Derwood L. Aydlette, III

A certified employment lawyer and labor lawyer specializing in labor and employment law, Dirk has been practicing law for twenty-five years. Having spent the first seven years of his practice as a plaintiffs’ attorney provides him with a unique perspective on now defending employment lawsuits.

With extensive experience in discrimination, handbook, civil conspiracy, and defamation cases, Dirk has litigated more than 180 federal cases, and has represented clients in cases arising in 40 of South Carolina’s 46 counties, as well as several state and national class actions. Dirk has also argued before the South Carolina Supreme Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. His clients regularly include public-sector employers and health care providers, among others.

Dirk received his undergraduate degree from Clemson University and his law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law. He is a former adjunct professor and is a frequent speaker at continuing legal education programs. Dirk is a certified state and federal civil court mediator. He is also a past member of the South Carolina Bar’s Ethics Advisory Committee, as well as a past Board Member of the Neighborhood Legal Assistance Program. He is a graduate of Leadership Beaufort and a recipient of the Bar’s annual Pro Bono Service Award.

Dirk is a musician, singer, and songwriter. He enjoys travel, Clemson athletics, and volunteering at Carolina Wildlife Center. Dirk was born in Savannah, Georgia.

• University of South Carolina, J.D., 1989
• Clemson University, B.S., 1986

• South Carolina, 1989
• U.S. District Court, District of South Carolina, 1990
• U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit, 1990

• Certified Specialist, Employment and Labor Law
• Certified Civil Court Mediator, State & Federal Courts
• Past Member, South Carolina Bar Ethics Advisory and Practice and Procedure Committees
• Graduate, Leadership Beaufort