Luther J. Battiste, III

Luther J. Battiste III stands as a remarkable founding member of Johnson, Toal & Battiste, P.A. With an impressive five-decade journey in the legal arena, he dedicates his practice to navigating the intricacies of complex civil litigation, workers’ compensation, vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, and administrative law.

In the legal world, Mr. Battiste is a highly regarded figure, having once served as the National President of the American Board of Trial Advocates. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the University of South Carolina, culminating in a Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law in 1974.

Mr. Battiste’s dedication to justice and excellence in the legal field has consistently earned him a place among The Best Lawyers in America. His ethical standards and legal capabilities have also been recognized with an AV* Preeminent peer-review rating through Martindale-Hubbell.

In 1983, Mr. Battiste made history in the political realm by becoming one of the first African Americans elected to the Columbia City Council since Reconstruction, serving with distinction for 15 years and taking on the role of mayor pro tempore twice. His public service was commemorated in 1998 with the dedication of the Luther J. Battiste III Monument and Plaza by the City of Columbia.

Mr. Battiste is licensed to practice in several esteemed courts, including the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd District, the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina, and the U.S. Supreme Court. His professional connections are extensive, involving the South Carolina Bar, American Inns of Court, American Association for Justice, National Bar Association, Southern Trial Lawyers Association, Richland County Bar Association, South Carolina Black Lawyers Association, and the South Carolina Association for Justice, among others.

Beyond the courtroom, Mr. Battiste’s leadership and advocacy continue to shape the legal community through his active involvement in the 4th Circuit Judicial Conference. His career is a shining example of steadfast dedication to both law and public service.

*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.