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SCRule 1.4

Client Communication Rules for South Carolina Law Firms

South Carolina attorneys must keep clients reasonably informed about case status, promptly respond to information requests, and explain matters for informed decisions.

Rule 1.4 Key Requirements

  • 1Promptly inform clients of matters requiring consent
  • 2Consult about means to accomplish client objectives
  • 3Keep clients reasonably informed about case status
  • 4Respond promptly to reasonable information requests
  • 5Explain matters for informed decision-making
View official rule text

Additional South Carolina Requirements

Language Access

South Carolina does not have formal language access requirements for attorneys, but the state has a growing Hispanic population, particularly along the coast and in agricultural areas.

Key languages: Spanish

Statute of Limitations

Attorneys must notify clients of applicable statutes of limitations. South Carolina generally has a 3-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.

South Carolina-Specific Considerations

  • Charleston and Columbia markets with coastal tourism
  • Hurricane and disaster-related cases common on coast
  • Growing retiree population with unique legal needs
  • Strong personal injury practice statewide

How Quilia Helps South Carolina Firms Stay Compliant

  • Client portal serves out-of-state tourist clients
  • Automated updates maintain consistent communication
  • Treatment tracking supports injury case management
  • Secure platform protects confidential information
  • Communication logs demonstrate Rule 1.4 compliance

South Carolina Legal Resources

South Carolina Bar

Official WebsiteDiscipline & Ethics

South Carolina Association for Justice(SCAJ)

Trial lawyers association providing practice resources and advocacy.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions: South Carolina Attorney Communication

What are South Carolina attorney communication requirements?

South Carolina Rule 1.4 requires keeping clients reasonably informed, responding promptly to inquiries, and explaining matters for informed decisions.

How do SC attorneys handle tourist injury cases?

Coastal tourism generates injury cases requiring communication with out-of-state clients.

What are penalties for communication failures in SC?

The Office of Disciplinary Counsel can pursue sanctions from admonition to disbarment.

Does South Carolina require written fee agreements?

Written agreements are required for contingency fees and recommended for all matters.

How does Quilia help South Carolina firms?

Quilia enables communication with out-of-state tourist clients and automates compliance.

Are electronic communications accepted in SC?

Yes, electronic communications are fully accepted with appropriate security measures.

What communication issues lead to SC complaints?

Common complaints include failure to return calls, inadequate updates, and unresponsiveness.

How should SC PI attorneys handle communication?

Personal injury attorneys should provide regular updates and maintain contact with distant clients.

Legal Terms Every South Carolina Attorney Should Know

Clear communication requires understanding these fundamental concepts. Click any term to learn more.

NegligenceDamagesStatute of LimitationsLiabilitySettlementContingency FeeDiscoveryDuty of Care
Browse all legal terms →
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Reviewed by: Quilia Legal Compliance Team
Primary Source: South Carolina Bar

Keep Your South Carolina Clients Informed - Automatically

Quilia helps South Carolina law firms maintain Rule 1.4 compliance while reducing administrative burden and improving client satisfaction.

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