R. Hawthorne Barrett

Hawthorne Barrett is an experienced appellate attorney who represents businesses, individuals, and insurance carriers in state and federal appeals. He also handles trial-level litigation involving personal injury, bad faith claims, and contract disputes. His work reflects careful judgment, strong advocacy, and a practical approach to resolving complex legal issues.

Thorne earned a B.A. from Wofford College in 1994, an M.A. from the University of Tennessee in 1996, and a J.D. from the University of South Carolina in 1999. This academic background supports his disciplined legal analysis and helps shape the clear, organized way he approaches challenging appellate and litigation matters.

Thorne has briefed and argued more than 45 cases in South Carolina’s appellate courts and has also handled numerous matters in the United States Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit. That level of experience gives him a strong command of appellate procedure and helps clients move through difficult cases with confidence.

Thorne is known for studying both the strengths and weaknesses of a case before building a strategy. He gives clients realistic guidance while staying focused on the best available outcome. His ability to evaluate appellate risk also helps trial teams understand how appeal issues may affect lower court litigation.

Thorne has delivered meaningful results in several notable matters. He helped secure an affirmed directed verdict and $200,000 in sanctions in a legal malpractice case. He also won reinstatement of a defense verdict for a chiropractor and argued a case of first impression involving strict liability and private property damages.

Thorne is admitted in South Carolina, the United States District Court for South Carolina, and the United States Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit. He is recognized in Best Lawyers in America for Insurance Law from 2018 to 2026, reflecting the steady quality of his work in appellate and insurance-related disputes.

Hawthorne Barrett helps clients face legal challenges with clarity, preparation, and sound strategy. Whether he is handling an appeal, advising during active litigation, or addressing insurance-related claims, he works to protect client interests and improve outcomes through focused analysis, strong written advocacy, and a practical understanding of complex legal procedure.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Turner Padget Graham and Laney P.A.
• Member, South Carolina Bar Association
• Member, Richland County Bar Association

Licensed State

• South Carolina

Education

• University of South Carolina
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Tennessee
  Master of Arts (MA)
• Wofford College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges