Founder Holly Atkins grew up in Hartsville, South Carolina, where she was inspired by her father, Ed Saleeby — an attorney and state senator known for his work ethic, fairness and ability to bring people together. That foundation continues to shape how the firm approaches both law and client relationships.
Holly attended the University of South Carolina School of Law and received her Doctorate of Law degree in 1987. She began her career in workers’ compensation at the South Carolina State Accident Fund. There, she handled claims for South Carolina employers and learned a great deal about how insurance companies view workers’ compensation claims and workers comp lawyers. She was appointed Chairman of the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission in 1999 by then Governor Hodges and served until 2003. Serving as a SC Workers’ Compensation Commissioner and traveling across the entire State exposed Ms. Atkins to all types of accidents and injuries.
Holly’s retirement marks the continuation of a legacy that has shaped Atkins Law from its foundation. For decades, Holly has been a steady advocate for working people, serving with compassion and deep commitment to the communities she calls home. The culture of this firm is rooted in listening, in showing up for people during difficult moments, and in offering effective guidance. As she retires, Holly leaves behind more than accomplishments. She leaves a legacy grounded in empathy, service and an unwavering belief in helping people.
And though she may be stepping back from the day-to-day practice, her influence will continue to guide Atkins Law for years to come, just as her father’s legacy guided her. With Joe and Dewana at the helm, Holly has no doubt that her legacy will continue to guide the firm in serving this community with the same compassion and commitment her team has always valued. Atkins Law enters its future confident, intentional and ready to carry forward the work Holly began.
Holly Saleeby Atkins is the founding member of the Atkins Law Firm and one of the most well-respected workers’ compensation attorneys in the state. Holly brings a unique perspective to the practice of Workers’ Compensation as she is one of a handful of lawyers in SC that has worked in every aspect of the Workers’ Compensation system—as a defense attorney, a Commissioner, and representing injured workers.
Prior to being appointed to the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission, Holly worked as a defense attorney for ten years representing insurance companies and employers in workers’ compensation matters.
SC Workers’ Compensation Commission
She was then appointed Chairman of the SC Workers’ Compensation Commission by Governor Hodges in March of 1999. While on the Commission, Holly functioned as a hearing officer, deciding disputed claims. She served as a Workers’ Compensation Commissioner until July 2003, when she left the Commission to go into private practice representing injured workers—and thus the Atkins Law Firm was born.
My Story
Holly was born and raised in Hartsville, South Carolina. Her father, Ed Saleeby, Sr., was a longtime attorney and state senator. Her mother, Willie, served by his side. Both believed strongly in the power of giving back. Both instilled in Holly a keen sense of the importance of helping people. She adored her father and followed in his footsteps taking up the practice of law. It was his influence that shaped her career path. Like him, she wanted to champion the working people of South Carolina. Although he didn’t live to see the Atkins Law Firm in its current form, Holly takes comfort knowing the work she was doing furthered his legacy. In the conference room, there’s an old book that belonged to her father entitled What to do in the Event of a Filibuster. Inside there is an unopened bottle of liquor and two shot glasses. Holly enjoyed sharing that fun with other attorneys that come in or clients who knew of her daddy. There are tons of good “Big Ed” stories to be heard here.
For years, Holly handled claims out of the PeeDee and always enjoyed the opportunity to give back where she grew up. For years, Holly thought about opening an office back home and with Dewana and Joe on board, Holly was finally able to make that dream a reality. In late 2019, Atkins Law Firm opened a satellite office in Hartsville in the Saleeby building where her dad built his career. For Holly, it created a sense of coming full circle. Although the Hartsville office has since closed, the legacy and impact of Holly and her father continues to live on through Atkins Law’s work and presence in Columbia.
Personal Level
Now that Holly is retired, she loves spending time with her husband Buddy and their sweet dog Max. Holly and Buddy have one son that lives in Atlanta with his family. Perhaps her favorite pastimes are spoiling her granddaughter Rita Blake. Holly also enjoys spending time with friends and family, a good glass of wine and traveling.
With Dewana and Joe on board along with the wonderful dedicated staff, Holly is excited for what the future of the Atkins Law Firm holds in store.
In February of 2014, Ms. Atkins was recognized for her exemplary rating by both peers and clients via the Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review.
