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Meet David Bornemann

I’m David Bornemann. I’ve dedicated my legal career to helping injured workers navigate South Carolina’s workers’ compensation system. I believe the law should be a tool for fairness, not just a shield for the powerful. That’s why I’m grateful to have spent the last 20 years helping hardworking people stand up to a system that can often feel unfair and overwhelming.

A work-related injury can affect every part of your life. Along with physical pain, you are dealing with missing paychecks, mounting bills, and uncertainty about your future. My goal is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. Let me work to protect your rights, secure the benefits you’re entitled to, and guide you through every stage of the workers’ compensation process with practical advice and clear communication.

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I had an injury at work, and they were the first I contacted due to their ratings, and they really are good. They helped me, and I couldn’t have been happier. They were always available and very supportive of my needs. I would highly recommend them
-Katherina L., Actual Client

What Inspired You to Become an Attorney?

I became a lawyer because I believe everyone deserves a fair opportunity to be heard. Early in my life, I saw how ordinary people could become overwhelmed by systems that seemed stacked against them. I wanted to be the person who could help level the playing field.

While practicing law is demanding, the most rewarding moments come when a client finally feels protected, understood, and confident that someone is fighting for them. That sense of purpose continues to motivate me every day.

What Is Your Client Service Philosophy?

When I meet a new client, my first priority is to listen.

A workplace injury affects much more than your physical health. It can impact your ability to earn a living, provide for your family, and plan for the future. Before discussing legal strategy, I want to understand how your injury has changed your life and what matters most to you.

From there, I can build a case that addresses your major concerns. I will explain your rights in straightforward language, outline realistic expectations, and develop a strategy tailored to your specific situation. I believe clients should never feel left wondering what’s happening with their case. Keeping you informed, answering your questions honestly, and making myself available throughout the process are all essential parts of the way I practice law.

The most satisfying part of representing injured workers is seeing the relief my clients experience when they learn I secured them the medical care and wage replacement benefits they need. Helping someone obtain the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve isn’t just about resolving a legal claim, it’s about restoring stability, dignity, and peace of mind during one of the most difficult periods of someone’s life.

David’s Background and Professional Activities

David grew up in Greenwood, South Carolina. He moved to Columbia to attend the University of South Carolina, where he earned degrees in Finance and Marketing with a minor in Political Science. At graduation, David was honored with the Steven Swanger Leadership Award, which is considered the University’s second-highest undergraduate award. During law school at the University of South Carolina School of Law, David served as Student Bar Association Vice President and later President.

After graduating with his J.D., David clerked for the Honorable Paul M. Burch before beginning what would become nearly two decades of practice devoted primarily to workers’ compensation law. A seasoned trial lawyer, David has developed a comprehensive understanding of how workplace injury claims are investigated, evaluated, negotiated, and litigated. His experience gives him valuable insight into every stage of the workers’ compensation process and allows him to effectively advocate for injured workers.

Outside the office, David enjoys spending time with his family, running, golfing, bowling, volunteering, and spending time outdoors. Since taking up distance running in 2019, he has completed more than 150 races, including numerous half marathons, marathons, and ultramarathons. He also serves in leadership roles with several community organizations, including Main Street Rotary Club, the LivingWright Foundation, and Historic Columbia Foundation.

  • University of South Carolina – Juris Doctor
  • University of South Carolina – B.S. in Finance and Marketing
    • Minor in Political Science
  • South Carolina Bar Association
  • Richland County Bar Association
  • South Carolina Bar Leadership Academy, Class of 2010
  • Leadership Columbia, Class of 2012
  • Midlands Legal Elite (Workers’ Compensation) 2012-2014, 2016-2017
  • South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Educational Association
  • Main Street Rotary Club, Charter Member 2015-present
    • President – ’20-’21; Board Member 2019-present
  • LivingWright Foundation, Board Member, 2023-present
  • Andrews Society, Member, 2017-present
    • Steward – 2025-present
  • Historic Columbia Foundation
    • Member of Palladium Society young professional affiliate, 2007-present
    • Historic Columbia Advisory Board ’16-present
  • Columbia Museum of Art
    • Member of Contemporaries young professional affiliate, 2007-present
    • Contemporaries Board Member 2015-2021
  • University of South Carolina Alumni Association
    • Young Alumni Board Member 2007-2017; Chair of Young Alumni Board, ’09-‘10
    • Member of USC Alumni Association Board of Governors, ’09-‘10
    • Board of Governors Alumni Association Member – 2010-present
  • Columbia Opportunity Resource (COR), member 2007-present
    • Board Member 2019-2025
Recent Case Study

A speeding driver rear-ended a stopped vehicle, leaving a 44-year-old man paralyzed from the neck down prior to his death. Attorney Jeff Gerardi uncovered additional insurance coverage through the at-fault driver’s employer and fought to secure a $4,576,142 settlement. Continue reading

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Latest Blog Post

After an accident or work injury, the law firm you choose can shape your entire claim. Large national firms may have name recognition and big advertising budgets, but bigger isn’t always better. Many injured people in South Carolina want something…

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