About Sharon
Sharon Thompson is an attorney with over 40 years of experience in family law, estate planning, and LGBT legal issues. Since 2012, she has served as Of Counsel at NicholsonPham, PLLC, located in Durham, North Carolina. Admitted to the North Carolina State Bar in 1976, Ms. Thompson has built a distinguished career marked by significant contributions to the legal profession and advocacy for marginalized communities. From 1987 to 1990, she was a two-term legislator in the North Carolina House of Representatives. During her tenure, she was recognized as the highest-ranked female member and earned the title of the 16th Most Effective Representative in her second term.
This experience in the legislature allowed her to influence important legislation, particularly in areas affecting women and the LGBT community. In 1978, she co-founded the North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys, where she served as its first president, advocating for the rights and recognition of women in the legal field. In 1994, Ms. Thompson took another significant step in her advocacy work by co-founding the North Carolina Association of Gay and Lesbian Attorneys, also serving as its first president. This organization aimed to provide support and resources for LGBT attorneys and clients, addressing the challenges they face in the legal system. Her leadership in these organizations has made a lasting impact, fostering a more inclusive legal community in North Carolina.
Recognized for her contributions to the legal profession, Ms. Thompson received the North Carolina Bar Association’s Citizen Lawyer Award in 2013. The following year, she was honored with the John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award, reflecting her commitment to public service and excellence in law. At NicholsonPham, she focuses on family law, including adoption and family formation through assisted reproduction and surrogacy, as well as estate planning and LGBT legal issues. Her expertise in these areas has made her a sought-after authority on legal matters affecting gay and lesbian clients, and she has served as counsel in numerous groundbreaking cases.
In addition to her practice, Ms. Thompson has also contributed to legal education as an Adjunct Professor at both the University of North Carolina School of Law and the North Carolina Central University School of Law. She has authored numerous publications and is frequently invited to speak at legal seminars, law schools, and community events. Her dedication to education and advocacy continues to inspire both her students and her peers, solidifying her legacy in the legal community.