It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our founder, colleague, mentor, and friend, Steve Sumner.
Steve passed away on March 24, 2026, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that extends far beyond the courtroom. For nearly three decades, Steve dedicated his life to serving clients across Upstate South Carolina with compassion, integrity, and relentless advocacy.
Born on March 11, 1964, Steve was raised in Taylors, South Carolina by his loving parents, Wayne and Nancy Sumner. From an early age, he was known for his competitive spirit, leadership, and determination. He excelled in athletics throughout his childhood and high school years, lettering in both football and baseball at Eastside High School before continuing his football career at Appalachian State under Coach Mack Brown.
Steve later transferred to the University of South Carolina, where he graduated from the USC School of Law in 1992. While at USC, he earned recognition for superior academic achievement as a member of the “Order of the Wig and Robe” and was part of the university’s Mock Trial Competition winning team.
After serving as a state prosecutor from 1992 to 1994, Steve opened his own criminal defense practice in Greenville in 1997. What began as a small practice grew into one of the most respected DUI defense firms in South Carolina.
Throughout his distinguished legal career, Steve was nationally and locally recognized for his work defending clients accused of DUI, Felony DUI, traffic offenses, and drug charges. He was named a Super Lawyer for DUI Defense for 14 consecutive years and was included on the Best Lawyers list for DUI Defense for 12 consecutive years, including being named “Lawyer of the Year” three times.
But Steve’s impact cannot be measured by awards alone.
He represented more than 5,000 clients, handled over 500 jury trials, and earned the trust and respect of countless individuals and families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Steve believed deeply in justice, second chances, and fighting tirelessly for every client who walked through the firm’s doors.
In 2020, Steve was joined by his friend and law partner, Scott Todd. Together, they shared a commitment to excellence in criminal defense and built a firm grounded in hard work, honesty, and unwavering client advocacy.
Outside of the office, Steve was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He loved traveling with his wife Janet, spending time at Lake Cherokee, chasing trout across the country, and enjoying movies with the people he loved most. Those who knew Steve will remember his larger-than-life personality, generosity, sharp wit, and fierce loyalty to family and friends.
While Steve’s passing leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy will continue through the countless lives he impacted and through the work he built here at Sumner & Todd.
We remain committed to carrying forward the values Steve instilled in this firm: compassion for our clients, excellence in advocacy, and an unwavering dedication to justice. His influence will continue to guide everything we do.
Steve Sumner’s legacy will not only be remembered — it will continue.