Collins & Lacy, P.C. welcomes Deanene P. Thornwell to its Trucking and Retail & Hospitality Practice Groups
June 17, 2025
Collins & Lacy, P.C. welcomed Deanene P. Thornwell as a senior associate to its Trucking, Retail & Hospitality, and Criminal Defense Practice Groups. Deanene brings a breadth of legal experience rooted in public service, client protection, and complex litigation, making her a powerful addition to the firm’s civil defense work.
Deanene began her career in criminal law, gaining experience on both sides of the courtroom as a prosecutor and a defense attorney. She later served within South Carolina state agencies, most notably the Department of Social Services, where she focused on protecting vulnerable populations and navigating high-stakes administrative and civil matters. This foundation sharpened her litigation skills and deepened her insight into government procedures and client advocacy, core strengths she now brings to Collins & Lacy’s civil defense practice.
Her transition to private practice allows Deanene to expand her focus, taking on diverse legal challenges using her background that has prepared her for the complexities of defending business clients in the trucking, hospitality, and criminal defense sectors. Her background gives her a unique perspective on risk, compliance, and the interplay between regulatory bodies and the industries they oversee. She becomes another Collins & Lacy attorney with extensive courtroom experience.
“Deanene’s career is defined by her deep commitment to public service and her ability to navigate complex legal environments with confidence and clarity,” said Christian Stegmaier, President and CEO of Collins & Lacy. “She brings valuable insight into both government operations and client advocacy, making her an excellent fit for the firm’s mission to deliver client-focused defense strategies. We are pleased to have her as part of our growing team.”
About Collins & Lacy, P.C.
Collins & Lacy is a business defense firm in South Carolina that delivers legal representation for our clients through solid preparation, execution, and client-oriented service aimed at success. Located in the State’s capital city of Columbia, the firm represents local, regional and national clients in the areas of construction; retail/hospitality and entertainment; insurance/bad faith; products liability; professional liability; commercial trucking; mediation; governmental affairs/issue advocacy; and criminal defense. Learn more at collinsandlacy.com.
