Laurie was born and raised in Comanche County and attended Tarleton State University where she recieved an undergraduate degree in Social Work.  After graduating from Tarleton Laurie worked as a social worker for Adult Protective Services investigating abuse and neglect of elderly and disabled adults. 

In 2000 Laurie graduated from St. Mary's University School of Law and went to work as a prosecutor handling misdemeanor and CPS cases.  Laurie later took a position prosecuting child abuse cases.   As a prosecutor, Laurie worked closely with law enforcement throughout their criminal investigations ensuring that search warrants, arrest warrants, physical evidence and witness statements were all obtained correctly.  Laurie's investigation experience led her to accept the position of Director of Investigations for Child Protective Services where she oversaw CPS investigation policy and practice.  Laurie has served on numerous statewide committees and groups involved in investigation of child abuse and child death and has presented investigation training to law enforcement, CPS and prosecutors throughout the state of Texas.   

Her experience as a prosecutor and CPS Director of Investigations has provided Laurie with an understanding of criminal investigation methods and the common mistakes made by law enforcement and CPS.  Laurie appreciates the fact that a bad investigation may result in an innocent person being found guilty or losing their rights to their children and works to ensure that each client receives the best defense possible.