CHARLESTON, S.C., May 21, 2026 — Saxton & Stump shareholder Alice F. Paylor has been named to South Carolina Lawyers Weekly’s 2026 “Influential Women of Law” list, a prestigious recognition honoring accomplished female attorneys whose leadership, advocacy, and professional excellence have made a lasting impact on the state’s legal profession.
With more than four decades of distinguished service, Paylor has built an exceptional career representing businesses, governmental entities, and individuals in high-stakes legal matters throughout South Carolina and across the United States. As a member of Saxton & Stump’s Labor and Employment, Litigation, Education, and Business Litigation and Strategic Solutions groups, she provides strategic counsel in complex commercial litigation, probate and estate litigation, zoning matters, labor and employment disputes, and sensitive investigations.
“Throughout my career, I have been passionate about advancing women in the legal profession and supporting future generations of attorneys,” Paylor said. “To witness the continued strength and influence of women shaping our profession is incredibly rewarding, and I am truly honored by this recognition.”
Paylor’s career is defined not only by enthusiastic legal advocacy but also by sustained leadership within the profession. She served as president of the South Carolina Bar from 2013 to 2014 and has represented her peers in the organization’s House of Delegates since 2000. Her longstanding commitment to advancing women in law includes serving as president of the South Carolina Women Lawyers Association and as a member of the American Bar Association Commission on Women in the Profession. In recognition of her dedication to mentorship, the Supreme Court of South Carolina honored her with the G. Dewey Oxner Jr. Mentor of the Year Award.
Her professional achievements have earned widespread national recognition. Since 2009, Best Lawyers in America© has consistently recognized Paylor across six practice areas, including Bet-the-Company Litigation, Commercial Litigation, and Labor and Employment. Best Lawyers in America has also named Paylor “Lawyer of the Year” three times, and she holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the highest standards of legal ability and ethical practice. In 2021, Paylor was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the most selective trial advocacy organizations in North America.
“Alice represents the very best of the legal profession,” Saxton & Stump Chairman James W. Saxton said. “Her remarkable career, unwavering commitment to clients, and dedication to mentoring future legal leaders have made a profound impact throughout South Carolina and beyond. This recognition is a fitting tribute to her extraordinary influence and legacy.”
Paylor is a graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Law and earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of North Carolina.
Saxton & Stump’s strategic growth outlook
Saxton & Stump continues to expand its Charleston office, offering a full range of legal and consulting services across South Carolina. The firm is a dynamic, full-service organization of 300 professionals, including more than 150 attorneys and more than 40 paralegals across 11 offices. This expanding platform enhances the firm’s ability to serve clients and includes seven growing affiliated companies that extend its business advisory reach nationwide.
Saxton & Stump provides solutions to complex legal and business challenges with five-star service and results-focused advice, offering a refreshingly different experience for clients, attorneys, and business professionals alike.
