Attorney C. Shea Brighthop

Bar Admission: South Carolina

Cheslyne Shea Brighthop is a Personal Injury Attorney at Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC, an award-winning South Carolina personal injury and workers’ compensation firm with offices in Columbia and Charleston. Since being founded in 2017, the attorneys at Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for victims of car accidents, truck accidents, work injuries, and other accident cases.

Shea joined the team in March of 2023, bringing with her nearly a decade of experience. Shea’s commitment to excellence and advocacy for her clients has led to numerous awards and accolades, including being a 2024 South Carolina Women in Business award recipient, named by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for three years running, and more.

Prior to joining Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC, Shea worked at a civil defense firm where she handled personal injury and nursing home negligence cases. Before that, Shea gained experience in criminal defense while working as a public defender. Her previous legal experience gives Shea a unique ability to analyze cases from various perspectives and grants her the gift of relating to people from all different walks of life. Throughout her legal path, Shea has learned to remain passionate and committed to her clients, especially when challenges arise.

“I consider myself a natural advocate for others — whether it’s my friends, family, or my clients. Being a lawyer gives me the opportunity to be a primary pillar of support for people during some of the hardest times in their lives. That’s what drives my passion for the law.”

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Shea is very proud to be from Trenton, South Carolina – a small town she believes produces big talent. Since the tender age of 8, Shea knew she wanted to be a lawyer. She made that dream a reality by attending the University of South Carolina where she obtained both her Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor. She is an active member of the South Carolina Bar, Richland County Bar, South Carolina Association of Justice, American Association of Justice, and Junior League of Columbia.

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

“Mentorship is a big part of who I am. I love supporting those interested in law school, especially young girls who look like me and want to do great things. I didn’t always have someone to look up to growing up, so I understand how important it is to see someone doing what you dream of doing. Being that visible example for others means everything to me.”

Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC | Client Focused. Results Driven.

“To get the best result for a client, you have to really listen to them, understand what they need and what they want, and let that guide how you represent them. That’s what being client focused and results driven means to me.”

Notable Case Results

$5,000,000

Tractor Trailer Accident

$2,050,000

Trucking Accident

$1,500,000

Negligent Security

$700,000

DUI Car Accident

$1,500,000

Truck Accident

$1,200,000

Truck Accident

$675,000

Car Accident

$2,000,000

Truck Accident

$750,000

Drunk Driving Accident

Reviews

“What can I truly say ? I experienced being represented by one of the most hard working, dedicated, patient and God sent attorney in the area. Attorney Shea Brighthop, with Cavanaugh & Thickens, not only represented me with passion and pride(…)

– Sherrel S.

“I have so many great things to say, but I will try to limit myself. Shea Brighthop and her paralegal, TraVena, were wonderful to work with. I felt supported, seen, and heard. Ms. Brighthop, explained everything to ensure I understood my options, rights,(…)

– Shameka M.

“Cavanaugh & Thickens, (Attorney Shea) took my case, with limited time to work on it. A heavy load lifted off my shoulders when they took the case. Attorney Cavanaugh & Ms. Shea were friendly, polite, & very knowledgeable. Besides the Attorneys being friendly & polite, and knowledgeable, the office staff was just as grand(…)

– Minnie S.

“I don’t say this often , about lawyers ! But Mrs Shea Brighthop ! Is An Amazing Attorney! She persevered and never give up in my case ! She fought for justice and my rights ! She got the victory because she knew she was doing her Duty!(…)

– Patty J.