William R. Thomas

Overview

Wil Thomas focuses his practice on defending businesses and professionals in employment matters, errors/omissions claims, and other complex business disputes. His practice spans employment litigation—discrimination, retaliation, wage-hour class actions—and professional liability defense for architects, engineers, attorneys, and other licensed practitioners.

Licensed in both Colorado and Michigan, Wil has extensive experience defending businesses in disputes across various jurisdictions and forums, including administrative agency proceedings, civil litigation (both state and federal court), and appellate advocacy. His appellate experience includes arguing before the Michigan Supreme Court and Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, which reflects his willingness to take defensible cases through the full litigation process when circumstances warrant.

Beyond litigation, Wil counsels clients on employment policies, compliance issues, and risk management strategies designed to prevent disputes before they can materialize. This advisory experience gives him insight into how businesses actually operate, which informs his litigation strategy when conflicts do arise. Moreover, Wil’s dual-state practice allows him to serve clients with operations in multiple jurisdictions, providing consistency in legal approach while navigating the distinct procedural and substantive requirements of Colorado and Michigan law.

Honors & Publications

Honors

• The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch - Employment and Commercial Litigation (2021-2024)

Publications

• "How Much Time is a Reasonable Time to Heal? The Status and Future of a Medical Leave of Absence as a Reasonable Accommodation in Michigan," Labor and Employment LawNotes, Labor and Employment Law Section - State Bar of Michigan (Vol. 30, No. 1; Spring 2020)

News

Professional

• Member, Colorado Bar Association, 2024 to Present
• Member, State Bar of Michigan, 2013 to Present