Jackson Lewis P.C. announces Michael D. Thomas has joined the firm’s Los Angeles office as a Principal. Mr. Thomas joins the firm from Ogletree Deakins, where he focused his practice on employment law, class action and PAGA litigation.
“Michael is a talented litigator, and his experience with high-profile class action matters will be invaluable to the firm,” said Class Actions and Complex Litigation Practice Group Co-Leaders Stephanie L. Adler-Paindiris, David R. Golder and Eric R. Magnus in a joint statement. “His addition is part of our ongoing commitment to providing clients with first-rate litigators who are able to take on the most difficult and complex matters. We are very excited that he made the decision to join us.”
Mr. Thomas has more than 17 years of experience litigating state and federal class, collective, and representative actions brought against employers in a wide variety of industries, including manufacturing, retail, restaurant, hospitality, transportation, janitorial services, staffing, security services, agriculture, and the gig economy. Mr. Thomas represents employers in both class action lawsuits and single-plaintiff litigation. He has a notable record of success obtaining pre-trial dismissals, successful settlements, and defense verdicts.
Mr. Thomas also conducts customized in-house seminars and training for managers, supervisors, and employees concerning employment compliance. He assists employers with the full spectrum of workplace diversity and inclusion related issues. Mr. Thomas obtained a Diversity and Inclusion Certification from Cornell University. His approach to diversity and inclusion includes best practices, neuroscience, adult learning, experiential learning, dialogue, body awareness and mindfulness.
“Michael has spent the bulk of his career focused on class actions and PAGA litigation, and we are thrilled to welcome someone of his caliber to the office,” said Los Angeles Office Managing Principal Tyler A. Brown. “He is a highly regarded litigator with strong connections in the Bay Area business community and throughout Southern California. We are pleased to add him to our roster.”
Mr. Thomas earned his J.D. from Boston College Law School, his M.B.A. from the University of California, Berkeley and his B.A. from Bucknell University.
Jackson Lewis’ Los Angeles office can be reached at (213) 689-0404.