Laurens Native Judge Matthew P. Turner Elected to South Carolina Court of Appeals
April 23, 2024
Laurens County, South Carolina, Judge Matthew P. Turner, a native son deeply rooted in community service and the practice of law, has been elected as the newest judge of the South Carolina Court of Appeals. This significant achievement marks a proud milestone for Judge Turner’s distinguished career and the local community that has shaped him.
Judge Turner’s election to the Court of Appeals, which took place on April 17, 2024, was the culmination of a rigorous selection process. Following three rounds of voting by lawmakers, Judge Turner secured 92 votes, triumphing over his opponent, Jan Bromell Holmes, who received 66 votes.
Matthew Price Turner was born and raised in Laurens County. He is the son of J. Michael Turner, Sr. and Joy Dougherty Turner and is married to Megan (Meg) Wadford Turner, with whom he has twin boys. After graduating from Laurens High School in 1996, Judge Turner pursued higher education at the University of South Carolina, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration in 2000. He subsequently obtained his Juris Doctorate from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 2003.
Judge Turner’s legal career began in Laurens, where he joined his father at the law firm of Turner & Burney, P.C., focusing in the areas of civil, criminal, and family law. He later served as General Counsel for the Laurens Commission of Public Works before being elected as Judge of the Family Court, Eighth Judicial Circuit, Seat 1, in 2018.
Throughout his career, Judge Turner has been deeply involved in community organizations and activities. He has served on the boards of various local associations, including the Laurens Mental Health Association, the Joe R. Adair Outdoor Education Center, and the YMCA of Greater Laurens, where he served as Chairman. Judge Turner’s commitment to youth development is evident through his volunteer work with the Straight Street Youth Ministry and his coaching of youth sports teams at the YMCA.
Reflecting on his election to the South Carolina Court of Appeals, Judge Turner shared his gratitude and commitment to his new role: “I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust placed in me by the General Assembly. I am committed to upholding the principles of fairness and justice that are foundational to our legal system. This opportunity allows me to continue serving the people of South Carolina with dedication and integrity.”
Eighth Circuit Solicitor David Stumbo, praised Judge Turner’s achievement, stating, “Judge Turner’s election to the South Carolina Court of Appeals is a testament to his exceptional legal expertise and unwavering dedication. I congratulate him on his ascension to this esteemed position. Judge Turner’s integrity and commitment to justice will undoubtedly serve our state with distinction.”
In addition to his professional achievements, Judge Turner is an active member of the First Baptist Church of Laurens, where he has held various leadership positions, including Chairman of the Board of Deacons and Sunday School teacher.
Laurens County congratulates Judge Turner on this momentous achievement and looks forward to his continued contributions to the legal profession and the pursuit of justice.
