Janet E. Rhodes

Rhodes' practice focuses on employment law where she represents both employees and employers in a variety of matters. She has represented clients in matters involving wrongful termination, discrimination, wage disputes, and equal pay. She has represented employees and employers who have employment contract disputes, including non-compete agreements. Rhodes has litigated matters involving the Family Medical Leave Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, Title VII, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Rhodes has extensive experience drafting employment agreements, non-compete agreements, independent contractor agreements, and severance agreements. For employers, she offers an in-depth employment practices audit ensuring employers are in compliance with the law with regards to matters such as statutorily mandated terms of employment and postings; she also drafts handbooks meant to serve as a first line of defense for employers with employee disputes.

Rhodes is a native of Ninety Six, SC located in Greenwood County. She graduated magna cum laude from Wofford College with a BA in Government. In undergrad, Rhodes enjoyed the arts and sang in three choral ensembles. She also excelled in sports, achieving NCAA Division I All-Conference honors for the javelin in her junior and senior years.

After her time at Wofford, Janet studied at the Charleston School of Law. After completing her Juris Doctor there, she clerked for the Hon. J. Ernest Kinard, Fifth Circuit Court. She also was a summer intern with the Hon. Henry F. Floyd, who at that time, was a U.S. District Court judge. He now serves on the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth District.

In her spare time, Rhodes participated in several seasons for the Sandlapper Singers. She serves on the Board of the Trustus Theatre in the role of Personnel Committee Chair. Rhodes also serves in the role of Secretary for the SC Bar Employment and Labor Law Section. Rhodes lives, works, and plays in the Vista and enjoys spending time with friends and family.

Awards & Recognition

• "Legal Elite of the Midlands" 2015, 2017, 2020, 2021 by Columbia Business Monthly in Labor and Employment Law 2021

• Best Lawyers in America, Litigation – Labor and Employment Law, 2018-2021; Employment Law – Individuals

• South Carolina Super Lawyers, Employment Litigation: Plaintiff, 2020-2021

• South Carolina Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2014-18

• Leadership in Law Award, presented by Lawyer's Weekly, 2020

Professional Organizations & Community Involvement

• Richland County Bar

• SC Bar Employment and Labor Law Section

• South Carolina Women Lawyers Association

• Trustus Theatre Board