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headshot of ryan trail, williams mullen partner

Ryan W. Trail

Partner
Columbia, SC
  • T.
  • 803.567.4605
  • F.
  • 803.567.4601

Ryan Trail represents companies facing complex environmental regulatory issues in the industrial, manufacturing, real estate and banking industries. He helps companies maintain compliance with constantly evolving environmental laws and regulations, and he counsels landowners, potential purchasers and lenders on environmental liabilities related to contaminated real estate. Ryan also helps clients obtain and comply with numerous environmental permits, including industrial wastewater discharge permits, stormwater permits and air permits.

Ryan counsels clients on matters involving the Clean Air Act (CAA), the Clean Water Act (CWA) and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA or Superfund). He also advises industrial clients on chemical reporting requirements featured in the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). Ryan frequently advises clients on matters involving the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the South Carolina Department of Health & Environmental Control (DHEC).

He has been recognized in Greenville Business Magazine's "Legal Elite of the Upstate" for Environmental Law (2014, 2019, 2021) and "Legal Elite of the Midlands" for Environmental Law (2020).  Ryan serves on the Greenville Chamber of Commerce’s Environmental Issues Committee and is involved with business-related trade associations throughout South Carolina, including the South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance, the Upstate Employers Network and the Carolinas Air Pollution Control Association.

Ryan earned his J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 2008. He graduated with his B.A. in History from Presbyterian College in 2004.

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Education
  • University of South Carolina School of Law (J.D.), 2008
  • Presbyterian College (B.A. History), 2004
Professional & Community Affiliations

Professional Affiliations

  • American Bar Association – Section of Environment, Energy and Resources
  • South Carolina Bar Association – Member
  • Greenville County Bar Association – Young Lawyers Division
  • Greenville Chamber of Commerce – Environmental Issues Committee
  • Greenville Chamber of Commerce – Opportunity Greenville, Spring 2009 Graduate
Bar & Court Admissions

Bar Admissions

  • South Carolina State Bar
Honors

Columbia Business Monthly – "Legal Elite of the Upstate," Environmental Law (2014, 2019, 2021)

Columbia Business Monthly – "Legal Elite of the Midlands," Environmental Law (2020, 2024)

The Best Lawyers in America® - Environmental Law (2024-present)

Chambers USA – Environmental Law (2024)

“Ryan consistently demonstrates attentiveness and responsiveness. His proactive approach and swift communication contribute significantly to the overall efficiency and success of our legal endeavors.”

Williams Mullen Client Feedback - Chambers USA, 2024