Over 100 years of legal excellence at your service.
Johnson & Davis, PA, is Beaufort County’s trusted law firm providing experienced and effective legal solutions to clients’ needs in complex civil litigation and transactions. Our attorneys have helped thousands of clients achieve their objectives in matters involving, land-use/development, zoning, construction, contract disputes, business formation, business transactions, business litigations, medical malpractice defense, appeals, arbitration, mediation, and much more. Rooted in South Carolina, our experienced team expertly assists businesses, professionals, and individuals, across the Lowcountry and elsewhere in South Carolina, in their legal needs.








Practice Areas
Johnson & Davis offers a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to meet the individual needs and objectives of our clients. Our practice areas include:
- Mediation / Arbitration
Mediation and arbitration, key forms of ADR, offer efficient, cost-effective alternatives to litigation. Johnson & Davis's attorneys, regularly represent clients in mediations and arbitrations. Certified mediators Barry L. Johnson and Hutson S. Davis Jr. leverage their skills to resolve disputes, saving clients time and money by avoiding drawn-out litigation. Mr. Johnson also serves as an arbitrator.
- Litigation
The attorneys at Johnson & Davis are seasoned litigators with extensive courtroom experience. They represent individuals, small businesses, and large corporations in various legal matters, including medical malpractice defense, business partnership and contract disputes, property owners associations, zoning contests, appeals, and more. Their strategic approach is tailored to each case to achieve effective outcomes.
- Business / Transactional
At Johnson & Davis, our priority is empowering local businesses through dedicated transactional law services, including business entity formation, general corporate counsel, contract negotiation, and mergers and acquisitions. Our personalized strategies help businesses navigate legal challenges, safeguard their interests, and foster growth.
- Real Estate
Johnson & Davis is committed to assisting businesses and individuals with their real estate law needs. Our services include property transactions, leasing, zoning, development, subdivisions, covenants, and real estate contract negotiations. We offer tailored solutions that protect and maximize our clients' investments and navigate the complexities of real estate law in our community.
- Government
Johnson & Davis excels in guiding developers through the maze of government regulations. With expertise in zoning, land use, and permitting, our team advises on statutory, ordinance, and covenant restrictions, working diligently to modify land use constraints that hinder our clients' property goals. We have deep experience in navigating Beaufort and Jasper County's strict zoning laws.





Our team
At Johnson & Davis, our team is distinguished by both professional expertise and a deep-rooted understanding of South Carolina’s legal landscape. Comprised of skilled attorneys with extensive local experience, we handle complex civil litigation and significant transactional matters with unwavering integrity and dedication. Our commitment to excellence defines our approach, ensuring professional and precise legal representation for every client.
Barry L. Johnson
Attorney
Barry L. Johnson, founder of Johnson Davis predecessor in 1996, has 50+ years of legal experience in litigation, transactions, and land use. A Harvard and USC Law grad, he's also been active in Beaufort County civic life, Christian ministry, and has held various leadership roles.
Hutson S. Davis Jr.
Attorney
Hutson S. “Buster” Davis, Jr., a Shareholder at Johnson Davis since 2009, concentrates in defending physicians in malpractice actions and is a certified mediator. An Eagle Scout and USC alum, he served as a Captain in the USAF JAG Corps. Davis is an active community member, founding the Beaufort County Charities Golf Tournament, and has held various leadership roles in healthcare, legal, and educational organizations. He's married with four children and three grandchildren.
W. Lamar Johnson, II
Attorney
W. Lamar Johnson, II joined the firm in 2019, building on prior supportive roles. Regularly representing clients in HOA/POA matters, business formation and organization, contract review, negotiation and preparation, and business transactions, Lamar is a University of South Carolina, Darla Moore School of Business and Charleston School of Law grad. A Beaufort County native, he enjoys working alongside his father, Barry L. Johnson, and values family time, outdoor activities, and community involvement. Married to Ashley since 2018, they have a daughter born in 2021 and a son born in 2023, and hope to have more children in the future.
Manning Cathcart
Attorney
Manning Cathcart joined the firm in 2023 after completing a Judicial Clerkship in the South Carolina Circuit Court. His primary area of practice is civil litigation with a focus on defending physicians and other medical professionals in medical malpractice lawsuits. A proud alumnus of Auburn University and the University of South Carolina School of Law, Manning brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to his practice. His commitment extends beyond the courtroom; as an active board member of the Beaufort County Bar Association, he continuously works to elevate the legal profession in his community.