Laura Thompson

Laura Thompson joined Melone Hatley, P.C. in 2025 as a Litigation Attorney in the Richmond, Virginia office. Raised in Blacksburg, Virginia, Laura graduated cum laude from Mary Baldwin University in 2011 with a degree in Political Science and minors in Peacemaking Conflict Resolution. She earned her Juris Doctor from Washington and Lee University School of Law in 2018.

During law school, Laura focused on child custody, divorce, and domestic violence cases through various internships and coursework. Laura is passionate about family law and enjoys advocating for clients’ needs. She served as a Legal Extern at the Augusta County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, where she represented vulnerable individuals in sensitive family-related matters and honed her courtroom skills through multiple bench trials.

In addition to her legal experience, Laura has several years of experience in the healthcare industry and working with individuals with disabilities. Her commitment to community service is evident in her leadership roles, including serving as Vice-Chair of the James River Soil and Water Conservation District, where she led initiatives supporting at-risk families. Laura has also served on the Virginia Board for Hearing Aid Specialists and Opticians, was an elected member of the Staunton City Schools Board, and previously chaired a Social Services Advisory Board.

In her free time, Laura enjoys spending time with her family, including her young daughter and pet rabbits. She is passionate about community outreach and expresses her creativity through studio art, singing, musical theater, poetry, and outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.