Attorney Elizabeth Ligon

Before joining the firm in 2023, Elizabeth practiced workers’ compensation law for over a decade as a defense attorney. She now directs her impressive skills, including strategy, litigation, and client communication, towards helping injured workers navigate the workers’ compensation process. And she loves it – because this work matters.

North Carolina Born and Raised

Elizabeth grew up in Charlotte, the younger of two girls. From an early age, she exhibited an all-in attitude and gave 100% to her activities. Never one to hold back and apply the brakes, whether rollerskating or learning  to drive(!), she usually headed full speed towards wherever the action was.

And for college, the action was in Chapel Hill at the University of North Carolina. As an undergrad, she explored the legal profession as a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, fostered strong friendships as a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, and gave back to the community as a volunteer for Youth for Elderly Services.

Sensing that the legal field was one where she could make a difference, she attended UNC School of Law after graduation and quickly became an active and engaged participant in the law school community. She was selected to the Holderness Moot Court Negotiation Team and further developed her trial advocacy skills as a member of the Broun National Trial Team.

In addition, Elizabeth acted as Deputy Chair of the Graduate Honor Court, Communications Chair of the Education Law and Policy Society, and was a member of the Faculty Selection and Curriculum Review Committees.

The “Other Side” of Workers’ Compensation

Elizabeth was hired as an associate by the law firm with whom she interned during law school to join their workers’ compensation defense practice. She loved the variety and pace of workers’ comp and was energized by the work whether in mediations, court hearings, or client meetings. She advanced from associate to partner within seven years, helping clients try to limit their potential exposure to workers’ comp claims, but she wondered if she was meant to do more to help people.

One case in particular stands out for Elizabeth. She remembers a client denying the claim of a worker who was seriously injured in a car accident because there was uncertainty about whether the employee was still in the course and scope of his work when the accident occurred.

Her client ended up settling with the injured employee when it was finally determined that he was doing work for his employer when the accident occurred – but this was after a considerable delay. Though she had fulfilled her obligation to her client, Elizabeth still felt badly about the amount of time the worker and his family went without deserved and needed compensation.

Fighting for Injured Workers

Now, at the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin, Elizabeth dedicates her time and attention to protecting injured workers’ rights. She understands what motivates employers and insurance companies in the workers’ comp process, and she uses this knowledge and experience when negotiating and litigating for her clients. She is laser-focused on helping injured workers seek the best possible outcome for their workers’ comp cases.

“Elizabeth spent over 10 years litigating complex workers’ compensation disputes on behalf of employers and insurance carriers. This experience gives her great perspective into the ‘other side’ of a workers’ compensation case and makes her a formidable advocate for the rights of injured workers.” – Ryan Bliss, Workers’ Compensation Department Head at the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin

“Full Steam Ahead” at Home

Elizabeth has worked in the Research Triangle ever since her days as a Tar Heel undergrad and law student. She and her son, Brant, live in nearby Wake Forest, and consider themselves lucky to have her supportive parents living close by.

Elizabeth is reminded of her own childhood as she watches her active toddler – always running full steam ahead. She claims he only slows down for story-time, a tendency her schoolteacher mother may recognize from Elizabeth’s own childhood as well.

At work and at home, Elizabeth has always felt a duty to serve others, whether it’s completing 100+ hours pro bono legal service during law school or engaging with others through her church, The Summit. She has a special place in her heart for Lifesong for Orphans, whose mission is to bring joy and purpose to orphans. She is also a supporter of the SPCA and proud owner of a rescue dog.