Julie Stewart - Branchville High School '10

JULIE STEWART: A BRANCHVILLE NATIVE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN LAW AND COMMUNITY

Julie Stewart, a 2010 graduate of Branchville High School, has carved out an inspiring career in law, all while staying connected to the small town that helped shape her. A native of Branchville, South Carolina, Julie’s journey is proof to the power of determination, hard work, and community support. Today, she serves as both an attorney and a part-time magistrate judge for Dorchester County, but her success didn’t happen overnight.

Julie’s upbringing was one of strong family values and a sense of community. Growing up on a farm outside of Branchville, she was always surrounded by a close-knit group of people who supported one another. “Branchville has always been home. It’s where I grew up, and it’s where I learned the importance of hard work and supporting each other,” Julie shared. Her parents—her mother, a nurse, and her father, who worked at the local utility company—taught her the value of responsibility and service to others.

Her time at Branchville High School was filled with memorable moments, and it was there that she first discovered her love for sports and community involvement. “I played volleyball and softball throughout high school. I also played club volleyball outside of school,” Julie said. “But more than the sports, I had teachers who truly cared about me. Dr. Westberry made a lasting impact on me. She inspired me to be curious, to ask questions, and to always strive for more.”

After graduating from Branchville High, Julie went on to attend Clemson University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. “I always had an interest in law, and Political Science felt like the right fit for me. I loved reading and writing, and it just made sense to pursue law school after college,” she explained.

Julie attended the Charleston School of Law, graduating in 2016. She passed the South Carolina Bar in 2017 and went on to practice law in private practice while gaining experience in various areas of law. In 2020, Julie was sworn into the Federal Court for the District of South Carolina and into the D.C. Bar in 2018. But her career didn’t stop there.

Julie’s passion for public service led her to become a part-time magistrate judge for Dorchester County. “I always wanted to be a judge. It’s something I’ve aspired to for a long time. Being a magistrate judge has been a great opportunity to serve the community while continuing to practice law,” she shared. As part of her work, Julie serves two days a week as a magistrate judge and also works as a criminal defense attorney at the DeMott Law Firm.

Julie’s story is an inspiring one. From growing up in a small town to becoming a lawyer and magistrate judge, she has remained grounded and dedicated to the values of service, fairness, and integrity. “Branchville gave me the foundation I needed to succeed. The teachers, the community—it all shaped who I am today,” she said.

Julie Stewart’s journey shows that no matter where you start, with hard work, determination, and a strong support system, anything is possible. She continues to serve as a role model for students and professionals alike, proving that success isn’t defined by where you’re from, but by what you do with the opportunities you’re given.