Columbia, SC personal injury attorney Mark D. Chappell Jr. talks about the one most common piece of advice he gives to clients and his mentor in the practice of law. He often advises his clients that the most important foundation of the attorney-client relationship is openness and honesty. When clients are candid with their attorney, and the attorney responds with the same level of transparency, a genuine trust develops. That trust not only ensures the client receives the strongest possible representation but also helps guide them toward making informed and sound decisions in their case.

Reflecting on his own career, he credits his father as both his greatest personal and professional mentor. His father had practiced law for more than three decades before he even expressed interest in attending law school. Initially, his father encouraged him to pursue a different path, but determined to follow his own instincts, he chose to enter the legal profession. Over the past decade, he has learned that no one demands more from you than a parent—particularly one you work alongside. That drive stems from a desire to see their child succeed. Without question, his father has been the most influential mentor in shaping his practice of law, and he remains deeply grateful for that guidance.