9 DECADES OF LEGAL EXCELLENCE
joe van every 1
9 DECADES OF LEGAL EXCELLENCE
joe van every 1

Results Matter

Recognized Excellence

Awards & Ratings

Trusted by clients and respected by peers — our credentials reflect decades of dedication to legal excellence.
images
MVTLA Top 25
MEf105a036ed811579e6a08642b724d129 1
dui dla
National college DUI
aaj logo white
327222217 1850695905331603 6465909444276707004 n removebg preview 1
NTL logo main generic white 1
MAJ
Google Guaranteed
Google 5 Star
Yelp
Justia
Martindale
Avvo
mmdaf blk
cropped NHTLA Top 10
90297875974518 1
MAF Top 30 1 2
Dispatch Ribbon 2026
National TBI Association Member Seal Dec 1

Legal Services in Mississippi

Where Legal Challenges Meet Proven Solutions

Personal Injury

PERSONAL INJURY

Dedicated legal representation for individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others. We fight relentlessly for your rights and pursue maximum compensation.

Read More

CRIMINAL LAW

CRIMINAL LAW

Expert criminal defense representation protecting your constitutional rights and freedom. Our experienced attorneys provide aggressive advocacy for all criminal charges.

Read More

ESTATE PLANNING

ESTATE PLANNING

Comprehensive estate planning services designed to protect your assets and secure your family's financial future. Professional guidance for all aspects of legacy planning.

Read More

FAMILY LAW

FAMILY LAW

Compassionate and skilled legal support for sensitive family matters. We provide experienced representation with empathy and care for all family legal needs.

Read More

REAL ESTATE LAW

REAL ESTATE LAW

Complete real estate legal services for residential and commercial transactions. Expert guidance through complex property law matters and disputes.

Read More

CIVIL LITIGATION

CIVIL LITIGATION

Skilled civil litigation representation for complex disputes and legal conflicts. Professional advocacy to protect your interests in all civil matters.

Read More

What We DO

Comprehensive Legal Services by Practice Area

Case Results

$1.12M

Wrongful Death

$400K

Personal Injury

$380K

Personal Injury

$375K

Car Wreck

$255K

Personal Injury

$250K

Car Accident

$50K

Car Wreck

$1

Trucking Accident

$XXX,XXX

Confidential Settlement

NOT GUILTY

Falsely Accused of Intimating Witness

NOT GUILTY

Falsely Accused of Sexual Assault of Minor

NOT GUILTY

Murder Case

DISMISSED

100+ DUI’s

NOT GUILTY

Murder Case

HUNG JURY (MIS TRIAL)

Murder Case

Van Every Law

featured on

imgi 6 width 150 1
yahoo finance
imgi 5 width 150
imgi 9 width 150
imgi 12 width 150 1
imgi 4 width 150
imgi 8 width 150 1
imgi 15 width 150
Benzinga

Mississippi Law firm

WHY HIRE US

For over nine decades, Van Every Law has been a pillar of legal excellence in Columbus, MS, and its surrounding areas. As a trusted third-generation Mississippi law firm, we pride ourselves on treating our clients like family, ensuring personalized attention and unwavering support. 

Our mission is to uphold justice and provide comprehensive legal solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. With deep roots in the community, we continue to honor our legacy by delivering exceptional legal services with compassion and respect. If you are hurt or injured in a car accident, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, wrongful death,  estate planning, family law matter, or any other legal services we are here to help and fight for you.
Practice Areas
1 +
Mississippi Residents Helped
1 's
Google Rating
1
Years of Experience
1 +

Discover the Legacy of Van Every Law

Since our inception, Van Every Law has been dedicated to excellence and community service.
1942

Founding of Van Every Law

H.K. Van Every, II establishes the firm, laying the foundation for a legacy of legal excellence in Columbus, MS and serving the entire State of Mississippi.

1981

A New Generation of Leadership

David S. Van Every, Sr. takes the helm, expanding the firm's reach and reinforcing its commitment to client advocacy.

1990

Expansion Into New Practice Areas

Van Every Law broadens its expertise to include personal injury, medical malpractice, oil and gas law, family law, estate planning, and more, ensuring comprehensive legal support for all clients.

2022

Celebrating 9 Decades of Service

Marking 9 decades of dedicated service, Van Every Law continues to uphold its tradition of treating clients like family.

Testimonials

Third-Generation MS Law Firm: Protecting Your Rights with Integrity and Care

Take the first step towards resolving your legal matters by contacting our experienced team at Van Every Law. Whether you need assistance with personal injury claims, family law issues, or any other legal concerns, our dedicated attorneys are here to help. Schedule your consultation today and let us provide the support and expertise you deserve.

imgi 2 hero bg

Frequently Asked Questions

Personal Injury
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, you generally have three years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there are exceptions to this rule, so it's important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident.
Personal Injury
What is Mississippi's comparative fault rule?
Mississippi follows a pure comparative fault system. This means you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're found 30% at fault, you can still recover 70% of your damages.
Personal Injury
Can I sue for punitive damages in Mississippi personal injury cases?
Yes, Mississippi allows punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence, willful misconduct, or malicious conduct. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior, separate from compensatory damages.
Criminal Law
What are the DUI penalties in Mississippi?
First-time DUI offenders in Mississippi face fines up to $1,000, up to 48 hours in jail, and license suspension for 120 days. Penalties increase significantly for subsequent offenses, with potential felony charges for third and subsequent DUIs.
Criminal Law
Can I get a DUI expunged in Mississippi?
Mississippi allows expungement of first-time DUI convictions under certain circumstances, including completion of all court requirements and waiting periods. However, commercial drivers and those with subsequent offenses typically cannot expunge DUI records.
Criminal Law
What is Mississippi's habitual offender law?
Mississippi's habitual offender law increases penalties for repeat felony offenders. A third felony conviction can result in life imprisonment without parole, while a second violent felony can lead to enhanced sentencing under the "three strikes" provision.
Family Law
What are the grounds for divorce in Mississippi?
Mississippi recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds for divorce. No-fault grounds include irreconcilable differences and living separate and apart. Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, imprisonment, and habitual drunkenness or drug use.
Family Law
How does Mississippi divide property in divorce?
Mississippi follows equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Courts consider factors like each spouse's contribution to the marriage, economic circumstances, and custody arrangements when dividing assets and debts.
Family Law
What factors do Mississippi courts consider for child custody?
Mississippi courts use the "best interests of the child" standard, considering factors such as each parent's moral fitness, continuity of care, home stability, each parent's capacity to provide care, and the child's preference if they're of sufficient age and maturity.
Civil Litigation
What is the statute of limitations for breach of contract in Mississippi?
Mississippi has a three-year statute of limitations for breach of written contracts and a three-year limit for breach of oral contracts. The time period typically begins when the breach occurs or when the injured party discovers the breach.
Civil Litigation
What is the difference between mediation and arbitration in Mississippi?
Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral mediator helps parties reach a settlement, but the mediator cannot impose a decision. Arbitration involves a neutral arbitrator who hears evidence and makes a binding decision that typically cannot be appealed.
Civil Litigation
Can I recover attorney's fees in a civil lawsuit in Mississippi?
Mississippi generally follows the "American Rule" where each party pays their own attorney's fees. However, fees may be recoverable if provided for by contract, statute, or in cases involving bad faith conduct or frivolous litigation.
Real Estate
What are the seller disclosure requirements in Mississippi?
Mississippi does not have a comprehensive statutory disclosure requirement for sellers. However, sellers must disclose known material defects and cannot actively conceal problems. It's advisable to provide written disclosures to avoid potential liability.
Real Estate
How long does a real estate closing take in Mississippi?
Real estate closings in Mississippi typically take 30-45 days from the acceptance of a purchase offer. The timeline can vary based on financing, inspections, title issues, and other contingencies outlined in the purchase agreement.
Real Estate
What is title insurance and do I need it in Mississippi?
Title insurance protects against defects in property ownership, liens, or other title issues. While not legally required in Mississippi, most lenders require it, and it's highly recommended to protect your investment in the property.
Estate Planning
What happens if someone dies without a will in Mississippi?
If someone dies without a will in Mississippi, their property passes according to state intestacy laws. Generally, property goes to the surviving spouse and children, or if no spouse/children exist, to other relatives in a specific order determined by law. This process may not reflect the deceased's actual wishes.
Estate Planning
What is the difference between a will and a trust in Mississippi?
A will distributes assets after death and must go through probate. A trust can hold and distribute assets during your lifetime and after death, often avoiding probate. Trusts provide more privacy and can offer tax benefits but are more complex and expensive to establish.
Estate Planning
What is a power of attorney in Mississippi?
A power of attorney is a legal document that allows someone (the agent) to act on your behalf in financial or legal matters. Mississippi recognizes durable powers of attorney that remain effective even if you become incapacitated, and healthcare powers of attorney for medical decisions.

No questions found in this category.

Still Have Questions?

Our experienced attorneys are here to help with your specific legal needs. Contact Van Every Law today for a consultation.

Call Us: (662) 502-5353

Discover the Legacy of Van Every Law

joe van every 1