Thomas Mercado is an associate attorney with the law firm Holder, Padgett, Littlejohn + Prickett, LLC, working in the firm’s Greenville, South Carolina office. He is a member of HPLP’s construction, business, and real estate litigation practice group. His practice focuses on commercial litigation, dispute resolution, and advising clients on business and real estate matters. Thomas has experience drafting and negotiating business contracts and commercial leases, guiding litigation matters to successful resolution through settlement and mediation, and counseling clients on litigation strategy, investment decisions, and risk management.

Raised in Greer, South Carolina, Thomas brings a practical, solutions-oriented approach to his practice. He is passionate about ensuring equity under the law for all people and is particularly committed to protecting the rights and dignity of vulnerable and marginalized individuals. Known for his meticulous writing and strategic thinking, Thomas focuses on developing actionable and creative solutions that help clients efficiently resolve disputes and achieve their objectives.

Prior to joining HPLP, Thomas practiced at a litigation-focused firm in Mobile, Alabama, where he handled personal injury defense and insurance coverage matters. He later served as in-house general counsel for a family office in Greenville, South Carolina, advising family leadership on investment strategy and risk management, overseeing a portfolio of commercial properties, and negotiating and drafting numerous commercial leases. While attending law school, Thomas clerked in the Office of Counsel to the Commandant of the Marine Corps at the Pentagon.

Outside of his legal practice, Thomas enjoys spending time with his two daughters, traveling, attending live music events, and exploring history. His travel highlights include attending the Oasis reunion tour, and he has seen Dave Matthews Band perform dozens of times. He is also an avid Clemson sports fan, enjoys bar trivia, and spends time with his two cocker spaniels, Maverick and Goose. His sister is an elementary school teacher at a Title I school, his mother served on city council, and his father was a Marine Corps officer and later worked at The Citadel.