David M. Ratchford, Business Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina

David concentrates on business, contracts, insurance, litigation, and personal injury. Each area below outlines the kind of case David handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Business

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• Contracts

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• Insurance

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• Litigation

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• Personal Injury

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• Real Estate

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David's primary office is at 2026 Assembly St., Ste. 104, Columbia, SC, 29201. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new business attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with David usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

David discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in business practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire David for a business case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. David walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does David offer a free consultation?

  David charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain David's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check David's current terms during booking.

• How long do business cases in South Carolina typically take?

  Simple business matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. David gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can David take my case if I'm outside Columbia?

  David is licensed in South Carolina. Matters governed by South Carolina law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — David will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with David?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. David will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is David accepting new business clients right now?

  David's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.