite some time. As a former prosecutor and now defense attorney, she is quite capable at handling criminal cases and receives my full endorsement."
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Experience
Honors
2021
Certificate: DUI Detection and SFT Testing, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
2021
Course Director, DUI Defense Lawyers Association www.duidla.org
2019
President, Dorchester County, SC Bar Association
2018
AV Preeminate Rated (highest level of professional excellence), Martindale-Hubbell
2018
Gold Client Champion Award, Martindale-Hubbell
2017
2017 Elite Lawyers of the South (www.ALM.com), The National Law Journal
2017
Cumulative 5 out of 5 star rating on 34 total Google reviews, Google My Business
2017
Client's Choice Award, Avvo
2017
Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2002
Honor Council (elected by peers and also elected officer), University of South Carolina School of Law
2001
Member, South Carolina Environmental Law Journal
2001
Member, Phi Delta Phi Legal Fraternity
2001
Member, USC School of Law Environmental Law Journal
1998
Cum Laude (graduated with honors), University of South Carolina
1998
Graduated from college in 3.5 years, University of South Carolina
1998
President's List (4.0 Semester GPA), University of South Carolina
1997
Dean's List, University of South Carolina
Work Experience
2009 - Present
Attorney, Law Office of Susan E. Williams
2020 - 2022
Chief Municipal Judge, Town of Edisto Beach (Legal Disclaimer: this does not suggest misleading, comparative, demeaning the office of judge, or suggestive of some unethical advantage, such as influence over current judges, law enforcement, etc.)
2011 - 2016
Attorney, Fraternal Order Of Police
2011 - 2018
Panel Attorney, United States District Court, District of South Carolina, Criminal Justice Act
2005 - 2009
Prosecuting Attorney, Dorchester County, First Circuit Solicitor's Office
2004 - 2004
Law Clerk, McGowan, Hood & Felder (break off law firm of James C. Anders & Associates)
2000 - 2003
Law Clerk, James C. Anders & Associates
1998 - 1998
Firearms Division, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
1998 - 1998
General Assembly Intern, South Carolina Legislative Council
1998 - 1998
Drug Court Intern, Richland County Solicitor's Office
1997 - 1998
Legal Assistant, Tompkins & McMaster Law Firm
1995 - 1998
Academic Tutor, USC Office of Disabilities Services
Associations
2018 - Present
South Carolina Women Lawyers AssociationMember
2018 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense AttorneysMember
2016 - Present
Women's ClubMember
2015 - Present
Charleston County Bar AssociationMember
2012 - Present
South Carolina Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
2004 - Present
South Carolina Bar AssociationMember
2018 - 2019
National Association of Women LawyersMember
2017 - 2021
Driving Under the Influence Defense Lawyers AssociationMember
2016 - 2017
SC Department of Natural ResourcesVolunteer
2015 - 2016
Dorchester County BarMember
2001 - 2002
University of South Carolina School of LawCo-chair
2000 - 2001
Co ed Softball TeamMember
1996 - 1997
University of South Carolina Athletics DepartmentAcademic Tutor
1996 - 1998
Carolina ClassicsMember
Education
2002
University of South Carolina School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1998
University of South Carolina
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2025
Beaufort County Bar Association
Ethics
2025
2025 Reese Joye Memorial DUI Seminar
Ethics
2024
2024 Annual Convention - SC Association for Justice
Ethics: Doing the Right Thing When No One is Looking
2023
NCHS "Her"Story: Women's History Month March 2023
Empowered Women Empower Women
2023
NACDL’s Year End Ethics Grab
Ethics and Fee Agreements: An Interactive Online Discussion
2023
NACDL's 16th Annual Seminar: Defending Modern Drug Cases: Las Vegas, Nevada
Ethics and Fee Agreements
2023
Apple Podcast: Ask a Lawyer with Steve Sleeper
DUI Litigation
2023
2023 SCACDL & Beaufort County Bar Seminar
Ethical Issues Concerning Attorney Fees and Fee Agreements
2023
2023 Reese Joye Memorial DUI Seminar
The Breathalyzer: More Than Just a Number
2021
2021
Career Day at Cane Bay High School, Summerville, SC
A day in the life as a criminal defense lawyer
2020
This is an Apple Podcast
The Direct Examination: The Lean Law Firm
2020
Dorchester County Bar Association Continuing Legal Education
Ethics and Advertising
2020
Defending the Modern Drug Case
Defending the Modern Drug Case: Ethics and Reputation Management
2020
2020 SC Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Reese Joye DUI Seminar
DUI Field Sobriety Tests
2020
2020 Defending Modern Drug Cases Seminar
Online Presence and Reputation Management: The Ethics of Legal Advertising
2019
Not a conference: it is an online educational system with youth with learning disabilities and IEP's
Individualized Education Programs
2018
Pinelands Group Home: Speaking Engagement
Goals
2018
Momentum: DWI and DUI Advocacy
DUI Field Sobriety Tests
2017
Domestic Violence (Applied Continuing Legal Education)
Domestic Violence in SC
2015
Juvenile Criminal Defense in SC (This was a speaking engagement to law students, not a conference)
Juvenile Criminal Defense in SC
Publications
2025
www.swilliams-law.net
Consequences of a Felony Conviction in SC
2025
2024
www,swilliams-law.net
Obstruction of Justice in SC
2024
www.swilliams-law.net
2024 SC Gun Laws: What does "Constitutional Carry" in SC mean?
2024
www.swilliams-law.net
SC DUI Ignition Interlock Devices and Rules
2023
www.swilliams-law.net
Are DUI Checkpoints Legal in SC?
2023
www.swilliams-law.net
What Happens if You Miss a Court Date in SC?
2023
www.swilliams-law.net
Conditional Discharge for SC Drug Cases
2021
www.swilliams-law.net
What is the SC Driving Points System?
2021
www.swilliams-law.net
Breach of Trust with Fraudulent Intent in SC
2021
www.swilliams-law.net
Is Identity Theft a Crime in SC?
2021
www.swilliams-law.net
Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor in SC: Charges and Penalties
2020
www.swilliams-law.net
Everything you need to know about criminal state and federal criminal conspiracies
2020
www.swilliams-law.net
SC's two strikes and sometimes three strikes law
2020
www.swilliams-law.net
Assault and Battery: The Complete List of Charges
2020
www.swilliams-law.net
Burglary in SC: Charges and Penalties
2020
www.swilliams-law.net
Motion to Modify Bond Condition in SC: No Contact with Victim
2020
www.swilliams-law.net
Getting someone out of jail in SC
2020
www.swilliams-law.net
Confidential informants aka "snitches" exposed
2020
www.swilliams-law.net
SC Boating Under the Influence Laws and Consequences
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
Top 10 Questions about the Breathalyzer Test
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
Is your loved one struggling with alcoholism?
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
How has the #metoo movement impacted accusations of domestic violence
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
Helping At Risk Youth: Preventing Juvenile Delinquency
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
Getting back on the road after an alcohol-related incident
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
What happens after a DUI arrest in SC?
2019
Reader's Digest
13 Subtle Driving Mistakes That Could Get You Pulled Over
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
SC DUI Laws: Everything You Need to Know
2019
Federal News Network
Business Strategies to get Work Done with Fewer Staffers
2019
Upjourney.com
How to Manage a Small Law Firm
2019
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
Grand Larceny in SC
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
What are the laws on THC Vape Oil in SC?
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
DUI Checkpoints: do they make the roads safer?
2019
www.swilliams-law.net
Signs of Domestic Violence & Abuse
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
Overview of White Collar Crime Charges in SC
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
8 Questions and Answers about Electronic Monitoring
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
Embezzlement in SC
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
Top 17 questions about SC Federal Drug Cases
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
Federal Sentencing Guidelines
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
What to expect at Federal Sentencing Hearings
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
SC Field Sobriety Tests: Part 1: Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
SC Field Sobriety Tests Part 2: Walk and Turn
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
SC Field Sobriety Tests Part 3: The One Leg Stand
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
SC Field Sobriety Tests: Part 3: Breathalyzer Test
2018
www.swilliams-law.net
5 Defenses to DUI cases in SC
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
SC Youthful Offender Act: Who, What, When, Where and Why
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
Everything you need to know about Cocaine charges in SC
2017
Swilliams-law.net
Everything you need to know about Heroin charges in SC
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
Crack Cocaine 101
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
13 Questions regarding Bench Warrants in SC
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
What to do about Juvenile abuse at DJJ (Department of Juvenile Justice)
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
The ABCs of Suppression Hearings in SC
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
Grand Larceny in SC: punishment, charges, fines, jail time
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
10 Questions and Answers about House Arrest in SC
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
Armed Robbery: Fines, Penalties, Jail Time
2017
www.swilliams-law.net
Arraignments in SC Federal Court
2016
www.swilliams-law.net
Meth in SC
2016
www.swilliams-law.net
What is a pretrial conference in SC?
2016
www.swilliams-law.net
How much are court costs in SC?
2016
www.swilliams-law.net
Shoplifting questions in SC
2016
www.swilliams-law.net
How to Get a No Contact Order Dropped in SC
2016
www.swilliams-law.net
Marijuana in SC
2016
www..swilliams-law.net
Rights at DUI Checkpoints
2016
www.swilliams-law.net
What to do if there is a warrant for your arrest in SC
2016
www.swilliams-law.net
9 questions about DUI in SC
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
I was caught shoplifting in a grocery store, only <$40 of items. I didn’t get arrested but I have court coming up. Need advice
07 May 2018
Q&A
How can I get my boyfriend's bench warrant lifted?
04 Apr 2016
Q&A
How do I remove a traffic ticket from my record
28 Mar 2016