D. Michael Kelly
Michael Kelly, Esq., our founding attorney, is a South Carolina resident with more than 30 years of experience in law. He has spent the entirety of his career working hard to protect the rights of South Carolina residents and build a better, more just community.
In addition to his legal career, Mr. Kelly is heavily involved in numerous charitable and community service organizations. Mr. Kelly is also an active member of St. Martin’s in the Fields Episcopal Church, as well as happily married with two sons.
Mike concentrates his practice on several areas of the law:
- Personal Injury
- Worker’s Compensation
- Social Security Disability
- Insurance Bad Faith
He is highly experienced in all of these fields of law and represents people seeking to claim disability benefits under complex ERISA laws and regulations.
Taking the Time to Give Back
Mike takes time from his busy schedule to give back to the community. He adheres to a staunch belief in civic stewardship and feels a deep and fulfilling obligation to support his fellow citizens.
He participates in several organizations to help foster and grow the community:
- Central Carolina Community Foundation
- New Morning Foundation
- Board of Directors of the Glenforest School
- University of South Carolina School of Law Building Campaign - Co-Chair
- Cultural Council of Richland Lexington Counties
- Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce
Please visit the community board for current community projects and initiatives The Mike Kelly Law Group supports.
Awarded for Outstanding Community Service
Mike Kelly has a reputation for offering outstanding community service. His highly-regarded qualities of civic leadership have earned him the respect and affection of his community.
He is the recipient of notable community awards:
- Myrtle Beach Herald’s 2008 Personal Injury Attorney of the Year
- Public Citizen Award from the South Carolina Trial Lawyers Association
- The Compleat Lawyer Award from the University of South Carolina
- Outstanding Alumnus Award from the Department of Arts & Sciences–University of South Carolina
He extends humanity, warmth, and concern to all people. He is a role model and influential member of the community.
Mike is an active member and has served in the Vestry of St. Martin’s in the Fields Episcopal Church. He is happily married and is the father of two sons, Patrick and Mac.
Admitted to Practice
- South Carolina Bar (1977)
- U.S. District Court, District of South Carolina (1978)
Education
- Juris Doctor, University of South Carolina (1977). Columbia, South Carolina
- Bachelor of Arts, University of South Carolina (1974). Columbia, South Carolina
Professional Organizations
- Richland County Bar Association—Member, Board of Directors, President (1990-1991 and 1991-1992)
- South Carolina Bar—President (1999-2000), President-Elect (1998-1999), Treasurer (1997-1998), Secretary (1996-1997), Permanent Member, House of Delegates
- South Carolina Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates, Member, Past President (November 2007-February 2009)
