Ballard & Watson, Attorneys at Law is a distinguished South Carolina law firm specializing in professional licensing defense and complex civil litigation, renowned for its unique approach to handling unusual and novel legal challenges. Founded by Desa Ballard in 1997 after a decade of experience at a major law firm and as a staff attorney for the South Carolina Supreme Court, the firm has built a reputation encapsulated by its unofficial slogan: “we make pigs fly.”
The firm’s practice is deeply rooted in appellate advocacy and professional ethics, with a focus on representing licensed professionals facing disciplinary or regulatory issues. Ballard & Watson emphasizes proactive risk management and preventive strategies, particularly for lawyers and other professionals, blending decades of expertise with a personalized, consultative approach. Their team is known for guiding clients through high-stakes matters with creativity and deep knowledge of South Carolina’s legal and regulatory landscape.
Services Offered
- Professional Licensing (representation for doctors, lawyers, and licensed professionals in regulatory/disciplinary matters, including initial licensing)
- Civil Litigation (contract disputes, commercial litigation, novel issues of law)
- Appellate Litigation
- Risk Management Consulting (compliance with professional ethics rules, law firm structure, acquisitions, dissolution)
- Law Office Accounting (trust account management, IOLTA account setup, software consultation, monthly reconciliations)
Serving clients throughout South Carolina, the firm is highly regarded for its work with professionals regulated by the South Carolina Department of Labor Licensing and Regulation (LLR) and the Supreme Court’s Commission on Lawyer Conduct. Their expertise in trust account compliance and ethical guidance makes them a go-to resource for attorneys seeking to mitigate risk and navigate complex professional standards.
