Meet La’Porscha Smalls

We had the good fortune of connecting with La’Porscha Smalls and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi La’Porscha, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk is most necessary to reach levels that are higher than just “successful.” Since taking the risk of opening my own law firm this past April, I’ve not only seen more income, but I am a lot happier. I have spent the past almost 15 years studying, working, and learning about my craft as a lawyer. Given the work and du diligence that I have put in during those years, hard work is second nature to me now. Having that and putting that energy into my own business gives me one of the things that most people desire: the space to work and it not feel like work. Risk gives you peace.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m a proud native of Walterboro, South Carolina—a small town where there was only one high school, but a whole lot of heart. I was blessed to grow up in a two-parent household surrounded by a big, loving family that taught me the value of faith, community, and perseverance. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a lawyer. That dream began with watching The Cosby Show and being captivated by Phylicia Rashad’s portrayal of Claire Huxtable. She was everything I aspired to be: a brilliant attorney, a graceful woman, a nurturing mother, and a devoted wife. I remember watching her and thinking, “I want to be that.” That inspiration carried me through my academic journey—first to USC Upstate, where I graduated from the Honors Program, and then on to Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School.

Throughout my career, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had teachers and professors who saw my potential even when I couldn’t always see it myself. They encouraged me, challenged me, and shaped me into the attorney I am today. Many of them continue to cheer me on from afar. After gaining valuable experience as a felony prosecutor and later as an Insurance Defense Attorney, I made the bold decision to open my own law firm. Today, I focus on criminal defense and plaintiff’s auto accident cases. What sets my firm apart is the unique advantage I bring to the table: I’ve stood on the other side. I know how the prosecution thinks. I understand how insurance companies evaluate and fight claims. That means my clients have someone in their corner who’s not only passionate and prepared—but who knows the game from every angle.

Although I have gained some success, that does not mean adversity is unknown to me. As a Black woman in a male-dominated field, I’ve faced challenges that go beyond the courtroom. I’ve been labeled “aggressive” for showing confidence, called out of my name, and far too often mistaken for the secretary instead of the attorney. These moments sting, but they don’t stop me. Every day, I make the conscious decision to define myself—on my own terms. I reject the stereotypes and rewrite the narrative. I carry myself with intention, grace, and power, just like the woman who first inspired me, Claire Huxtable. I may not moderate a fictional courtroom, but I am the moderator of my own life and legacy—and I will be a blueprint and a beacon for the women who come after me.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Two of my absolute favorite spots in Atlanta are Roc Steady and Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen—each offering a different but deeply meaningful connection to my roots. Roc Steady has the best Caribbean vibes in the city, hands down. From the food to the music, it’s a full cultural experience. It’s the kind of place where you can let loose, dance freely, and feel completely at home in your heritage—it truly gives you permission to show up fully in your culture. On the other hand, Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen speaks straight to my South Carolina soul. As a proud native, there’s nothing like seeing my home flavors brought to life in Atlanta. Every dish on the menu reminds me of family, tradition, and love. Being able to indulge in Gullah cuisine whenever I want is more than comfort—it’s a celebration of where I come from.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I have to give a heartfelt shout out to God—my unfailing source of strength, clarity, and protection. He has never let me down, and I’m constantly reminded that He is the ultimate champion in my corner. I also want to thank my partner, Shakiel Banx, who has been my rock through every high and low of launching my own law firm. Shakiel has shown up as my biggest fan, the photographer behind the scenes, my honest critic, and the co-architect helping me shape this platform and the legacy I’m building. A special nod goes to the book Sis, Don’t Settle by Judge Faith Jenkins, which has been a powerful guide for me—not only in love but in personal empowerment. Her words stirred something in me that reminded me of the brilliance I already carried within, waiting to be fully unleashed.

Website: https://www.LaPLawGroup.com

Instagram: Lap_lawgroup

Linkedin: La’Porscha Smalls, Esq.

Facebook: L.A.P Law Group

Youtube: MyHomegirlsALawyer

Other: TikTok: LAPLAWGROUP

Image Credits
Photos by Shakiel Banx