Criminal Defense Experience Built in Columbia
Patrick “Pat” Sharpe is a partner at Sharpe & Leventis, LLC and a Columbia criminal defense attorney whose career has included both defending and prosecuting criminal cases.
Before entering private practice, Pat represented hundreds of people accused of crimes at the Richland County Public Defender’s Office and later prosecuted DUI cases for the City of Columbia. Today, he draws on that experience to represent people facing criminal charges and other serious legal matters throughout Columbia and surrounding South Carolina communities.
At Sharpe & Leventis, Pat takes a hands-on approach to representation. He evaluates the facts, explains what the client is facing, and builds a defense around the circumstances of the individual case.
Early Career
Pat was born and raised in Columbia and attended Dreher High School before continuing his education at the University of South Carolina. It was during his time at USC that his early exposure to the Columbia legal community began.
While attending USC, Pat worked for attorney Richard “Dick” Harpootlian. During law school, he clerked for South Carolina attorneys including Harpootlian, Jim Griffin, A. Camden “Cam” Lewis, and Keith Babcock, while also gaining experience in the offices of Solicitors David Pascoe and Scarlett Wilson.
Those early experiences gave Pat an up-close view of how cases are investigated, prepared, argued, and resolved—and helped set the direction for the courtroom-focused career that followed.
Professional Experience
Richland County Public Defender’s Office
After law school and admission to the bar, Pat began his career at the Richland County Public Defender’s Office, where he handled more than 700 General Sessions cases representing people accused of crimes.
That volume of hands-on casework gave him experience evaluating evidence, communicating with clients facing serious consequences, negotiating criminal matters, and appearing in court.
City of Columbia DUI Prosecutor
Pat later moved to the other side of the courtroom, prosecuting DUI cases for the
City of Columbia. He remained in that role until February 2016, when he left to establish the Law Office of Patrick C. Sharpe, LLC.
Sharpe & Leventis, LLC
Pat ultimately co-founded Sharpe & Leventis, LLC with Joe Leventis, bringing his criminal defense and prosecution background into a firm built around direct attorney involvement.
Education, Admissions & Recognition
Education
Charleston School of Law
Juris Doctor, 2012
University of South Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Minor in Political Science, 2009
Bar Admissions
- South Carolina
- U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
Recognition
- Super Lawyers Rising Star — 2021
Columbia Has Always Been Home
Pat’s connection to Columbia goes far beyond the location of his office. He was raised here, attended Dreher High School, earned his undergraduate degree at the University of South Carolina, and built much of his legal career in the local court system.
Today, Pat continues to live in Columbia with his wife, their son, two dogs, and two cats. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his family and cheering for the South Carolina Gamecocks and Pittsburgh Steelers.
What Clients Say About Working With Pat
We were in looking for an DUI lawyer for my son who is developmentally delayed and does not comprehend things well, that would have patience. We also needed someone who could be quick as switching lawyers during cases is risky. Well we found Patrick. We explained to Patrick all our previous progress and that I would be like my son’s 3rd party representative to be certain he understood what was being conveyed to him and there were no issues. Thankful for his empathy, he took the case and the rest was history. Patrick adjudicated my son’s case, explained things to him so he understood, welcomed my calls for clarity and won my son’s case! He was able to walk away with No DUI charges. We are so blessed to have meet him and while we hope we don’t need his services again, we would reach out to him again and again. Thank you Patrick! You were a joy to meet.
Temisha L.
I came to Patrick Sharpe the day before court (I wouldn't recommend doing that) and he was absolutely great! There was never any dismissive or judgemental attitude and his representation was thorough. I was able to reach him any time I had a question or concern and was given a fair price for his representation. He was also a great encouragement in my process of recovery and rehabilitation. I pray I never need to use this service again, but if I do, I will call Mr. Sharpe.
Jenelle T.
Attorney Patrick Sharpe is a very professional and an understanding lawyer. He is calm, approachable, non judgemental and readily available to answer any questions you don't understand about your case. He genuinely cares for his clients and will explore all available opportunities to retain your innocence. He is NOT DRIVEN BY MONEY but instead will prioritize fighting for you to get a good outcome possible. His fees are fair and is willing to work with you if you aren't financially strong at time you need his services. I was referred to him by a friend he helped get a good outcome for her case and I am greatful he did it for me too I strongly recommend him if you need legal services.
Hosea K.
I have hired Attorney Patrick Sharpe on several occasions. He has gone above and beyond to represent my business and my wife and I personally. He is very responsive, knowledgeable and easy to work with. I would HIGHLY recommend Sharpe and Leventis to anyone looking to hire a civil or criminal defense attorney.
Parker S.
Contact Our Columbia Law Firm for a Free Consultation Today.
If you are facing criminal charges, talk with Patrick Sharpe about what happened, what you are facing, and what options may be available.