Heather V. Scalzo

An accomplished family court litigator, Heather V. Scalzo brings over 20 years of courtroom experience to clients throughout upstate South Carolina, including Greenville, Pickens, Anderson, Oconee, Spartanburg, and Laurens counties. She provides compassionate and personalized legal representation tailored to each client’s unique circumstances—whether they are contemplating marriage, considering divorce, facing complex financial matters, contesting custody, planning an adoption, or navigating abuse allegations.

Beyond family court litigation, she also handles appeals in family law cases and has argued before the S.C. Court of Appeals and the S.C. Supreme Court.

Her legal career includes extensive experience representing youth in criminal proceedings and school disciplinary matters. As a contract public defender for 14 years, she worked with over two thousand young clients and was recognized by the S.C. Public Defender Association as Juvenile Defender of the Year for her commitment and advocacy. She currently represents clients in school expulsion cases from elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as at colleges and universities.

This deep experience with youth representation complements her work in family law, particularly in high-conflict custody disputes. With a strong understanding of child development, special education, and mental health issues, she helps parents craft effective parenting plans and custody arrangements. Known for her ability to guide clients through sensitive and challenging legal matters, she combines strategic thinking with empathy to achieve positive outcomes.

As a S.C. Supreme Court Certified Family Court Mediator, Heathers assists parties in negotiating settlements by fostering productive discussions to help reach fair, amicable resolutions. With a deep understanding of family dynamics and legal complexities, she guides parties through the mediation process, reducing conflict and avoiding the emotional and financial strain of litigation. Whether addressing divorce, custody, child support, or other family law matters, she helps parties find common ground and craft agreements that prioritize their best interests and the well-being of their children.

Education

• Emory University, BA, 1996
• Rutgers University School of Law, JD, 2002

Professional Associations

• South Carolina Bar Association
• Greenville County Bar Association, Executive Committee
• Leadership Greenville, Class 52
• Junior League of Greenville, Sustainer Committee
• Former Vice President of Fund Development
• Former Strategic Planner on the Board of Directors

Recognitions

• Legal Elite for Education Law and Family Law, various years
• TALK Magazine’s Top Lawyers, 2025
• S.C. Public Defender Association’s Juvenile Defender of the Year, 2012

Certifications

• S.C. Supreme Court Certified Family Court Mediator
• Gault Center (formerly National Juvenile Defender Center) Certified Juvenile Training Immersion Program Trainer