What We Do
Criminal Defense & Civil litigation
Jane tried, and won, her first jury trial shortly after being sworn into the South Carolina Bar. Since then, she has tried numerous civil and criminal jury and bench trials. Jane helps clients with a variety of civil and criminal matters. She brings a unique perspective to the courtroom because she has tried cases on both sides of the courtroom in criminal cases, as a solicitor (prosecutor) and as a criminal defense attorney, and in civil cases, representing both plaintiffs and defendants.
Jane represents clients facing criminal charges, from misdemeanor property crimes and DUIs to more serious charges such as murder, armed robbery, and burglary.
In her wide-ranging civil practice, Jane helps clients in a variety of matters, such as when one is injured in a car accident, disputing an insurance company's decision, personal injury claims, and breaches of contract. Jane has a unique perspective for handling litigation as she has worked for clients on both sides of the courtroom.
Family Court
In her family court practice, Jane represents clients in adoption, custody, divorce, name change, and assisted reproductive technology cases. From high conflict cases to consent stepparent adoptions, Jane has handled almost every case possible in family court, including cases involving the South Carolina Department of Social Services and the Department of Juvenile Justice. Family court is a unique and often stressful experience for the litigants. Jane works with her clients to find a resolution that is best for the client and his or her children.
Mediation
Mediation appeals to parties as it offers parties full control over both the process of settling their dispute and the outcome of the process. Mediation is a non-binding procedure, which means that a decision cannot be imposed on the parties. In order to reach a settlement, the parties must voluntarily agree to it.
Mediation is a confidential procedure. Confidentiality serves to encourage frankness and honesty in the process by assuring the parties that any admissions, proposals, or offers for settlement will not have any consequences beyond the mediation process. They cannot, as a general rule, be used in subsequent litigation or arbitration.
We facilitate a collaborative process. We listen, ask thoughtful questions, and encourage creative ideas. We help you settle your case.
The 4 Cs of Mediation
Communication
Effective communication is essential to a positive mediation experience. We carefully listen to everyone, and assist the parties in engaging in an open, honest, and goal oriented conversation.
Control
The parties keep control of their interests throughout mediation, and they lose all control when the case goes to trial. By taking full advantage of mediation, the parties can maintain control of their most important interests.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is of upmost importance, and is absolutely necessary for the parties to effectively participate in mediation. We assure complete confidentiality to maintain the integrity of mediation.
Creativity
Mediation participants often craft creative solutions for their own problems. Because they decide what happens with their case, the participants may solve their problems in ways that a court could not because of judicial restraints.