If you were hurt on someone else’s property, that wasn’t just bad luck: it may have been negligence. Premises liability cases arise when property owners fail to fix hazards, warn visitors, or take basic safety seriously. Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm stays on the offense, digging into details, exposing failures, and pushing hard to hold property owners accountable for the harm they caused.
Hold Property Owners Financially Accountable
Every year in the United States, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs, and roughly 800,000 of those require medical attention. Falls, another major category of premises liability, send over 800,000 Americans to the hospital annually, with about 20% of falls in the elderly resulting in serious injuries like broken bones or concussions.
Premises liability applies when a person is injured on someone else’s property because of a dangerous condition the owner failed to fix or warn their guest about. To establish liability, a premises liability attorney in Charleston must show the owner owed a duty of care, the owner knew or should have known about the hazard, and that failure caused the injury. Courts then evaluate whether the property owner acted reasonably under the circumstances.
Proving Duty of Care
Under South Carolina law, a property owner can be held responsible if they owed you a legal duty of care at the time you were hurt. That depends on why you were on the property and on your relationship to the owner. The law breaks injured visitors into three clear categories.
Invitees
Invitees receive the highest level of protection. This includes customers, shoppers, delivery drivers, vendors, and most social guests. If you had permission to be there and the property owner benefited in any way, you are an invitee. Property owners must take reasonable steps to inspect the property, fix hazards, and warn about dangers they know (or should know) exist.
Licensees
Licensees are people who have permission to be on the property but do not benefit the owner directly. A hotel guest is an example. Because the relationship is more limited, the duty of care is lower. In most cases, the owner must warn licensees about known, hidden dangers, such as unstable stairs or loose floorboards, but does not have to actively inspect for new hazards.
Trespassers
Trespassers are typically owed no duty of care under South Carolina law because they did not have permission to be on the property. Property owners generally are not required to make their land safe for unauthorized visitors. That said, there are important exceptions:
Attractive nuisance doctrine: Under the attractive nuisance doctrine, property owners may be responsible for injuries to children who are drawn onto the property by dangerous features like swimming pools, abandoned structures, or heavy equipment.
Frequent trespassers: South Carolina law also recognizes limited liability for frequent or foreseeable trespassers, such as people who regularly cross the same area and whose presence the owner knows or should know about.
Proving Knowledge of a Hazard
To recover compensation, the injured person must show that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition. This must be proven by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it is more likely than not that the owner had knowledge.
Actual Knowledge
Actual knowledge is direct proof that the owner knew about the hazard. This evidence often surfaces during discovery and may include:
Prior complaints or incident reports
Building or health code violations
Maintenance logs or cleaning schedules
Internal communications acknowledging the danger
Constructive Knowledge
Constructive knowledge means the owner should have known about the hazard because it existed long enough to be discovered. In this case, time and condition matter. A freshly dropped spill may not create liability. But a substance that is dirty, tracked, or visibly aged suggests it was there long enough for someone to address it, and that failure to do so can establish negligence.
Premises liability cases usually trace back to the same core problem: a property owner ignored a known risk or failed to act before someone got hurt. These hazards often build over time and are entirely preventable.
Failing to clean spills or debris
Ignoring broken stairs, handrails, or flooring
Allowing poor lighting in walkways or parking areas
Neglecting routine inspections and maintenance
Failing to repair uneven sidewalks or pavement
Leaving swimming pools unsecured or unsupervised
Ignoring prior complaints or incident reports
Failing to warn visitors of hidden dangers
Why Choose Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm for Premises Liability?
When you’re injured on unsafe property, the insurance company’s first move is to downplay what happened or blame you for it. Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm doesn’t play along. We stay on the offense from day one, breaking down maintenance records, surveillance footage, inspection logs, and ownership layers to expose exactly where safety failed. Our team knows how property owners and insurers try to dodge responsibility, and we know how to shut that down fast.
Gus Anastopoulo built this firm from scratch with no safety net. He earned results by outworking the defense, pushing cases forward, and refusing to settle for easy answers. That same mindset drives our premises liability cases. We prepare every case like it’s headed to trial, because that’s how we dial up the pressure and build real leverage. If you want a team that takes negligence personally and accountability seriously, you’re in the right hands.
Client Testimonials
"Working with this law firm was an absolute breeze. They run their business efficiently, communicate clearly, and make every step quick and easy. The team is professional, reliable...
"Working with this law firm was an absolute breeze. They run their business efficiently, communicate clearly, and make every step quick and easy. The team is professional, reliable, and genuinely focused on helping their clients. I definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a smooth and stress-free legal experience."
—Tyana Canty
Gus Law Firm did an outstanding job handling my case! Jotavia was amazing; she went above and beyond to make sure everything was taken care of and kept me informed every step of th...
Gus Law Firm did an outstanding job handling my case! Jotavia was amazing; she went above and beyond to make sure everything was taken care of and kept me informed every step of the way. I truly appreciate her dedication and professionalism. Highly recommended!
—SaNya Grant Paul
Gus and his team kept me informed every step of the way. They truly take the time to understand your case and what you’re going through. Every team member was professional an...
Gus and his team kept me informed every step of the way. They truly take the time to understand your case and what you’re going through. Every team member was professional and responsive, and made the process simple and stress-free. If you’re looking for a personal injury law firm in Charleston that actually listens and delivers results, this is the one.
—Rebecca Gates
Gus and his team were excellent. My family was affected by a horrible accident, and his firm stood beside me every step of the way. He and his team went above and beyond expectatio...
Gus and his team were excellent. My family was affected by a horrible accident, and his firm stood beside me every step of the way. He and his team went above and beyond expectations. He and his team were very supportive and sympathetic to what this accident did to me and my family. He fought for me till the end, which was a successful end. I would strongly recommend him and his team for your needs.
—Kathy
My experience was a good one. Everyone was kind and professional, and they handled my case in a timely manner. A great team, and I thank everyone! Highly recommended.
—DN
It was truly an honor for your law firm to represent me in this case. I will be forever grateful to your team for all the hard work they did for me. Thanks and happy holidays!...
It was truly an honor for your law firm to represent me in this case. I will be forever grateful to your team for all the hard work they did for me. Thanks and happy holidays!
—Shawn Davis
I’ve gotten such a good impression of Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm from Jotavia Myers. She’s kind, helpful, and genuine, and it’s easy to see she represents the firm ...
I’ve gotten such a good impression of Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm from Jotavia Myers. She’s kind, helpful, and genuine, and it’s easy to see she represents the firm with real care and professionalism.
—Deanna Marie
Gus and the entire team were so efficient and professional! I appreciate every effort! They absolutely know what they are doing, and I’m so glad they were representing me! Hi...
Gus and the entire team were so efficient and professional! I appreciate every effort! They absolutely know what they are doing, and I’m so glad they were representing me! Highly recommend to all!
—Pam Toledano
Jo has truly done an amazing job helping me with my case to the fullest extent and has made certain that I understand every aspect of my case. She was truly committed to ensuring t...
Jo has truly done an amazing job helping me with my case to the fullest extent and has made certain that I understand every aspect of my case. She was truly committed to ensuring that her job was done to the fullest. Thank you.
—Jason Williams
This was by far the best experience I had with a law firm! Jotavia was amazing! They handled everything for me, making it seamless. I was out of the country, and they helped me so ...
This was by far the best experience I had with a law firm! Jotavia was amazing! They handled everything for me, making it seamless. I was out of the country, and they helped me so much, and I didn’t have to worry about anything! JP Walker & Jotavia, you guys are chef’s kiss!
—Kia Major
I was recently injured in a serious car accident and didn’t know where to turn. After researching personal injury law firms near me, I found Gus's law firm, and I’m so ...
I was recently injured in a serious car accident and didn’t know where to turn. After researching personal injury law firms near me, I found Gus's law firm, and I’m so grateful I did. From the very first consultation, their team was professional, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable about car accident and injury law.
My attorney walked me through every step of the process—from dealing with the insurance company to securing top-notch medical care. They fought hard to get me the maximum compensation for my injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering. What stood out most was how responsive and dedicated they were—I always felt heard and supported.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and need a personal injury lawyer who truly cares and delivers results, I highly recommend Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm. They turned a stressful situation into a manageable one and helped me get the justice I deserved.
—Michael
The lawyers at Gus’s are AMAZING!
They went above & beyond for us. My fiancé and I were in a car accident in February, which left us without that car. By the grace...
The lawyers at Gus’s are AMAZING!
They went above & beyond for us. My fiancé and I were in a car accident in February, which left us without that car. By the grace of God, we were not injured and therefore had no medical bills, however deeply distressed. I had to quit my job, which I loved dearly, due to this accident. We called other law firms, and no one would take our case due to the lack of medical bills. When we called Gus, we got a lawyer who took our case right away and was able to win us $30,000 for emotional distress. I couldn’t be more thankful for this law firm fighting for us.
I could not recommend anyone better to fight for you!
—Carly McGee
Gus Anastopoulo and his firm were EXTREMELY AMAZING.
From start to finish, this law firm was very helpful, professional, and knowledgeable. They assist me step by step, making sure...
Gus Anastopoulo and his firm were EXTREMELY AMAZING.
From start to finish, this law firm was very helpful, professional, and knowledgeable. They assist me step by step, making sure I understand everything. They made me feel at ease. I was so relaxed and comfortable once talking to him and his assistant. I had nothing to worry about. Everything was taken care of by his firm.
Mr. Gus will go above and beyond for his clients, and that’s what I loved about him during my case. His compassion for his firm and clients makes you feel secure and confident. He will not settle for anything. He will make sure you get what you deserve.
I will utilize Gus Law firm for any legal justification.
Thank you, Mr. Anastopoulo and your firm!
—Tamika Moore
I was very pleased with Gus representing me for something that happened suddenly. It was definitely a situation that had me stressed and not knowing what to do, but they were there...
I was very pleased with Gus representing me for something that happened suddenly. It was definitely a situation that had me stressed and not knowing what to do, but they were there for me every step of the way. Very happy with the outcome and would definitely highly recommend. Thank you for all the help!
—Tiffany Bredenkamp
I wish I could give this firm a 10-star review! They are extremely responsive, maintain great communication, and care about their clients! The attorneys here not only fight for you...
I wish I could give this firm a 10-star review! They are extremely responsive, maintain great communication, and care about their clients! The attorneys here not only fight for you, but they also listen to your needs. Jotavia is always willing to share knowledge with you and listen. I would recommend anyone to call Gus!
—Ricardo Prizzie
They took care of all my problems. JP was amazing, very transparent with all the cost upfront and fought hard for my case to go through and win.
— Jovanny Castano
I'm very pleased with Gus and his representation. He definitely dotted all the I's and crossed all T's in my case. He's very kind and Hannah is the sweetest assistant as well. I wo...
I'm very pleased with Gus and his representation. He definitely dotted all the I's and crossed all T's in my case. He's very kind and Hannah is the sweetest assistant as well. I would highly recommend his law firm to anyone seeking representation.
—Lora Edwards
Outstanding Car Accident Representation – Highly Recommend!
I was recently injured in a serious car accident and didn’t know where to turn. After researching personal i...
Outstanding Car Accident Representation – Highly Recommend!
I was recently injured in a serious car accident and didn’t know where to turn. After researching personal injury law firms near me, I found Gus's law firm, and I’m so grateful I did. From the very first consultation, their team was professional, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable about car accident and injury law.
My attorney walked me through every step of the process — from dealing with the insurance company to securing top-notch medical care. They fought hard to get me the maximum compensation for my injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering. What stood out most was how responsive and dedicated they were — I always felt heard and supported.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and need a personal injury lawyer who truly cares and delivers results, I highly recommend Gus Anastopoulo Law firm. They turned a stressful situation into a manageable one and helped me get the justice I deserved.
—Michael
Who Can Be Held Liable for Premises Liability?
Premises liability cases aren’t always as simple as pointing to the property owner. In many cases, multiple parties share responsibility for keeping a space safe, and insurance companies rely on that confusion to avoid paying full compensation. That’s why liability must be carefully investigated. We examine who controlled the property, who handled maintenance, who knew about the hazard, and who had the authority to fix it. Those details determine where accountability actually lies and who should pay for your injuries. Depending on the facts of the case, liable parties may include:
Property owners who failed to repair or warn of hazards
Commercial tenants responsible for interior safety
Maintenance or cleaning contractors who ignored dangerous conditions
Homeowners’ associations responsible for shared spaces
Businesses that created or failed to correct unsafe conditions
What Are the Types of Compensation Available for Premises Liability?
A serious injury on unsafe property can affect far more than your physical health. Medical bills pile up, work gets missed, and everyday life becomes harder than it should be. South Carolina law allows injured victims to pursue compensation to address both the immediate costs and the long-term impact of a premises liability injury.
The exact value depends on the severity of the harm, how the injury affects your work and life, and the strength of the evidence. Depending on your case, available compensation may include:
Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and future care
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity due to time away from work
Pain and suffering related to physical injuries and limitations
Emotional distress, trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life
Out-of-pocket expenses tied to the injury and recovery
Permanent disability or disfigurement damages in severe cases
Wrongful death damages for surviving family members, when applicable
Steps to Take Immediately After Premises-Related Injuries
What you do in the moments and days after a premises-related injury can directly affect your health and your ability to recover compensation. Acting quickly helps protect both.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible
Report the incident to the property owner or manager
Document the scene with photos or videos
Preserve clothing, footwear, and other physical evidence
Identify witnesses and collect contact information
Avoid giving recorded statements to insurers
Request a copy of any incident report
Contact an experienced premises liability lawyer in Charleston
Why Hire a Premises Liability Lawyer in Charleston
Premises liability cases are built on details that property owners and insurers hope you miss. An experienced premises liability lawyer in Charleston knows how to uncover maintenance failures, prior complaints, and hidden ownership layers that determine who’s truly responsible. Insurance companies always move fast to limit payouts, often before you truly understand the full impact of your injuries. Working with an experienced premises liability attorney in Charleston levels the field and puts pressure where it belongs: on the party that failed to keep the property safe.
Premises Liability
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a premises liability claim in South Carolina?
In most cases, South Carolina gives you three years from the date of the injury to file a premises liability lawsuit. That can change depending on who owns the property, especially if a government entity is involved. Miss the deadline, and your claim is likely dead.
What if the property owner says they didn’t know about the hazard?
They don’t get a free pass just by claiming ignorance of the conditions. Under South Carolina law, liability can be based on actual knowledge or constructive knowledge. If a dangerous condition existed long enough for the owner to have known about it through reasonable inspections, that may be enough to establish responsibility.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partly at fault?
Yes. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault, but your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Insurers fight hard to exaggerate blame, but we push back hard on those tactics to ensure fault remains where it belongs.
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