Matthew T. Richardson

Matthew T. Richardson: Experienced Litigation Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina

Matthew T. Richardson is a seasoned litigation attorney based in Columbia, South Carolina, renowned for his expertise in complex civil cases. With over 20 years of experience, Mr. Richardson has a proven track record of success in handling some of the most challenging and high-stakes legal disputes in the state, consistently advocating for his clients with strategic precision and unwavering dedication. His deep understanding of South Carolina’s legal landscape, combined with his extensive trial experience, makes him a formidable legal counsel.

Mr. Richardson’s practice focuses predominantly on complex civil litigation, having been involved in a diverse range of cases including minority owner oppression litigation, the largest public utility rate case in South Carolina, a significant public corruption investigation and prosecution, statewide redistricting challenges, and extensive consumer protection litigation. He’s also led a federal constitutional challenge related to temporary rate relief following the abandonment of construction on the new nuclear power plant – a testament to his ability to tackle intricate, multi-faceted legal battles.

Beyond his significant courtroom experience, Mr. Richardson is deeply committed to social justice and actively represents a class of all foster care children in South Carolina, working tirelessly to achieve systemic reforms within the state’s child welfare system. He also provides comprehensive legal services in personal injury, business litigation, and government and election law matters, demonstrating a broad and adaptable skillset.

Mr. Richardson’s expertise extends across a wide array of legal proceedings. He possesses significant experience in jury trials, bench trials, agency hearings, and contested cases, demonstrating proficiency in all stages of litigation from preliminary motions and injunctions through dispositive motions, class action certification determinations, and complex mediations and arbitrations. He is adept at appellate advocacy, skillfully navigating appeals and securing favorable outcomes for his clients. His firm is recognized for handling intricate cases involving appeals, commercial disputes, and government law matters.

His legal approach is characterized by meticulous preparation, strategic thinking, and a commitment to achieving the best possible result for his clients. He understands the emotional and financial impact of legal disputes and provides compassionate and supportive representation throughout the entire process.

Practice Areas

• Appellate Practice
• Commercial Litigation
• Government Relations Practice
• Litigation - Intellectual Property
• Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs
• Product Liability Litigation - Defendants
• Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs
• Medical Malpractice Law - Plaintiffs
• Personal Injury Litigation
• Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants

Education & Credentials

• Compleat Lawyer Award, University of South Carolina School of Law, 2003 (Silver Award), 2019 (Gold Award)
• Named Greenville Appellate Practice “Lawyer of the Year” by Best Lawyers, 2017
• S.C. Association for Justice Matthew J. Perry Public Service Award, 2015
• Greenville Business Magazine “50 Most Influential,” 2015
• Listed in Chambers USA, 2014-Present
• Listed in Best Attorney USA, 2013-Present
• Listed in South Carolina Super Lawyers, 2012-Present
• Named a “Rising Star” by South Carolina Super Lawyers, 2012

Awards & Recognition

• Lawyer of the Year: Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs, Greenville (2025), Lawyer of the Year: Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs, Greenville (2023), Lawyer of the Year: Product Liability Litigation - Defendants, Greenville (2022), Lawyer of the Year: Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs, Greenville (2020), Lawyer of the Year: Appellate Practice, Greenville (2017), Lawyer of the Year: Appellate Practice, Greenville (2015)
• Recognized: Appellate Practice, Recognized: Commercial Litigation, Recognized: Government Relations Practice, Recognized: Litigation - Intellectual Property, Recognized: Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs, Recognized: Product Liability Litigation - Defendants, Recognized: Product Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs
• Recognized Since: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2013
• Democratic Nominee for Attorney General of South Carolina, 2010
• “Top 20 Under 40,” The State, 2010
• Liberty Fellowship, Aspen Global Leadership Network, 2009

Mr. Richardson’s dedication to his clients and his extensive legal experience make him a trusted and effective legal advocate in Columbia and throughout South Carolina. He is consistently recognized for his excellence and commitment to justice.