How much does it cost to hire Robert for a appellate case?

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

Does Robert offer a free consultation?

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

How long do appellate cases in South Carolina typically take?

Simple appellate 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. Robert gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Robert take my case if I'm outside Columbia?

Robert 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 — Robert 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 Robert?

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. Robert will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Robert accepting new appellate clients right now?

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

Unclaimed · Is this you?

Robert F. Goings, Appellate Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina

Over 20 years of legal practice · focused on Appellate, Breach of Contract, and Business · 5.0/5 rating from 33 verified client reviews

Managing PartneratGoings Law Firm, LLC

Columbia, SC

Practicing appellate in Columbia since 2006.

20+: Years practicing
5.0 ★: 33 client reviews
5: Bar admissions

Practices in

Appellate Breach of Contract Business Car Accidents Class Action Construction +20 more →

Are you Robert F. Goings?

This profile was built from public bar records and is still unclaimed. Claim it free to control your photo, bio, and fees — and get client inquiries sent straight to you.

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Quick answer

Robert F. Goings is a managing partner based in Columbia, SC. The practice focuses on Appellate, Breach of Contract, and Business. Robert has over 20 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Goings Law Firm, LLC. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 33 client reviews.

Based in: Columbia, SC
Experience: over 20 years
Known for: Appellate · Breach of Contract · Business

Handles Appellate, Breach of Contract, and Business matters from Columbia, SC.
Over 20 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by Robert F. Goings

Robert concentrates on appellate, breach of contract, business, car accidents, and class action. Each area below outlines the kind of case Robert handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Appellate cases in Columbia, South Carolina

Robert takes appellate matters in Columbia, South Carolina. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Robert agrees to represent you.

Breach of Contract cases in Columbia, South Carolina

Robert takes breach of contract matters in Columbia, South Carolina. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Robert agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Columbia, South Carolina

Robert takes business matters in Columbia, South Carolina. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Robert agrees to represent you.

Car Accidents cases in Columbia, South Carolina

Robert takes car accidents matters in Columbia, South Carolina. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Robert agrees to represent you.

Class Action cases in Columbia, South Carolina

Robert takes class action matters in Columbia, South Carolina. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Robert agrees to represent you.

Biography

About Robert F. Goings — Over 20 years of South Carolina appellate experience

Over two decades of practicing law, Robert F. Goings has earned a reputation as one of the leading trial lawyers in South Carolina, known for taking on major corporations, insurance companies, and hospitals on behalf of seriously injured clients and families. Robert has secured some of the largest jury verdicts in South Carolina history, including one of the highest non-fatal injury verdicts in Richland County history—a $13.5 million jury verdict with punitive damages—and a recent $5 million wrongful-death medical malpractice verdict. Many other results cannot be published due to confidentiality obligations. His results reflect his standing as a highly respected South Carolina personal injury lawyer with the courtroom skill to take high-stakes cases to verdict.Raised on a dairy farm in Union County, Robert brings the values of fairness, honesty, and hard work to every case. His grandfather, a hardworking farmer and a man of the utmost integrity, taught Robert from a young age that treating people “right,” being honest, and doing good by others were nonnegotiables in life. Although Robert was not athletic enough to make it on a varsity team, his love for singing, theater, and the performing arts—and the grit he developed on the farm—became the foundation for his success in the courtroom. For Robert today, as a leading trial lawyer, the courtroom is his stage, and he channels those early skills and values into his work representing victims of catastrophic injuries, trucking accidents, medical malpractice, product defects, and wrongful death cases all across South Carolina.Robert’s record of landmark verdicts, creative advocacy, and unwavering commitment to justice have made him one of the most respected trial lawyers in South Carolina. Robert is known for being trial-ready, meaning he aggressively prepares every case for court and refuses to settle for less than his clients deserve. This approach has generated courtroom success that has drawn widespread respect from both the legal community and the media. South Carolina Lawyers Weekly has stated that “Robert Goings has a knack for getting big verdicts,” and Robert is frequently praised by his peers for his creative trial strategies and tenacious courtroom advocacy. He is also regularly called upon and retained by other attorneys to assist in complex, high-stakes personal injury and wrongful death cases—an acknowledgment of his skill, judgment, and the trust placed in him by his fellow lawyers across the state. Robert is known for bringing a rare combination of creativity and tenacity into the courtroom—thinking several steps ahead, uncovering angles others miss, and relentlessly driving each case toward the truth. His dynamic presence, strategic insight, and ability to connect authentically with juries have earned him a reputation as one of the most effective and persuasive trial advocates in South Carolina. For Robert, the courtroom is his natural habitat, and the place where he is most comfortable as a lawyer. He believes the challenge of being a trial lawyer is that the audience is always changing—every jury is different, every judge is different, and every case brings new facts and new witnesses. The one constant is Robert’s desire to be a truth-teller, connect with the jury, and to be authentic, truthful, and compassionate in the courtroom as he represents his clients to the best of his ability. Apart from his work as a lawyer, as a business owner Robert has also single-handedly built one of the most respected plaintiffs’ trial firms in South Carolina. Through a commitment to excellence, integrity, and client-focused advocacy, Robert has assembled a team of exceptionally talented trial attorneys and staff who are recognized as leaders in the legal community. Under Robert’s leadership, Goings Law Firm has earned a statewide reputation for outstanding results, professionalism, and the strength of its trial team.The firm’s success is reflected in its statewide recognition, including winning The State’s Best awards for:Best Law Firm (2024 & 2025)Best Personal Injury Firm (2024 & 2025)Best Workers’ Compensation Firm (2024 & 2025)Best Accident Firm (2025)As one of the most award-winning firms in the state, Goings Law Firm has cemented its position as one of the premier plaintiffs’ litigation firms in South Carolina and a top choice for clients seeking experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorneys in Columbia and throughout South Carolina. When you hire Robert and the team at Goings Law Firm, you aren’t getting a lawyer who looks for a quick settlement—you’re getting a true trial advocate with a proven record in the courtroom. Whether the case involves a severe injury, medical negligence, or a wrongful death, Robert and his team bring the legal skill, strategic preparation, and unwavering determination needed to stand up to the most powerful defendants. Outside his firm, Robert spends his time with his wife Rebecca (also an attorney) and their three children. When he’s not in the courtroom, he loves being outdoors, cooking barbecue or singing at his church, living out the values he brings to every aspect of his work and life.

Awards

Selected to Super Lawyers Top 10 Attorneys in South Carolina
Selected to Super Lawyers Top 25 Attorneys In South Carolina
Trial Lawyer of the Year by the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), South Carolina Chapter
Named to South Carolina Lawyers Weekly’s 2025 Personal Injury Law Power List
Rated AV Preeminent® by Martindale-Hubbell®
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 for work in:
Litigation - Insurance
Personal Injury Litigation - Plaintiffs
South Carolina Lawyers Weekly “Leader in the Law” Honor
Fellow of the International Society of Barristers
Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America (LCA)
Compleat Lawyer Award (Silver) – University of South Carolina School of Law (2016)
Legal Elite of South Carolina – Midlands
South Carolina Business Monthly – Voted Top Attorney (Personal Injury)
Selected as an “Emerging Legal Leader” by the South Carolina Lawyers Weekly Magazine in 2011

Working with Robert on a appellate matter

Clients Robert works with

Robert reviews new inquiries case-by-case for appellate, breach of contract, and business matters in Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area.

Credentials

Robert F. Goings's legal education and bar admissions

University of South Carolina School of Law
J.D. · 2006
Wofford College
B.A. Summa · 2003

Jurisdictions

Robert's state bar admissions

Federal Circuit Cour
2013 · ACTIVE
U.S. Supreme Court
2010 · ACTIVE
U.S. Court of Appeal
2009 · ACTIVE
South Carolina
2006 · ACTIVE
U.S. District Court,
2006 · ACTIVE

Robert studied at J.D. in University of South Carolina School of Law and B.A. Summa in Wofford College.

Law school and academic background

Robert completed J.D. in University of South Carolina School of Law and B.A. Summa in Wofford College. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Robert runs in South Carolina is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of Robert F. Goings

Robert has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

Robert F. Goings's office in Columbia

Robert's primary office is at 1510 Calhoun Street, Columbia, SC, 29201. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Goings Law Firm, LLC

1510 Calhoun Street

Columbia, SC 29201

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Robert F. Goings — 5.0/5 rating from 33 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Robert. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing appellate attorneys in Columbia.

5.0

33 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Robert F. Goings claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Robert F. Goings — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Robert charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Robert's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Robert will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a appellate attorney in Columbia, South Carolina

A short list to run through before you commit: How many appellate matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Robert

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

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every appellate matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Robert confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Robert's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many appellate practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Robert F. Goings

How much does it cost to hire Robert for a appellate case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Robert walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Robert offer a free consultation?
Robert charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Robert's office. Some appellate attorneys offer free consults — check Robert's current terms during booking.
How long do appellate cases in South Carolina typically take?
Simple appellate 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. Robert gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Robert take my case if I'm outside Columbia?
Robert 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 — Robert 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 Robert?
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. Robert will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Robert accepting new appellate clients right now?
Robert's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by South Carolina residents in the last few months, answered by appellate attorneys like Robert F. Goings. Each link opens the full answer thread.

What evidence is needed for an appeal in a family law case in South Carolina?
I lost custody of my children in a family court case in Greenville. I believe the ruling was based on inaccurate information presented. For my appeal in South Carolina, what kind o
1 verified answer · Appellate · South Carolina
How do I file an appeal against a payday loan judgment in Louisiana?
I lost a court case regarding a payday loan in Baton Rouge and want to know how to file an appeal. The lender used questionable practices that I want to contest. What specific step
1 verified answer · Appellate · Louisiana
What rights do I have in appealing a credit report dispute in Alaska?
I disputed an error on my credit report in Anchorage, but it was rejected. This error is affecting my ability to secure a loan, and I want to know what rights I have in appealing t
1 verified answer · Appellate · Alaska
What is the procedure for appealing a zoning decision in Michigan?
I’m fighting a zoning decision made by our local council in Detroit that restricts my property development. I want to know the exact steps for appealing this decision in Michigan.
1 verified answer · Appellate · Michigan
What is the cost to appeal a traffic ticket in New Jersey?
I received a traffic ticket in Newark for a speeding violation, but I wasn’t speeding. I’m considering appealing the ticket, but I’m worried about the costs involved. Can someone e
1 verified answer · Appellate · New Jersey
Can a federal court case be appealed in Illinois state court?
I was involved in a federal lawsuit in Chicago, but I lost my case concerning a contract dispute. I’m confused about the appeal process; can I appeal in state court or do I have to
1 verified answer · Appellate · Illinois

Areas served

Appellate attorneys serving Columbia, Charleston and Greenville in South Carolina

Robert handles appellate matters throughout South Carolina. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified appellate attorneys in that community.

More counsel

If Robert's intake is full or the fit isn't right, these appellate attorneys in Columbia handle similar matters. Every profile below is verified and open to consultations.