Laurie R. Williams graduated from Mississippi State University after serving as the first woman ever elected Student Association President in the University’s 100 year history. She graduated from the University of Mississippi School of law in 1985 and was bar certified in that same year. Laurie began her insurance defense practice with Montgomery, Smith-Vaniz, McGraw and Collins and subsequently entered a toxic tort practice defending Eagle Picher and National Rubber Manufacturers. In 1990, Laurie was recruited to design and manage the first captive staff counsel office for USF&G. In 2000, Laurie was asked to join St. Paul Insurance Company as regional group counsel managing major litigation in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. After merging with Travelers Insurance Company, Laurie was promoted to 2nd Vice President and Senior Counsel, serving as General Counsel for the states of Mississippi and Louisiana. In addition, she continued to manage major litigation for the South Central United States.
During her litigation career, Laurie has defended countless claims and conducted numerous trials with a significant win record. Her business acumen has been recognized locally when she was awarded one of the Top Fifty Business Women of Mississippi in 2007 by the Mississippi Business Journal and named as The Dynamic Women of Mississippi by the National Chamber of Commerce in 2008.
Education:
B.A. Mississippi State University
J.D., University of Mississippi
Courts/Bar Admissions:
Mississippi State Courts
United States District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of Mississippi
United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
Professional Memberships & Activities:
Mississippi Bar Association
American Bar Association
Mississippi Defense Lawyers Association
Madison County Bar Association
