Attorney Spotlight: Erica L. Laughlin

How long have you been practicing, and what is your practice?

20 years. I am a civil and commercial litigation attorney.

What motivates you to work hard?

I am committed to ensuring my clients receive the highest legal representation and knowing that my work makes a difference in their lives and businesses.

What were your previous employment roles and responsibilities?

I’m an SMGG lifer! I’ve been an attorney with SMGG since the week after I took the bar exam and recently celebrated my 20th anniversary with the firm. Before that, I worked for a professional cheerleading company called UCA, teaching high school and collegiate-level cheerleading camps in the Northeast. My friends and colleagues will tell you I’m still full of energy!

What’s one thing — either industry-related or not — that you learned this year?

How critically important it is to be well organized, professional, and well prepared. While these traits are not things I learned this year, I witnessed firsthand how detrimental a disorganized, sloppy, or ill-prepared lawyer can be to their client’s case. It really impressed upon me the value of mentoring younger attorneys that you’re not prepared unless you are overprepared.

Name three #hashtags that best describe your personality.

#compassionate; #dedicated; #driven

What has been the most important career advice you have been given so far?

There are no dumb questions so long as you do everything you can to find the answer before you ask it.

What do you like to do outside of the office?

I’m an avid runner and have completed numerous half-marathons; I’m a proud “dance mom” of two beautiful, talented little girls; I love to travel; I treasure the time spent with family and friends; and I have a bit of a side hustle planning parties and events.

What is one thing on your bucket list you can’t wait to do?

Hike Kilimanjaro!

Are you a dog or cat person?

Anything that my husband will take care of!

What is your favorite movie?

The Holiday — a great romantic comedy with an undertone of women finding their voice and demanding something better for themselves!

Name one fun fact about you that would surprise others.

I rode on a float with the World Series-winning Yankees in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be?

I’d spend one more day with my best friend, Danielle. We lost her a few years ago, and it changed me forever. Treasure every moment you have with your loved ones. Depression is a silent assassin. We need to continue to shine a light on destigmatizing mental health concerns and emphasizing wellbeing.

What is one food you can’t resist?

There’s ALWAYS room for dessert.

What is your favorite ice cream flavor?

Depends on my mood. Chocolate brownie, chocolate peanut butter, or a nice French vanilla.

Where is your favorite place you have visited?

Alaska

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