
Columbia, SC Criminal Defense and Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with a crime or injured in an accident in Columbia, South Carolina, the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC is ready to help. We provide experienced legal representation for clients in Richland and Lexington Counties, including those facing criminal investigations, traffic offenses, or dealing with the aftermath of serious personal injuries.
Whether your case is in city court, magistrate court, or General Sessions, we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process.
Criminal Defense Attorney Serving Columbia, South Carolina
We represent individuals accused of crimes ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Columbia is home to the University of South Carolina, Fort Jackson, and major highways like I-26 and I-77—all of which contribute to a high number of criminal charges in the area. If you're facing criminal accusations in Richland County, it’s important to have a knowledgeable and aggressive defense attorney on your side.
Common criminal cases we handle in Columbia include:
- DUI charges (including first-time offenses and cases involving USC students or military members)
- Domestic violence accusations
- Drug possession or distribution
- Assault and battery
- Internet crimes
- Theft or property crimes
- Juvenile offenses
We know that every case is unique, and we approach each client with a customized defense strategy. Many cases can be challenged through procedural defenses, factual disputes, or negotiated resolutions such as Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) or conditional discharges.
Learn more about our DUI defense services and domestic violence representation.
Personal Injury Lawyer for Columbia Accident Victims
In addition to criminal defense, our office represents people who have been seriously injured due to someone else’s negligence. Whether you were hurt in a car wreck on I-20, struck by a drunk driver, or injured on someone else’s property, we can help you pursue fair compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
We handle a wide variety of injury claims in the Columbia area, including:
- Car and truck accidents
- Motorcycle and pedestrian accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Catastrophic injuries (such as brain or spinal cord damage)
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Wrongful death cases
In injury cases, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means there’s no fee unless we recover money for you. In a contingency fee arrangement our office will advance case expenses (such as for expert witnesses and court costs), and those amounts are subject to reimbursement after fees are calculated. Our goal is to help you secure the resources you need to recover and move forward.
Visit our personal injury and workers' compensation pages for more information.
Legal Help for USC Students and Fort Jackson Personnel
Columbia is home to thousands of college students and active-duty military personnel. Our office regularly represents clients affiliated with the University of South Carolina and Fort Jackson who are facing legal trouble.
We understand the serious consequences that a criminal charge can have on your career, education, or security clearance. If you're a student or member of the military, contact us immediately to discuss how we can help protect your future.
Why Choose the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC?
- Over two decades of experience in criminal and injury law
- Located nearby in Lexington, SC, serving clients across the Midlands with an additional satellite location in downtown Columbia, SC
- Proven results in both courtroom litigation and negotiated settlements
- Dedicated team committed to prompt communication and personal service
- We offer confidential consultations and honest advice about your legal options. If you’re looking for a Columbia defense lawyer or injury attorney who will fight for you, we are ready to help.
Contact Us Today
If you've been arrested or injured in Columbia, don’t wait to get legal advice. Call the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC today at (803) 359-3301 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you.

Making Sure Our Clients Stay Informed
-
Know What To ExpectKnowledge is power. Get the facts related to the criminal process you currently face.
-
Surviving The InvestigationIf you are under investigation, our firm can aggressively protect your rights.
-
Parents & GrandparentsJuvenile charges can still be quite serious. Take advantage of our skills and resources to fight back.
