Howser, Newman and Besley, LLC – Columbia, SC

Premier Civil Litigation and Defense Counsel

Howser, Newman and Besley, LLC is a distinguished law firm in Columbia with a reputation for excellence in civil litigation and insurance defense. Founded in 1996 by R. Davis Howser, James P. Newman, and the late William Besley, the firm has grown into a highly respected practice serving clients across South Carolina. The firm’s philosophy is built on collaboration, believing that sharing legal ideas and strategies among its members leads to the best possible results for their clients. They are known for providing cost-effective, high-quality representation to individuals, businesses, and insurance carriers, handling everything from complex construction disputes to professional liability claims.

Comprehensive Legal Practice

The firm offers a wide range of legal services, primarily focused on defense and business litigation:

• Insurance Defense: Representing insurance companies and their insureds in casualty coverage disputes, automobile liability, and bad faith claims.
• Construction Litigation: Defending architects, engineers, and contractors in claims regarding construction defects and professional negligence.
• Professional Liability: protecting the reputations and livelihoods of professionals, including attorneys and accountants, facing malpractice suits.
• Workers’ Compensation Defense: Representing employers and carriers in claims before the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission.
• Business Litigation: resolving commercial disputes, contract issues, and collection matters for local and regional businesses.
• Probate Administration: Guiding families and personal representatives through the probate process to ensure estates are settled correctly and efficiently.

A Legacy of Excellence

With nearly 30 years of history, Howser, Newman and Besley has established itself as a pillar of the legal community. Several of their attorneys hold the prestigious AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting their high ethical standards and legal ability. The firm is also recognized by Best Law Firms for its work in construction and insurance litigation. While they are seasoned trial lawyers who have argued cases before the South Carolina Supreme Court and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, they also maintain a robust alternative dispute resolution practice, helping clients avoid the cost of trial through mediation and arbitration.

Downtown Columbia Headquarters

The firm’s main office is located at 1508 Washington Street, in the heart of downtown Columbia. This location places them within walking distance of the Richland County Courthouse and the city’s business district. The office is situated in a professional building that reflects the firm’s standing as a serious and established legal practice.

Trusted Defense

When your business, reputation, or assets are on the line, experience matters. Howser, Newman and Besley, LLC offers the seasoned counsel and strategic defense necessary to protect your interests. If you need to find a lawyer who combines deep legal knowledge with a practical approach to litigation, this firm is a premier choice in the Midlands.