Shannon N. Proctor is a partner at Hollingsworth LLP, where she represents Fortune 500 companies across the country in high-stakes pharmaceutical products liability litigation. She has guided clients through every stage of the litigation process—from developing expert witnesses, taking and defending depositions, drafting complex motions, and presenting arguments in court.

Before she ever stepped into a courtroom, Shannon spent more than a decade immersed in the pharmaceutical industry. Earning a chemistry degree and hands-on industry experience, she witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of medical innovation—and the complex challenges it creates. Her unique foundation sparked her transition to law, where she could merge her love of science with her drive to advocate for clients in the most challenging disputes.

Shannon’s current work extends beyond pharmaceuticals. Her practice also includes business interruption and commercial disputes, toxic torts, and amicus advocacy, making her a versatile and trusted litigator in complex matters. Shannon has been repeatedly recognized by Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch (2024–2026), Super Lawyers: Rising Stars (2023–2025), and Lawyers of Color “Hot List” (2022). She also has spoken at national conferences on current and trending topics ranging from expert testimony under Federal Rule of Evidence 702 to creative strategies for class action defense. Her published works include articles in Bloomberg and the American Bar Association’s Landslide® Magazine.

Shannon’s commitment does not stop at serving her clients. She is an engaged member of the Jacksonville University Black Alumni Network and the Emory DC Network Board. She also has a varied and active pro bono practice, including prior work with Legal Aid and AmeriCorps, and current work with the DC Bar Pro Bono Center’s Advice & Referral Clinic and the Firm’s Legal Aid Committee. She firmly believes that access to justice should never be reserved for a few. Whether mentoring young lawyers, volunteering locally, or championing her clients in the courtroom, Shannon brings the same dedication and authenticity to every role she handles.

Education

Emory University School of Law (J.D., 2015) Jacksonville University (B.S., 2008)

Clerkships

U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, The Honorable Deborah A. Robinson

U.S. Court of Federal Claims, Office of Special Masters, The Honorable Christian J. Moran

Admissions

  • District of Columbia
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • United States Supreme Court
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth and Ninth Circuits
  • United States District Courts for the District of Columbia, and District of Nebraska
  • United States Court of Federal Claims

Accolades

  • Best Lawyers in America Ones to Watch, Product Liability Litigation – Defendants, 2024-2026
  • Best Lawyers in America Ones to Watch, Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants, 2026
  • Super Lawyers Rising Star, Personal Injury Products Defense, 2023-2025
  • Lawyers of Color Hot List, 2022

Memberships

  • American Bar Association, Fellow
  • Defense Research Institute
  • District of Columbia Court of Appeals Pro Bono Mediation Panel, Member
  • The Legal Mentor Network, Mentor
  • Washington Bar Association

Insights & Events

Firm associate Shannon Proctor led a group of Emory University alumni in Arlington, VA for the annual Emory Cares International Service Day 2022 in November.  The group collaborated with the Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) for the 28th annual “Scouting for Food”…
Ms. Proctor spoke on Creative Approaches to Resolving Consumer Class Action Litigation. The panel discussed creative approaches to resolving class action cases, from conduct relief, individual carve-out settlements, and non-class approaches. This panel also addressed the implications…

Cases