About C. Shea Brighthop

Making a personal impact upon the lives of others is Shea’s driving force. She is committed to excellence and advocacy for every client. Even at the tender age of 8, Shea knew she wanted to be a lawyer.

Prior to working for Cavanaugh & Thickens, Shea practiced at a civil defense firm in which she primarily handled personal injury and nursing home negligence matters. Shea also has criminal defense experience as she worked as a public defender before her civil defense legal career. Her previous experience gives Shea the ability to analyze cases from various perspectives and grants her the gift to relate to people from all walks of life. As a result of her career transitions, she has learned to remain passionate and committed to her clients despite challenges that may arise.

Shea is very proud to be from Trenton, South Carolina. Although Trenton is very small, she believes Trenton produces big talent.

Shea currently lives in Columbia, South Carolina. She enjoys mentoring law students, and spending time with her family and fur baby, Cardi.

Accreditations

Bar Admissions

• South Carolina – 2013

Education

• University of South Carolina
• Bachelor of Arts, Political Science – 2009
• University of South Carolina School of Law
• Juris Doctor – 2012

Professional Associations & Memberships

• South Carolina Bar
• Richland County Bar
• South Carolina Association of Justice, Board of Governors
• American Association of Justice
• Junior League of Columbia, Special Interest Group/Affinity Group Co-Chair

Awards

• 2024 Women in Business Recipient
• Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch – 2021-2024