After passing the bar in September 1996, she launched her private practice, Sigalas Law Firm, where she practiced law until 2001. During this time, she also served Jackson County Chancery Court as a Special Master and worked as a Guardian Ad Litem, Special Prosecutor, and Special Judge in Jackson County Youth Court. Her dedication to youth and justice led to her appointment as County Court Judge for Jackson County Youth Court in January 2002, a role she held with distinction for two decades until her retirement in May 2022.

During her tenure at Youth Court, she spearheaded several groundbreaking initiatives designed to improve the lives of young people in her community. In 2004, she created the School for Detention at Jackson County Youth Court, ensuring that detained youth continued their education while in the system. Four years later, in 2008, she established the Jackson County Juvenile Drug Court, a program that provided rehabilitation and support for young people struggling with substance abuse.

Sharon’s innovative approach extended beyond the courtroom. She helped launch the Heartbeat Program, which provides critical services and support for foster children aged 0-3, and the Fostering Futures initiative, which offers guidance and resources for foster youth between the ages of 14-20 as they transition into adulthood. Her commitment to youth advocacy also saw her play an active role in the 100-Day Challenge to End Youth Homelessness, working tirelessly to address the root causes of homelessness among the area’s most vulnerable youth.

Perhaps one of her most significant accomplishments was the revitalization of the Jackson County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) Program. Under her leadership, the program grew into the oldest and largest CASA program in Mississippi, providing essential advocacy for children navigating the foster care and legal systems.

In June 2022, after her retirement from the Youth Court, Sharon returned to private practice, where she continues to apply her vast knowledge of the law and passion for justice.

Sharon’s legacy is one of compassion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the youth of Jackson County. Her leadership has not only transformed the lives of the children she has worked with but also reshaped the legal and support systems that serve them. Through her efforts, countless young people have been given the tools and support they need to overcome adversity and build brighter futures.