Charleston, SC – September 20, 2024
Bland Richter LLP, representing Adrian Lewis in a civil lawsuit against former South Carolina Representative Marvin Pendarvis, issues the following statement regarding Rep. Pendarvis’s recent resignation from the state House of Representatives:
Rep. Marvin Pendarvis has submitted his resignation to South Carolina House Speaker Murrell Smith, citing an inability to effectively serve his constituents amid ongoing legal challenges. This resignation comes in the wake of a civil lawsuit filed by Adrian Lewis, a former client, alleging malpractice and the unauthorized settlement of a case.
Ronnie Richter, attorney for Adrian Lewis, stated, “We find the entire situation surrounding the demise of Representative Pendarvis to be very disappointing. He appeared to be an important voice for his community, but chose instead to misuse the authority of his office as a lawyer and as a state representative. The people deserve better. Hopefully, he is addressing whatever issues led to his fall from grace.”
The lawsuit, filed in April, claims that Pendarvis forged Lewis’s signature to settle a lawsuit against the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office without permission. The settlement, allegedly for $10,000, was far below the $325,000 valuation Pendarvis had reportedly given to Lewis.
In addition to the civil suit, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is conducting an ongoing investigation into the matter, as requested by First Circuit Solicitor David Pascoe. No criminal charges have been filed at this time.
Eric Bland, partner at Bland Richter LLP, added, “While we find no joy in seeing a public representative misuse the trust he was given, we are glad he is being held accountable for his actions. This case underscores the importance of integrity in both legal practice and public service.”
Pendarvis’s law license was suspended in May by the South Carolina Supreme Court, though no specific reason was provided for the suspension. He had been running unopposed for a fifth term in office, representing a district near Charleston. A special election will now be held to fill the vacant seat.
Bland Richter LLP remains committed to pursuing justice for Adrian Lewis and ensuring that all legal professionals and public servants are held to the highest standards of ethical conduct.