Malissa Burnette

Malissa Burnette is a prominent civil rights attorney based in Columbia, South Carolina, and a founding partner of Burnette Shutt & McDaniel, PA. With decades of experience litigating against government entities and law enforcement agencies, she has established herself as one of the preeminent civil rights lawyers in the Southeast. Her practice centers on holding public officials and institutions accountable for constitutional violations, discrimination, and abuse of power.

Burnette has built a distinguished record representing individuals who have suffered at the hands of law enforcement and government actors, including victims of excessive force, unlawful detention, and civil rights violations under 42 U.S.C. § 1983. She has litigated cases in both state and federal courts, and her work has contributed to significant legal precedents protecting the rights of South Carolina citizens against governmental misconduct.

Beyond individual client representation, Malissa Burnette has been a consistent voice for systemic reform, working on employment discrimination and civil rights matters that intersect with government accountability. She has been recognized by numerous legal organizations for her dedication to civil liberties and her fearless advocacy on behalf of marginalized communities. Her reputation for thorough preparation and aggressive litigation has made her a trusted resource for clients facing the full weight of government opposition.

Burnette Shutt & McDaniel, PA continues to be a leading civil rights firm in South Carolina, handling cases involving police misconduct, employment discrimination, and constitutional violations. Malissa Burnette's leadership at the firm reflects her lifelong commitment to equal justice under law and her belief that every individual deserves vigorous representation when their civil rights have been violated.