The defining moments of a lifetime often arrive unexpectedly. For Attorney Charles Buist, Esq., those moments came early. As a child, he witnessed a horrific auto accident caused by a vehicle defect that left his parents severely injured. The helplessness he felt during that time left a mark that would never fade.
That early exposure to pain and injustice became the seed of a lifelong mission: to stand for those who have been wronged and guide them to justice. Charles turned the frustration of being powerless into the determination to fight for others, laying the foundation for the attorney he would become.
His childhood experiences didn’t just ignite a sense of duty—they created a perspective that continues to guide every decision in his professional life. Today, Charles Buist channels that energy into representing clients in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, ensuring that people who have suffered catastrophic injuries receive the voice and advocacy they deserve.
The story of attorney Charles Buist, Esq., is a testament to how personal trials can forge a lifelong commitment to justice.
Lessons From Early Life in Dentistry
Growing up, Charles spent countless hours in his father’s dental office. His father, Dr. Buist, raised him as a single parent, and Charles often assisted as a dental assistant. In that setting, he witnessed patients arrive with serious injuries—some caused by accidents, others by careless or reckless behavior. Watching these patients struggle through treatment and the long-term consequences of their injuries left an impression that shaped his outlook on life.
It wasn’t just the medical details that stood out; it was the human side of suffering and resilience. Observing people navigate pain, recovery, and the frustration of being wronged taught Charles the value of empathy and advocacy. These lessons became the bedrock of his approach as a lawyer. He learned early that legal battles are not just about statutes—they are about people, their stories, and their need for a fair chance at justice.
Building a Career With Purpose
Charles and his law partner, Nicholas Spetsas, founded Spetsas Buist in Orlando, Florida, in 2021. Starting from scratch in one of the most competitive markets in the country was no small feat. From the very beginning, the firm committed to helping clients navigate complex personal injury cases with integrity and determination. Attorney Buist’s early experiences had prepared him to confront high-stakes challenges and fight vigorously for his clients.
Through this work, Charles and his team have taken on cases ranging from automobile accidents to workplace injuries, always focusing on giving clients a voice and ensuring they are not overpowered by insurance companies or large corporations. Their approach emphasizes meticulous preparation, relentless advocacy, and a deep understanding of the personal impact of each case.
Partnering With the Best
In 2025, Spetsas Buist became the official Florida counsel for Trial Lawyers for Justice. This partnership brought the firm into collaboration with some of the most decorated trial attorneys in the country. Trial Lawyers for Justice is known for securing billions in verdicts and settlements for injured clients nationwide. Working alongside this elite group has enhanced Charles Buist’s expertise, allowing him to handle catastrophic and high-stakes cases with unparalleled guidance and strategy.
This alliance underscores the firm’s commitment to delivering exceptional results and standing up for those who have suffered the most serious injuries. Attorney Buist sees every case as an opportunity to uphold his mission of giving clients a voice, and this partnership amplifies his capacity to do so.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Charles’ dedication to excellence extends beyond the courtroom. During law school, he earned four CALI Excellence for the Future Awards, recognizing the highest grades in legal courses, including Legal Research, Analysis, and Writing. He also served as a Research Editor for the South Carolina Law Review, consistently made the Dean’s List, and held leadership positions in the Student Bar Association. These accomplishments reflect a deep commitment to mastering the law and honing the skills necessary to advocate effectively.
This academic foundation has translated seamlessly into practical litigation skills. Attorney Buist approaches each case with analytical precision, careful preparation, and a relentless drive to ensure clients receive the representation they deserve.
Competitive Spirit in Life and Law
Competition has always been a defining characteristic of Charles Buist. From skeet shooting to amateur boxing and extreme obstacle course racing, Charles has consistently sought challenges that test both his mental and physical endurance. Winning the Junior World Championships in skeet shooting and excelling in boxing tournaments taught him discipline, focus, and resilience.
These qualities translate directly to the courtroom, where strategy, determination, and stamina are essential. Attorney Buist channels the same competitive drive into representing clients, ensuring he is prepared to fight for justice with the same intensity he has brought to sports and personal challenges throughout his life.
Family and Personal Life
Charles’ dedication extends beyond his professional life. He and his wife, Alexa, a former Division 1 collegiate volleyball player, share three children: Charlie, William, and Madeline. The couple values fitness, adventure, and family time, often enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the beaches of Florida and South Carolina. Charles also pursues gardening, testing his patience and persistence in nurturing plant,s much like he nurtures his clients’ cases.
Family life has shaped Charles’ perspective on balance, empathy, and commitment. These values are visible in the way he interacts with clients, offering understanding and guidance while ensuring rigorous legal advocacy.
End Note
Attorney Charles Buist, Esq., has built a career defined by resilience, purpose, and advocacy. From his formative experiences with family trauma and early exposure to injury, to his academic and professional accomplishments, Charles has turned personal challenges into a mission to represent those who cannot fight alone.
He approaches every case with preparation, determination, and compassion, always focused on achieving results that improve his clients’ lives. Attorney Buist’s story is a powerful example of how personal experience, combined with skill and dedication, can create a legal advocate who stands firmly for justice.