Sharon McLaughlin is a former practicing attorney who transitioned from practicing law to a highly specialized area of attorney recruitment. With two decades of experience in attorney search and placement, Sharon has built a reputation for helping high-caliber attorneys and law firms make key lateral moves across the U.S., as well as assisting companies in expanding or enhancing their in-house legal teams.
Her expertise spans a wide range of legal markets, from top-tier AmLaw 200 and Magic Circle firms to diverse corporate in-house departments. She is known for her targeted, hands-on approach to select search engagements, often working on significant lateral partner and group moves, law firm openings, and high-level in-house placements, including roles such as General Counsel and Senior Counsel.
Before founding SMC Legal Search, Sharon was a partner at a premier retained search firm, specializing in placements with AmLaw 50 firms and overseeing strategic hiring for new office openings. Her previous roles also included managing and training legal recruitment teams in cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in the field.
In addition to her recruiting expertise, Sharon brings a wealth of legal practice experience to her work, having previously practiced employment-based immigration law in Houston and San Diego. Her dual background as an attorney and legal recruiter allows her to provide a nuanced, in-depth perspective to both her clients and candidates.
Sharon's educational background includes a B.A. from Stephen F. Austin State University and a J.D. from Southwestern University School of Law, and she is licensed to practice law in both Texas and California.
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