He was born near Miami, Manitoba, the son of Andrew Laughlin and Rachel Bell. His parents had come to Manitoba from Ontario in 1877. Laughtlin was educated in Cartwright, at St. John's College and the University of Manitoba. He articled in law, was called to the Manitoba bar in 1905 and practised law in Cartwright. In 1909, he married Harriet Margaret McKay. Laughlin served as reeve for the Rural Municipality of Roblin. He became the solicitor for the Roblin municipality in 1920 and held this position until his death. Laughlin was also solicitor for the Bank of Toronto.