Mark Tinsley

Illustration by Matthew Shipley

You’ve probably heard the unbelievable saga of South Carolina attorney Alex Murdaugh, who was convicted in 2023 for the murders of his wife and son. Recently, the story found its way back into the national spotlight after Alex was granted a retrial. We know what you’re thinking: is the world unraveling, or is this just another reminder that it might be?? To make sense of it all, we spoke with Mark Tinsley— yes, another lawyer, but stay with us, this one’s a good guy. Tinsley represented the family of Mallory Beach, the young woman who died in the tragic boating accident in which Alex’s son, Paul Murdaugh, was allegedly driving under the influence. As the civil case unfolded, Mark pushed for Alex to disclose his financial records. When Alex refused, Mark kept digging. That persistence ultimately helped expose Alex’s scheme of stealing millions of dollars from his own clients.

Just curious—have you started a case called People v. A.I. yet?

No.

What do you think the punishment for A.I. would be?

You’d have to go after the creators.

Most of us, aside from a few rare exceptions, know the difference between right and wrong. Why do you think people choose wrong?

Fear drives people more than anything. But not everybody is afraid.

Do you consider yourself a good ol’ boy?

I’m old. I’m good. And I’m a boy. (Laughs.) But not in the way the term is used when referring to Alex Murdaugh.

When you spent time around Alex, were there any signs that something was off?

Alex wasn’t an authentic person.

And you knew that from the day you met him?

No. But over time, you realize the only person Alex truly cared about was Alex.

Looking back, would you do anything differently?

No... Actually, I take that back...

Find out what Mark’s full reply was and watch our complete interview with him here.

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