Erika O'Donnell

When I was a child, my dad suffered a serious injury in a construction accident. I remember our family looking for help but struggling to find a passionate attorney willing to fight hard to get him the compensation he deserved. Seeing my parents face the challenges associated with my dad’s injuries and in finding a compassionate attorney to help us, I knew I never wanted to see that happen to another family again. That’s when I decided what I would do with my life: become an attorney, so no family would ever have to feel like ours did when my dad was hurt.

As of December 2022, I’m proud to serve my community as Plaintiffs’ Liaison Counsel for the Massachusetts Asbestos Litigation docket. This role encompasses many facets of legal proceedings, but ultimately, I ensure that cases get to trial and victims are able to pursue their claims. I am proud to be the first woman to hold this title and actively pursue ways to make the docket and our profession more equitable.

I’ve been part of the Shepard Law team since 2005 and have had the opportunity to zealously represent many families and make sure that someone is fighting hard for them. I take great pride in the relationships I have developed with my clients and their families. It is important for me to get to know my clients as individuals, so I can better advocate for them in their legal cases. Having grown up in Worcester, MA, and as a current resident of Dedham, MA I understand our Massachusetts’ clients needs. Every client is unique, and every family has different dynamics and needs that I try to address in order to make the process a little easier for everyone involved.