PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Sarah O. Leonard is an associate attorney with Hutchens Law Firm and has been practicing in the area of foreclosure since 2011. She had a unique path to a career in law. While at Clemson University, Sarah earned her Bachelors in English, and she served as President of the Sigma Tau Delta English Club. Enjoying language as a discipline, she ventured to Spain for a study abroad program where she also earned credits for her minor in Spanish. Upon return, she volunteered with the local Spanish community to help kids with their homework. Soon, she discovered what she liked best was language itself, and when she took a class in Logic, that sparked her interest in the language of Law. With a fondness for solving problems plus having shadowed her uncle who practiced Mediation in Charlotte, she put two and two together in her sophomore year of college and decided she would pursue a law degree after graduating.

In the discipline of foreclosure, she says, “While I represent the lender, it’s so important to communicate well with all parties involved. Showing the borrowers the respect, sincerity, and understanding makes the process easier on everyone. And when they thank me afterward for thoroughly explaining the process, I know I’ve done the best I can.”

In her personal time, Sarah volunteers with her local Junior League, the PTO at daycare, and performs service projects for homeless shelters, children, and underprivileged schools. She’s married and has a 2-year-old. She met her husband, Chris, in law school. He is a criminal defense attorney. They enjoy traveling and experience different cultures. Her return trip to Spain where she introduced her husband to her Host family was a highlight of their travels.

Sarah is in our Columbia, SC location and has been with the firm since 2016.

EDUCATION:

Juris Doctor degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law (2010)

Undergraduate degree from Clemson University (2007) | magna cum laude

ADMISSIONS:

South Carolina Bar (2010)

MEMBERSHIPS AND AFFILIATIONS:

American Bar Association

South Carolina Bar Association

Richland County Bar Association

The Junior League of Columbia