Lauren Bradshaw - Sacramento, CA

Lauren Bradshaw joined the Duggan McHugh team in February 2026 as an Associate Attorney. She is a dynamic and dedicated attorney whose career spans criminal defense, complex civil litigation, and advocacy for vulnerable communities. She earned her Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law, concentrating in Criminal Litigation and taking on multiple leadership roles, including President of the La Raza Law Students Association and Co-President of the Immigration Justice Law Society. She also volunteered extensively at a homeless legal aid clinic. Lauren graduated cum laude from Pepperdine University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.

Before transitioning to civil practice, Lauren built a strong foundation in criminal defense. As a Deputy Public Defender II in Solano County, she managed a misdemeanor caseload of more than 250 clients and secured favorable outcomes, including an acquittal and a complete dismissal. She previously served as a Deputy Public Defender for Orange County, representing over 100 clients and completing eight jury trials, achieving multiple acquittals and hung jury verdicts.

Lauren has also previously defended public entities, including school districts and county child welfare agencies, in high-exposure sexual abuse and employment litigation in both state and federal courts. In this role, she gained comprehensive experience across all stages of civil litigation, from drafting pleadings and motions to conducting and defending depositions, preparing mediation and arbitration briefs, and managing complex client communications.

More recently, Lauren has handled employment litigation matters from the pre-litigation stage through trial preparation. Her work included investigating claims, drafting position statements, developing litigation strategies, and preparing cases for trial. She also completed significant motion work on behalf of nonprofit organizations, broadening her experience with mission-driven clients and organizational defendants.

Across every role, Lauren brings rigorous legal analysis, clear communication, and a steady, client-focused approach. Her diverse background spanning public defense, civil litigation, and employment law equips her with a balanced, strategic perspective and a commitment to achieving meaningful results for every client.

Outside of her professional life, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family and exercising her two huskies.