Charles W. PatrickEnergy Attorney in South Carolina

About

Charles W. Patrick, a prominent figure in the realm of energy law, is a founding member of Richardson, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman, LLC, based in South Carolina. With a distinguished career that spans decades, Patrick has been instrumental in significant public health litigations, notably in state tobacco cases that culminated in the historic national master settlement. As a member of the firm’s executive committee, he brings strategic insight and leadership to RPWB's mission of advocating for justice in complex legal matters. A native of North Carolina, Patrick’s journey began in Jonesville, South Carolina, where his family's roots in the mining industry shaped his understanding of the energy sector. He met his wife, Celeste, while pursuing a history degree at Furman University, and together, they embarked on a path that would intertwine their professional lives in law and medicine. After graduating from the University of South Carolina School of Law, Patrick quickly distinguished himself as a legal advocate, serving as the executive editor of the law review. In 1980, he joined forces with notable attorneys Terry Richardson and Ron Motley to pioneer asbestos litigation, tirelessly fighting for the rights of workers affected by asbestos exposure. His efforts resulted in over 50 individual trials and significant legal precedents that continue to benefit thousands of individuals suffering from asbestos-related illnesses. Patrick's advocacy extended into the realm of tobacco litigation, where he was a key member of the Mississippi trial team that established the groundbreaking legal principle that state governments could recover healthcare costs from tobacco companies. His work in this area contributed to settlements totaling $240 billion for more than 40 states, and he continues to represent several Canadian provinces in their pursuit of public health reimbursement. Outside the courtroom, Patrick and Celeste own Patrick Properties, a hospitality company that revitalizes Charleston's event spaces and restaurants, playing a pivotal role in the city's cultural landscape. Their commitment to community service is reflected in their involvement with numerous civic and charitable organizations, including the Trident United Way and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra. With a passion for justice and a deep commitment to public health, Charles W. Patrick remains a leading voice in energy law and public health advocacy, while also enjoying leisure activities such as tennis and hiking in the beautiful South Carolina mountains with his family.

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