Pennsylvania Association for Justice Names David M. Thomas, Esq. As Legislative Counsel

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 19, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Association for Justice (PAJ), the largest trial lawyer association in Pennsylvania, is pleased to announce that David M. Thomas, Esq. will join PAJ as its Harrisburg-based Legislative Counsel, effective March 5.

In this position he will work with state legislators and the administration to protect and preserve the civil justice system for the thousands of Pennsylvanians who PAJ's 2,300 members represent every year. Thomas comes to this role after a highly successful tenure as Chief Counsel to the Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Sam Smith (R-Jefferson/Indiana/Armstrong counties).

"Dave's sterling reputation for working both sides of the aisle in Harrisburg makes him a great fit with our organization," said PAJ President Jerry M. Lehocky, Esq. of Philadelphia. "PAJ has a long tradition of bipartisan support in the capitol. I am confident that Dave will continue and strengthen this tradition."

Prior to working for Speaker Sam Smith, Thomas worked in various positions on the House Appropriations, Liquor Control, and Judiciary committees. He is a Cum Laude graduate of the Widener University School of Law, Harrisburg. He practiced law in Hummelstown from 2002 to 2008 with a focus on real estate, personal injury and criminal law.

"Throughout Dave's career with the House Republican Caucus, he has demonstrated a unique ability to work with members in both chambers and all four caucuses to help achieve the objectives and goals of the caucus.  He has earned the reputation as one of the hardest working staffers on the hill and I know that he will be a great asset to the PAJ." said Smith.

Thomas spent much of the last three years of his career as lead staff negotiator for the House Republican Caucus on the state budget and many of the major legislative enactments, such as the recent transportation funding bill.  In fulfilling his legislative duties Thomas worked closely with the Governor's office; members and senior staff in the House and Senate; local and federal government officials and various outside interest groups.

"Dave Thomas has earned an outstanding reputation for stellar legislative acumen," said Senate President Pro Tempore, Joe Scarnati (R - Jefferson).  "The House of Representatives' loss is PAJ's gain. I look forward to working with him in his new capacity."

"My years working in the House of Representatives demonstrate a strong potential to use the legislative process to achieve sound public policy that will both preserve and foster a fair civil justice system.  And my private practice experience brought me into close contact with many Pennsylvanians who faced great personal difficulty and needed strong legal representation," said Thomas. "I look forward to working for PAJ to ensure Pennsylvania's justice system continues to treat Pennsylvanians fairly."

With offices in Philadelphia and Harrisburg, PAJ promotes a fair and effective justice system in Pennsylvania even when taking on the most powerful interests.

Contact: Robert Bershad, 215.561.6451 x 101, [email protected]

SOURCE Pennsylvania Association for Justice