Licensed for 15 years

State SC

Acquired 2008

Status
Good Standing No misconduct found

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

Max Nathan Pickelsimer

Divorce and separation Attorney at Rock Hill, SC

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Divorcee

Domestic - Child Jurisdiction Case

I hired Max Pickelsimer to assist in a domestic dispute in South Carolina. I live in Ohio, and did not know any attorneys in that area, but Max talked to me and agreed to represent the fairly complicated case. Max was very attentive from the start, and very knowledgeable about the law. Max arranged for a deposition, and he managed it perfectly uncovering many untruths in the case. When it came time to present in from of the judge, Max was prepared, confident, and very influential in his arguments. In the end, he prevailed in his end of the dispute. I appreciate all that Max did for me in my case, and would definitely recommend his services!

About Max

Learn Max’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Divorce and separation

25%

I help my clients navigate their way through the emotional and financial rollercoaster that awaits them as they work to resolve issues of support, property division, child custody, and divorce.
... Read more
15 years
Child custody

20%

Often changes in circumstances arise after divorce that makes it necessary to revisit child custody. I assist my clients in working to protect the interests of their children.

15 years
Family

20%

My practice is devoted to issues involving and affecting the family. Whether it is divorce, separation, child custody, or spousal support, I am ready to help you seek the resolution you and your children deserve.
... Read more
15 years
Alimony

10%
Child support

10%
Marriage and prenuptials

5%

15 years
Mediation

5%

I am a certified family law mediator, and a portion of my practice is devoted to assisting families resolve issues of child custody, property division, alimony, and child support through the process of mediation.
... Read more
8 years
Uncontested divorce

5%

I am a Member of the firm, Gillen & Pickelsimer, LLC, where I focus my practice on matters involving the family. I have been fortunate to receive an AV Preeminent rating by Martindale-Hubbell. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Newberry College, and my Master of Criminal Justice and Juris Doctor degrees from the University of South Carolina.

Whether the issue is a divorce; child custody; parenting time; spousal and child support; property division; division of retirement benefits; tax consequences of divorce; mediation and arbitration; annulments; paternity; prenuptial and postnuptial agreements; change of domicile; or post-judgment proceedings, the investigative and conflict resolution skills I developed during my 16+ years as a law enforcement officer, coupled with my knowledge and experience in family law, equip me well to serve the best interests of my clients.

I know that the legal process can be confusing. Keeping this in mind, I am committed to ensure that my clients know what to expect along each step of their cases, and I am sensitive and responsive to all questions my clients may have concerning the legal process. Having personally experienced a divorce, I understand the emotional impact a divorce has on both parents and their children. I make it a point to keep my clients focused on their children and how their decisions and actions throughout the case will impact them. Because of my concern for children, I am also privileged to serve as a Guardian ad litem in cases, where I advocate for best interests of children in custody disputes.

While in law school, I served as a member of the South Carolina Law Review, which is the principal legal publication in South Carolina. My article "Attorney Malpractice in Will Drafting: Will South Carolina Expand Privity to Impose a Duty to Intended Beneficiaries of a Will?" was published in South Carolina Law Review and has been cited by the South Carolina Supreme Court, in a published opinion, and various legal publications. I have also served as an adjunct faculty member for Newberry College and Piedmont Technical College, and I have made presentations at Continuing Legal Education courses on the topics of Securities Fraud, Expert Witness Testimony, and Spyware. I have several published decisions in the South Carolina Court of Appeals and Supreme Court of South Carolina.

With regard to any endorsements or reviews appearing on this site, please note that results achieved on behalf of one client in one matter does not necessarily indicate similar results can be obtained for other clients.

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Contact Max

Gillen & Pickelsimer, LLC

(803) 373-1985 Office

1772 Ebenezer Road

Rock Hill, SC, 29732

gplawsc.com/

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

14 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | March 7, 2015

Divorcee

Max was hired to handle my complicated divorce matter. He worked thoroughly and diligently to provide the best counsel to see me through this matter. I have never been disappointed in his work. He was highly recommended to me as the best person to handle my situation.

Posted by Mark | October 18, 2013

Domestic - Child Jurisdiction Case

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Posted by Monica | June 28, 2023

The wierdest divorce ever made simple

Mr. Pickelsimer very simply and professionally achieved my divorce from a man I had not seen in 25 years. I feel free now and am very grateful to he and Elizabeth for the professionalism and work ethic they exhibited. Every email answered promptly and, every question answered promptly. Just good people.

Posted by Melody | July 27, 2022

Easing the Stress

My father and I contacted Max Pickelsimer after researching the best divorce and separation attorneys in the Carolinas, and after discovering Max's long history in the justice system prior to his practice. During our initial in-person conversation with Max, we decided he was our man. Down-to-earth, truthful, highly knowledgeable of the law, and transparent, he rapidly built our trust. He was complimented by members of his office staff, most noticeably, his secretary, Ms. Elizabeth, who spoke with me like she would a friend, making me feel calmer. My father's health had not been good, and I was concerned about the negative effects that could be brought on by too much stress. While there was indeed stress, Max and Elizabeth did all they could to alleviate this just by being extremely competent, communicative, and kind. Max told us about the laws that protected my dad, and let both of us know what was next in the process, every step of the way. He was right by our side in every instance. It was like a shield was put up for us. It is all over, now, and the results were stellar. I would recommend Max to anyone who is honest and fearful of the process. And you know, that old boy, Max, went and married Ms. Elizabeth, as is only right. Congratulations!

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Posted by Caroline | July 7, 2022

Accountant

Max did an amazing job working through my divorce. He was extremely professional in the court room and very prepared during all preparation. Thank you Max!

Posted by S | December 10, 2021

Your Advocate & Your Voice

It's difficult to know where to begin regarding Max & his paralegal, Elizabeth - even more difficult to make this concise as so much could be shared. Max was absolutely an advocate for me - while I'm well aware it sounds cliche, I believe he genuinely cared about me as both a client & a person. His advice was consistently sound & direct - as other reviewers wrote, ..."he's empathetic" ..."he's highly knowledgeable"..."he cuts through the BS" - these things allow you to make the best/most informed decisions. In my case I was dealing with a highly-irrational counterparty - admittedly, one that had an ability to work me into a bit of a panic. Max was great at helping me keep things in perspective as he confidently directed me to focus my energy on my children while he focused his energy on the litigation. Max also, through experience & instinct, knew when to remain firm as well as when it may be acceptable to compromise - he was highly in-tune with forecasting what was likely to come, allowing us to be better prepared when those forecasts came to fruition. His paralegal, Elizabeth, was also excellent. She was knowledgeable, friendly, available & very genuine. If you're reading this litigation might be on your horizon. Especially in family court, you have far too much at risk. Please, protect yourself....speak to Max/Elizabeth & allow him/them to be your advocate & your voice.

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Posted by JoBeth | September 8, 2021

Max Pickelsimer will help you’

Max Pickelsimer’s representation helped me BIG TIME in my challenging divorce. I was in the middle of my divorce and had just fired my previous counsel and hired Max. Max took on my case with confidence, expertise, and a fine toothed comb from day one. Elizabeth his paralegal is helpful and quick and professional. Max kept me in the correspondence between the opposing parties attorney, and also the guardian ad litem. Not all attorneys do this. Mediation is NO joke, Max’s calm empathetic demeanor helped me make the best decisions possible for myself and my children. He represented me with determination. His honesty and boundaries saved me money and helped me keep myself in check. Max Pickelsimer is proof that some attorneys truly help others. are in their positions to help people. Max helps others with integrity and heart. As accolades pour in for him I won’t be the least bit surprised, Max is respected by so many! He’s the attorney you need in this very challenging state to get a divorce.

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Posted by Paul | January 29, 2021

Excellent Attorney

Max came highly recommended from a trusted friend and delivered on a multitude of levels. My divorce was a difficult one – even without children. Max is well-rounded with a diverse professional background that makes him a very effective attorney. Prior to my divorce, I’d never had to rely on an attorney, and let me tell you, having the right one is paramount. He treated my case like it was his own, was very prompt on communication, kind, understanding and most importantly, diligent. It was clear to me early in the process that without the right attorney that truly took the time to understand my specific situation, things could have gone south quickly. Max worked with me to get a clear picture of the situation and was highly effective in how he handled my case every step of the way. I can’t stress enough how professional and exceedingly effective he was during the entire process.

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Posted by Ricky | May 23, 2019

Custody Case

Max and his team did an outstanding job on my case seeking custody for my daughter, they were very quick to answer and assist in any way possible regarding the case. I was really unsure if they would take my case being I was a father seeking majority custody, after consulting with Max he not only took on my case but he also did his very best and I now have custody of my daughter. I highly recommend him and his law office for any legal needs.

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Posted by anonymous | April 23, 2019

Excellent Family Law Attorney

While my divorce occurred in a different state, several issues have come up since moving to SC specifically regarding the children and Max has helped me navigate each circumstance. He also handled my legal name change back to my maiden name years after the divorce. He is experienced, calm, and responsive in a very timely manner. Personnel in his office are very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful as well. Max is a true professional, well prepared, takes the time to accepts calls and answer questions. He works through difficult situations, stays focused, and knows how to navigate unique challenges. He consistently proves himself to be sharp, well-prepared, caring and tenacious. I highly recommend Max and the firm.

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Posted by anonymous | April 23, 2019

Excellent choice

Max and his staff were incredibly informative and professional. They were able to ensure a smooth hearing experience during a difficult time. I would highly recommend Mr. Pickelsimer.

Posted by anonymous | February 13, 2014

Great attorney---Gets the job done!

Max handled my case very well. My ex refused to be served, and found every way possible to make every process very difficult. I felt like giving up, but Max was very encouraging and made sure that I finally started receiving child support. He answers emails very quickly and kept me well informed.

Posted by Lisa | January 24, 2014

Excellent divorce attorney!

Max recently represented me for my divorce. Max balanced patience with me when I was hesitant to file charges and go on the offensive with great guidance on what I needed to do in order to take charge of the situation. Max read the situation really well with my ex-husband and knew what we had to do. I always felt Max was looking after the safety of me and my children and our future. I definitely recommend Max and would hire him again!

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Posted by KG in Chapin, SC | January 15, 2014

Excellent Divorce Attorney

Max handled my separation hearing with amazing skill. Max is very knowledgable and has excellent skills in court. I am so thankful for his awesome advice and for winning custody of my children. I will always be grateful to Max because his talent as a lawyer has allowed me to kiss my children and tuck them in each night. Max was absolutely the best during my difficult custody battle.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Partner/Member
Gillen & Pickelsimer, LLC
2019 - Present

Partner/Member
Payne, Black & Pickelsimer, LLC (formerly Warner, Payne & Black)
2008 - 2019

Education

University of South Carolina School of Law
Juris Doctor
2008

University of South Carolina
Master of Science
1997

Newberry College
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1993

Legal Cases

Jennings v. Jennings, 401 S.C. 1, 736 S.E.2d 242 (2012)
The South Carolina Supreme Court found that the emails in question were not being held in elecronic storage as defined by the SCA.

Cannon v. Georgia Attorney Generals Office, et al, 397 S,C, 541, 725 S.E.2d 698 (2012)
The Court court affirmed the Court's imposition of attorneys fees while reducing the amount of the award.

Roof v. Steele, 396 S.C. 373, 720 S.E.2d 910 (Ct. App. 2011).
The Court held that the trial court improperly tethered the alimony award to the costs of insurance.

View all legal cases

Associations

South Carolina Bar
Member
2008 - Present

Richland County Bar Association
Member
2008 - Present

Lexington County Bar Association
Member
2008 - Present

American Bar Association
member
2008 - Present

York County Bar Association
Member
N/A

United States Supreme Court Bar
Member
N/A

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2021

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

Client Champion - Gold
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2019

Client Champion - Gold
Martindale-Hubbell
2019

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2018

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2017

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2016

AV Preeminent Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2015

Certified Family Court Mediator
SC Board of Arbitration and Mediation
2015

Member
South Carolina Law Review
2006

South Carolina Outstanding Young American
South Carolina Jaycees
2002

View all awards

Publications

South Carolina Law Review
ATTORNEY MALPRACTICE IN WILL DRAFTING: WILL SOUTH CAROLINA EXPAND PRIVITY TO IMPOSE A DUTY TO INTENDED BENEFICIARIES OF A WILL?
2007

Speaking Engagements

2017 Hot Tips From the Coolest Domestic Law Practictioners
Spies Like iOs: Now that you've found spyware, what are your remedies?
2017

SCACPA Litigation Conference
Expert Witnesses
2009

Federal and State Securities Enforcement
Securities Fraud
2008

Attorney endorsements

Received (5)

Given (15)

Endorse Max

James McLaren

Family Attorney | Oct 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. I have tried several family law matters with Max. He has terrific trial preparation, research, and legal writing skills. Max knows how to try difficult cases, from beginning to end. He is a formidable and respected lawyer in our legal community. He has and maintains the highest ethical standards. I would refer a family member or close friend to him for representation in a difficult matter--to me, that is the highest recommendation I can give an attorney."

David Pisarra

Child custody Attorney | Jan 25
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I met Max in Colorado while we were attending a weeklong Lawyer training for continuing education. He was impressive before the class and even more afterwards. I found Max to be a very perceptive and astute attorney and I highly recommend him as a strong advocate for his clients."

Michael Gillen

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Max is one of the best attorneys in the state. Extremely knowledgeable and does an outstanding job representing his clients. I have worked with Max on the same side of cases as well as opposing sides. I highly recommend Max."