About Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys
At Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys, we don’t measure success by trying to be the largest personal injury law firm in the country. What matters to us is being trusted advocates, neighbors, and community members who use our experience, skill, and relentless work ethic to protect the rights and safety of individuals and families throughout South Carolina and North Carolina.
Our commitment to our clients, the communities we serve, and doing things the right way has guided our firm since its founding and continues to define who we are today.
Our Founders and Firm Legacy
Luther C. “Luke” Elrod, III (1943–2013)
Luther C. “Luke” Elrod, III was an Eagle Scout who grew up in Greenville, South Carolina. He earned his undergraduate degree from Furman University and his law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Luke then proudly served overseas as a U.S. Army JAG officer.
Upon his honorable discharge, Luke founded our law firm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, in 1980 with a simple but powerful motto: “Helping Injured People.” More than four decades later, that mission remains at the heart of everything we do.
As our firm has grown to serve clients across South Carolina and North Carolina in personal injury, wrongful death, and workers’ compensation cases, we have never lost sight of Luke’s belief that every client deserves personal attention, respect, and tireless advocacy.
“Luke was a hardworking, blue-collar professional who was courteous to others, held high standards of integrity, and believed in treating people the right way. He had a special ability to relate to just about anyone,” says Managing Partner Ben Leader, who knew Luke as a child.
“We still say around here, ‘Work like Luke would work,’” Ben explains. “His grit, professionalism, and integrity set the tone for our firm and continue to guide us.”
Jack G. Leader (1946–2025)
Another cornerstone of our firm’s history is Jack G. Leader, a lifelong Rock Hill native and one of the most respected attorneys to practice law in York County. Jack passed away in 2025 after a distinguished legal career spanning more than 50 years.
Jack graduated from Rock Hill High School, earned his undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and received his law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law. He served as an Assistant Solicitor in York County before joining the firm as a partner in 1989, working alongside Luke Elrod and helping to open the firm’s personal injury practice. Jack guided the firm through decades of growth.
Known for his integrity, compassion, and tireless advocacy, Jack brought a rare perspective shaped by experience on both the plaintiff and defense sides of the courtroom. He was also a devoted mentor to countless younger attorneys and staff members throughout his career, affectionately earning the nickname “the Godfather” within the firm.
Jack’s influence extended well beyond the law. He was a founding member and former president of Hospice & Community Care in Rock Hill and remained deeply involved in civic, charitable, and professional organizations throughout his life.
Jack’s legacy lives on through his son, Ben Leader, who serves as a Managing Partner of the firm and continues to lead Elrod Pope with the same values of professionalism, service, and advocacy.
Thomas E. “Tommy” Pope
The “Pope” in Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys refers to Thomas E. “Tommy” Pope, our Senior Counsel and a Rock Hill native who continues to actively practice law and serve clients today.
Tommy earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of South Carolina and merged his practice with the former Elrod Law Firm in 2008, helping usher the firm into its modern era.
Before joining the firm, Tommy spent decades in public service. He served as an agent with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and later as the elected Solicitor (District Attorney) for the 16th Judicial Circuit, which includes York and Union counties. In 1995, he gained national recognition for his prosecution of Susan Smith. He currently serves as the Speaker Pro Tempore of the South Carolina House of Representatives.
Today, Tommy works side by side with his son, Preston Pope, continuing a family legacy rooted in justice, trial experience, and service. Their collaboration reflects the firm’s commitment to mentorship, continuity, and honoring the generations who built its foundation.
Our Approach
At Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys, we believe that pursuing maximum compensation and providing exceptional client service go hand in hand. For more than 45 years, we have put our clients first in everything we do.
- We listen. We meet clients wherever it is most convenient—whether in our office, at home, in the hospital, or virtually. Our team is available 24/7.
- We work hard. Every case receives the full benefit of our experience, resources, and attention to detail.
- We communicate. When clients call, we call back. We provide clear explanations, regular updates, and access to a secure client portal, along with team members dedicated to enhancing the client experience.
Our Communities
Our firm began in a small office on Black Street in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Today, we proudly serve clients from offices in Rock Hill, York, Fort Mill, Lancaster, Lake Wylie, and Charlotte, North Carolina.
We believe serving the community means more than handling cases. Our attorneys and staff are actively involved in local legal, civic, and charitable organizations throughout South Carolina and North Carolina.
Our Results
Over the years, we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of injured clients across South Carolina and North Carolina, including numerous multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts.
While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, they reflect our experience, resources, and commitment to pursuing the best possible result for every client.
Your Experience With Our Firm
Every case begins with a free consultation. You will first speak with a member of our intake team, followed by a conversation with an experienced personal injury lawyer who will review your case, explain the law, and outline your options.
We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you. Once retained, our team immediately begins working to protect your rights and pursue the maximum recovery available.
Contact a South Carolina & North Carolina Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our firm’s decades of experience, family legacy, and dedicated advocacy work for you.
