Collins & Lacy President and Chief Executive Officer Christian Stegmaier appointed to South Carolina Judicial Merit Selection Commission
July 3, 2025
Collins & Lacy, P.C. announces that Christian Stegmaier, President and Chief Executive Officer, has been appointed by the Speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives to serve on the state’s Judicial Merit Selection Commission.
The JMSC is a twelve-member body comprised of legislators and lawyers charged with screening and recommending qualified candidates for judicial office in South Carolina. The Commission plays a vital role in safeguarding the integrity and capability of the state’s judiciary by conducting a thorough vetting process before judicial elections by the General Assembly.
Stegmaier brings 25 years of legal experience to this important appointment. A seasoned trial lawyer, he is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates. Additionally, as an appellate advocate, he has appeared in approximately 60 appeals and made over 40 oral arguments before our state’s appellate tribunals. On the national stage, Stegmaier is regarded as a leading voice in retail and hospitality law.
Reflecting on his appointment, Stegmaier stated: “I clerked for a wonderful judge who dedicated his life to judicial service. He was the embodiment of hard work, fairness, and upholding the rule of law. Moreover, I have appeared in front of many very capable judges over the years during my practice. I have a very good idea of what makes a great member of the judiciary based on those experiences. Character, aptitude, and temperament are paramount. I’m hoping to help play a material role in the selection of the next generation of South Carolina’s judiciary. I view this appointment as one of the most meaningful professional responsibilities I’ve ever undertaken.”
Stegmaier’s appointment underscores Collins & Lacy’s ongoing commitment to public service and advancing the rule of law in South Carolina.
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
