Sharika Robinson, NCAJ NEXT Leadership Program

Sharika Robinson is one of the 11 members of the NCAJ NEXT Leadership Program class of 2025. The program identifies the state’s emerging trial lawyer leaders. 

Lives in: Charlotte

Law degree from: North Carolina Central School of Law

Works as: Owner, Managing Partner The Law Offices of Sharika M. Robinson, PLLC

Legal Organization Participation: I am currently the membership co-chair of the Employment Law Section of the NCAJ. I am also on the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee and Law and Society Committee at the Mecklenburg County Bar Association. I am also part of the Federal Bar Association (FBA). In each role, my objective is to further develop a bridge between the organization, members of the organization, and the people and clients who we serve. In the past, I was involved in the FBA and developed and implemented programs for young lawyers, as well as inspiring lawyers, drafted articles, and engaged members.

Why is the idea of justice important to you?

Justice is a key aspect of what it means to be American and is important to me because it has always established a path forward and the lack thereof has been a hindrance to a person’s, culture’s, society’s growth and development. For example, it does not escape me that at one point, I would have been property; I would not have been able to vote, etc. It is the sense of justice that allows me to practice law and be in a position to advocate for justice’s continued development. In other words, it is the sense of justice that allows me to shape and improve matters for the betterment of others and pay matters forward.

What’s your vision for the future of NCAJ?

In North Carolina, NCAJ has many programs to help attorneys mentor each other and learn the intricacies of different practices of law — state and federal. I see NCAJ building upon its past and being a top contributor to plaintiffs’ litigation nationwide in the next five to 10 years. As an example, recently, Law360 drafted an article about two “small firm lawyers” receiving the “largest . . . award” in North Carolina’s history as it relates to a drunk-driving verdict. The award was $40 million. The single sentence showcased that small firms are immensely effective and persuasive, as well as can carry matters to jury. This is only a scintilla of the talent that North Carolina has and what the leadership at NCAJ can cultivate, ultimately influence beyond the bounds of the State.

Through my participation in NCAJ’s NEXT Leadership Program, I hope to … become a better advocate, armed with the resources, network and team to help me identify and develop my strengths and weaknesses, all to best serve my clients.

Away from work … I am a mother of five, and so I am afraid my interests are linked to whatever they like — cooking, sports, fashion, etc. I enjoy comedy, reading, shows, traveling and quiet time. There is an Urban Art Orchestra that I am looking forward to attending this year.