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Joe Rice, a legendary South Carolina lawyer who won major legal battles against asbestos, tobacco and opioid companies, has died.. He was 72.
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At the time of his death, Rice was one of a number of lawyers who had just forced the social media company Meta into a multibillion dollar settlement that is expected to bring guardrails that will limit children’s exposure to social media.
“Joe Rice’s negotiating skills made a real and lasting difference for millions of people throughout the nation. But here at home, his impact was just as profound. His quiet generosity touched the lives of nearly everyone throughout the State of South Carolina,” said, Don Migliori, a Motley Rice member attorney in a statement released by the firm.
In 2023, Rice and his family donated $30 million to the University of South Carolina law school, which was renamed the USC Joseph F. Rice School of Law. Rice was a 1979 graduate of the law school.
His death was announced Thursday night by his firm, Motley Rice.
“It is with overwhelming profound sadness that we share the passing of Joe Rice.
“His death today was sudden and unexpected, and we are all heartbroken by this tremendous loss.
“As you know, Joe was far more than a visionary leader to us at Motley Rice. He was a pioneer, an innovator, a fierce advocate for justice, and a loyal friend to so many.
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“As we mourn this heartbreaking loss, we also celebrate a life of extraordinary purpose and service. Please know that when arrangements are made, they will be shared. Thank you in advance for your support.”
The Rice School of Law released the following statement:
“The University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law is heartbroken by the sad and unexpected passing of our dear friend Joe Rice.
“We are proud and honored that the law school bears his name. Joe Rice’s legacy will live in perpetuity through the generations of law students who have been and will be supported through his kind generosity.
“Our hearts go out to his beloved wife Lisa, daughter Ann E. Rice Ervin, grandson Beckett, son-in-law Tucker Ervin, and to his treasured colleagues at Motley Rice.”
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This is a breaking news story and will be updated.