Attorney Will Hellams

A Legal Career Built on Service & Justice

For two decades, I dedicated my life to public safety, working on the front lines and witnessing firsthand how socioeconomic status, addiction, and systemic failures drive criminal charges—notinherent criminality. I also saw how those on the margins were often treated unfairly, and it became clear that the justice system doesn’t always work equally for everyone. This realization ignited my passion for the law, leading me to become an attorney so I could fight for fairness, dignity, and justice for those who need it most.

Today, I proudly serve as a criminal defense attorney and civil rights advocate in South Carolina. I stand beside those facing criminal charges, victims of government overreach, and individuals harmed by negligence. My mission is simple: to ensure my clients receive fair treatment, protect their rights, and help them regain control of their lives.

A “Whole Person” Approach to the Law

Legal issues don’t happen in a vacuum. They stem from life’s toughest circumstances—fear, stress, financial instability, or even a momentary lapse in judgment. I don’t just see my clients as “cases” or “charges.” I see them as people.

Thanks to my background in public safety, I understand that when someone comes to me, it’s likely one of the worst days of their life. They are scared, anxious, and unsure of what comes next. That’s why I make it a priority to treat every client with dignity, respect, and honesty, ensuring they feel heard and supported. Beyond fighting their legal battles, I work to help clients address the underlying issues that brought them to this point—whether it’s addiction, financial stress, or unfair treatment by the system.

Legal Experience & Commitment to Excellence

I earned my law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law, where I was actively involved in student leadership and advocacy. I served as a Student Bar Association Senator, a Dean’s Leadership Council member, and the co-founder of Magnolia Defenders, a student organization dedicated to indigent defense. I also worked as a student attorney with the Roderick and Solange MacArthur Justice Clinic, where I assisted in civil rights litigation, particularly cases involving prison conditions and wrongful treatment of detainees in Mississippi.

Today, I focus my practice on:

Criminal Defense – Defending individuals facing charges in South Carolina state courts.

Civil Rights Litigation – Holding government actors accountable for misconduct and constitutional violations.

Personal Injury Cases – Fighting for victims injured due to negligence.I am an active member of the South Carolina Bar, Greenville Bar Association, American Association for Justice, South Carolina Association for Justice, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, South Carolina Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the Greenville Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.