Shawn Thomas: A Distinguished Civil Litigation Attorney and Trial Lawyer in Los Angeles
Civil litigation often demands sharp analytical skills, an unwavering commitment to justice, and the ability to defend clients across the most challenging disputes. Among the lawyers who have earned a strong reputation in this field, Shawn Thomas stands out as a respected name. Known widely as Shawn Thomas, Esq., he has built an exceptional career across major law firms and now operates his own practice in Los Angeles. His journey reflects not only his legal expertise but also his dedication to clients ranging from Fortune 500 corporations to individuals seeking justice in complex disputes.
In this article, we will explore Shawn Thomas, Esq., Los Angeles attorney, his professional background, education, and career path through prestigious firms such as Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, Glaser Weil LLP, and Sanders Roberts LLP, before establishing the Law Office of Shawn P. Thomas.
Early Life and Education
Brooklyn Law School Achievements
The foundation of Shawn Thomas’s career was laid at Brooklyn Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctor (JD) degree in 2008. Graduating magna cum laude, he stood among the top of his class. During his academic journey, he was a Notes and Comments Editor for the Brooklyn Law Review and a member of the Moot Court Honor Society, gaining valuable experience in research, writing, and advocacy. His dedication to academic excellence also secured him a place on the Dean’s List, affirming his capability to excel under rigorous academic standards.
Undergraduate at UC Santa Barbara
Before law school, Shawn Thomas studied Political Science at the University of California, Santa Barbara, graduating in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. His undergraduate years sharpened his analytical skills and built a strong foundation in critical thinking, politics, and communication—skills that would later shape his legal career.
Career Beginnings at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
Building Expertise in New York
Shawn Thomas began his legal career at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, a prestigious international law firm headquartered in New York. As a Senior Associate, he spent nearly eight years (2008–2016) representing clients in complex commercial litigation. His practice focused on industries involving large-scale equipment, including passenger jets, rail cars, water treatment equipment, and automobiles.
At Pillsbury, Thomas handled:
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Employment litigation, including wage-and-hour disputes and restrictive covenant enforcement.
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Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) disputes, focusing on contract breaches and warranty issues.
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Internal investigations, providing corporate clients with compliance support and litigation readiness.
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Federal and state court cases, managing all phases of discovery, drafting substantive motions, and representing clients in mediation and arbitration.
His experience in New York’s fast-paced legal environment allowed him to develop resilience, precision, and courtroom confidence.
Glaser Weil LLP: Advancing Litigation Skills
In 2016, Shawn Thomas transitioned to Glaser Weil LLP, a Century City, California-based law firm known for representing high-profile clients. As an Associate, he was part of the firm’s Litigation practice group, where he broadened his expertise across commercial disputes, employment conflicts, and contract negotiations.
At Glaser Weil, Thomas gained deeper exposure to California’s legal environment, refining his ability to advocate for clients in both state and federal courts. His work involved:
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Preparing trial strategies.
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Managing internal investigations.
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Defending clients through arbitration and mediation.
This phase of his career positioned him as a versatile litigator ready to handle diverse industries and complex disputes.
Sanders Roberts LLP: Partner in Litigation
Becoming a Partner
From 2018 to 2023, Shawn Thomas became a Partner at Sanders Roberts LLP, a respected litigation boutique firm in Los Angeles. This role elevated him to a leadership position where he represented businesses, startups, high net worth individuals, and global corporations.
Areas of Practice
At Sanders Roberts LLP, Thomas specialized in:
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Complex civil litigation
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Employment disputes
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Contract disputes under the UCC
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Product liability defense for manufacturers and sellers of heavy equipment
He worked with industries spanning aviation, automotive, and infrastructure, often defending corporations in disputes involving multimillion-dollar stakes.
Litigation, Mediation, and Arbitration
Thomas also gained significant experience in arbitration and mediation, representing clients before:
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The American Arbitration Association (AAA)
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The International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR)
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The Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS)
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The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
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The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)
His ability to represent clients across these platforms highlighted his versatility and international reach.
Founding the Law Office of Shawn P. Thomas
In August 2023, Shawn Thomas launched his own practice: the Law Office of Shawn P. Thomas in Los Angeles. Operating independently has allowed him to deliver more personalized legal services while drawing on his extensive experience from big law firms.
Practice Philosophy
As a civil litigation attorney and trial lawyer, Thomas provides:
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Tailored strategies to meet client objectives.
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Full dispute lifecycle support, from initial claims through appeals.
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Zealous defense, ensuring fairness and justice for individuals and businesses alike.
Areas of Focus at His Law Office
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Commercial litigation involving contracts and financial disputes.
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Employment law, including wrongful termination, wage disputes, and workplace compliance.
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Arbitration and mediation, offering alternatives to lengthy court trials.
Professional Recognition and Licensure
Dual State Admission
Shawn Thomas is licensed to practice in both New York and California, giving him a broader jurisdiction to represent clients across two of the most influential legal markets in the United States.
Trial and Arbitration Experience
He has served as both first chair and second chair in trials, showcasing his courtroom advocacy. Beyond trials, his reputation extends to arbitration tribunals, where he has successfully represented clients in high-stakes disputes.
Why Shawn Thomas Stands Out
Depth of Experience
From representing global corporations at Pillsbury to guiding startups at Sanders Roberts LLP, Thomas has worked across nearly every sector of civil litigation.
Industry Versatility
Few attorneys can claim experience spanning aviation, automotive, infrastructure, and employment law simultaneously.
Client Dedication
Colleagues and clients recognize Thomas for his meticulous preparation, strategic insight, and commitment to delivering results.
Conclusion
Shawn Thomas, Esq., Los Angeles trial lawyer, embodies the qualities of a skilled civil litigator: experience, versatility, and commitment. With a career beginning at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, advancing at Glaser Weil LLP, and flourishing as a Partner at Sanders Roberts LLP, Thomas now leads his own firm, the Law Office of Shawn P. Thomas.
His journey reflects the hallmark of a dedicated attorney—one who combines courtroom expertise with a deep understanding of client needs. Whether representing individuals, startups, or Fortune 500 corporations, Shawn Thomas continues to shape his reputation as a trusted advocate in Los Angeles and beyond.
