CHARLESTON, S.C., July 14, 2025 — As part of its ongoing expansion in South Carolina, Saxton & Stump has added two highly respected attorneys to its Charleston office. Cherie W. Blackburn and Christy L. Rogers have joined the firm as shareholders. Blackburn will practice in the Labor and Employment, IP Litigation, and Commercial Litigation groups, while Rogers will practice in the firm’s Labor and Employment and Commercial Litigation groups.
Blackburn, a seasoned litigator with more than 35 years of experience, and Rogers, a recognized leader in employment law, bring statewide reputations and deep regional ties to Saxton & Stump’s expanding presence in the Southeast.
Both attorneys were previously shareholders at Am Law 200 firm Maynard Nexsen, where they advised clients across a range of industries. Blackburn was also previously a shareholder at Nelson Mullins, one of South Carolina’s largest law firms. Rogers formerly served as senior corporate employment counsel for Michelin North America Inc., a Fortune 500 company.
“Cherie and Christy are high-caliber attorneys who are well-known and respected across South Carolina,” said Alice F. Paylor, a senior shareholder in Saxton & Stump’s Charleston office. “Cherie, whom I have known for years, has led complex, high-stakes litigation throughout her career. Christy brings invaluable experience helping companies navigate employment law and avoid litigation. Their addition reflects our strong momentum in the Charleston market and our commitment to delivering excellence to clients.”
Blackburn is consistently recognized by leading legal publications. She is ranked by Chambers USA for labor and employment law, has been listed in Best Lawyers in America® since 2005 in five distinct practice areas, and has been named “Lawyer of the Year” multiple times in the Charleston area. She has also been listed in South Carolina Super Lawyers since 2008 and holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
An experienced speaker and published author, Blackburn has held leadership positions in several professional organizations, including the Charleston County Bar Association Executive Committee, the South Carolina Bar Association Employment and Labor Law Section, and the South Carolina Chapter of the Federal Bar Association.
Rogers has been named to the South Carolina Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” list from 2021 to 2024 in employment and labor law and was included in Best Lawyers in America® for Litigation – Labor and Employment in 2025. She has also been recognized on the Legal Elite of South Carolina list in 2020, 2022 and 2024, and frequently speaks on emerging employment law topics.
Blackburn and Rogers are graduates of the University of South Carolina School of Law and have received the prestigious Compleat Lawyer Award, one of the school’s highest honors recognizing excellence, ethics and professionalism. Blackburn earned her undergraduate degree from Emory University, and Rogers graduated cum laude from Clemson University.
“We’re happy to see this continued strategic growth of our Charleston office with the addition of connected, high-caliber lawyers whose reputations extend across South Carolina and beyond,” Saxton & Stump CEO James W. Saxton said. “Cherie and Christy exemplify the kind of talent we’re attracting — respected, experienced, and aligned with our vision for thoughtful, sustainable growth in key markets.”
The addition of Blackburn and Rogers underscores Saxton & Stump’s commitment to building a premier, full-service legal team across South Carolina and the Southeast.
Saxton & Stump’s strategic growth outlook
With over 250 professionals, including nearly 150 attorneys, Saxton & Stump’s innovative model continues to attract highly talented and experienced attorneys, driving the growth of the law firm and its affiliate companies nationwide.
Saxton & Stump provides solutions for complex legal issues and partners with clients to create a roadmap for their success. The firm is committed to empowering clients by delivering five-star service and results-focused advice.
