In this week’s KellyGram, I’d like to spotlight an exceptional member of our community and the Mike Kelly Law Group legal team: my law partner, Lisa Long Cotten. Lisa has been with the firm since 2007, and her professional, community, and civic accomplishments are second to none. As an exemplary advocate and consummate professional, Lisa commands only the utmost respect from her fellow Bar members, as well as a reputation as an esteemed Social Security Disability attorney. Her clients similarly recognize the level of dedication and care with which Lisa pursues their cases, and they don’t forget it. It is not uncommon for Lisa to receive a note or phone call from a client expressing their gratitude for her help months—or even years—after their case resolved!

Not only is Lisa an exceptional advocate, but she is also a distinguished leader among the South Carolina Bar. Most recently, Lisa was recognized by the SC Bar Foundation for her outstanding work as an officer of the Board, but her involvement with the Bar does not end there. Lisa is an active member of numerous Bar committees, associations, and panels, earning her recognition as a South Carolina Lawyers Weekly Leadership in Law Honoree in 2020.

Lisa’s leadership and service extends beyond the Bar and into the community. She is a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society, a Riley Fellow, and she currently serves on the Richland County Recreation Commission Board of Commissioners. Needless to say, Lisa’s drive and commitment to serving others is nothing short of remarkable. We at Mike Kelly Law Group are honored and blessed have her on our team—thank you, Lisa, for all that you do!