Public Sector Lawyers Gather In Person for 2023 SC Local Government Attorneys’ Institute

Recently, 179 attorneys gathered in person for the first time since 2019 for the 2023 SC Local Government Attorneys’ Institute, hosted by the South Carolina Association of Counties (SCAC).

“Being back in person was a welcome change for us as organizers and for the attorneys in attendance,” said SCAC Director of Governmental Affairs Kent Lesesne. “This event traditionally offers valuable networking opportunities for our state’s public sector attorneys, and it was great to see everyone engaging with this year’s presenters and with each other.”

The Nov. 17 event at the Pastides Alumni Center in Columbia offered a robust CLE opportunity with presentations on First Amendment auditors, federal and state case law updates, ethics, and mental health and substance abuse in the legal community.

This year’s speakers included Amanda Karras, executive director and general counsel with the International Municipal Lawyers Association; Nichole Davis, attorney with McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates, P.A.; Desa Ballard, senior partner with Ballard and Watson; Joan E. Winters, attorney and owner of Winters Law Firm; Michael Montgomery, attorney with Montgomery Willard, LLC; John K. DeLoache, senior staff attorney with SCAC; and John O. Wienges Jr., staff attorney with SCAC.