Buster supports his dad and named his son for him, Alex Murdaugh’s defense reveals – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Supreme Court has overturned Alex Murdaugh’s convictions for the murders of his wife and younger son, clearing the way for a new trial. The ruling came after justices determined that the Colleton County clerk of court had improperly influenced the jury. For Murdaugh’s surviving son, Buster, the decision arrives as he continues to stand by his father through every stage of the case.
Defense Team Reacts to Sudden Reversal
Defense attorney Dick Harpootlian described his client’s disbelief when the news arrived. “He said, ‘I read the opinion, I hear what you say, I still don’t believe it,’” Harpootlian told Court TV. Murdaugh had expected no reversal from the start and remained pessimistic even after the opinion was issued.
The legal team now shifts focus to preparing for a second trial. Harpootlian noted that the first proceeding cost the defense roughly $600,000. Neither he nor co-counsel Jim Griffin will accept additional payment from the Murdaugh family this time, treating the original flat fee as covering the entire matter until it concludes.
Buster Murdaugh’s Quiet Loyalty
Throughout the original trial and its aftermath, Buster Murdaugh has remained one of his father’s most consistent supporters. Harpootlian described their relationship as close and affectionate, with frequent visits and conversations. Buster recently married and welcomed a child, whom he named after his father.
That personal choice underscores the family’s continued bond despite the gravity of the charges. Harpootlian characterized the connection as strong and enduring, noting that Buster has never wavered in his support even after the guilty verdicts were handed down.
State Plans Speedy Retrial
Attorney General Alan Wilson announced that prosecutors intend to move forward quickly. He said the state is evaluating its legal strategy and aims to hold a retrial by the end of the year. Wilson also left open the possibility of asking the state Supreme Court to reconsider or appealing to the U.S. Supreme Court within the allowed time frames.
Harpootlian dismissed the proposed timeline as unrealistic and politically motivated, pointing out that Wilson is currently campaigning for governor. He argued that any genuine desire for speed should include cooperation on changing the trial venue to ensure fairness for both sides.
Defense Eyes New Evidence and Strategy
Harpootlian expressed confidence heading into the retrial, criticizing the original investigation for its lack of forensic evidence. He described the prosecution’s case as riddled with gaps. The defense is also exploring potential third-party suspects and plans to introduce new details at an upcoming news conference.
Those announcements, Harpootlian said, will include developments he believes will interest the public. The team continues to review the record while preparing arguments that challenge the strength of the state’s evidence from the first trial.
The case now returns to the starting line, with both sides preparing for a second round that could reshape the outcome for everyone involved.
