Washington and Lee University School of Law, J.D., 2021
University of Virginia, B.A., Public Policy & Leadership; Government (double major), High Honors, 2018
University of Oxford, Coursework: International Economics & Commerce, Policy & Law, 2016
Joanna Thomas joined the firm in 2021 as a Litigation Associate. Joanna’s practice focuses on eminent domain and commercial litigation. In eminent domain matters, Joanna represents property owners and businesses with just compensation, relocation, and lost profits claims. She assists eminent domain clients from the beginning of the condemnation process through negotiations and trial. Her other litigation experience includes commercial landlord tenant, contract, title, and easement disputes in both federal and state courts.
Prior to joining the firm, Joanna interned for the Virginia Office of the Attorney General and the Honorable George D. Varoutsos, former Chief Judge of the Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
Academic Achievements
Moot Court:
Executive Board 2020-21 (Robert J. Grey, Jr. Negotiations Competition Chair)
Robert J. Grey, Jr. Negotiations Competition (Semi-finalist), John W. Davis Moot Court Competition (Best Brief Semifinalist, Oral Advocacy Quarter-finalist), Client Counseling Competition (Finalist)
American Bar Association Client Counseling Competition (Nominated by the Moot Court Executive Board to represent W&L Law in the Client Counseling External Competition competing against law schools across the region)
Kirgis Fellows: Head Kirgis Fellow 2020-21 (Selected to lead 1L mentorship program by Dean of Law Student Affairs);
Kirgis Fellow 2019-20 (Mentored and advised group of 20 1L students)
Research:
Research Assistant (Chosen to assist Professor Nora Demleitner, criminal law and health care law specialist, and
Librarian Franklin Runge, head of law library user services)
Activities:
Women’s Law Student Association, Powell Lecture Series Board, Pro Bono Club, Flag Football League
Professional Memberships
Fairfax County Bar Association, Young Lawyers Section Board of Directors (2022 to Present)
Virginia Bar Association
American Bar Association, Forum on Construction Law and Public Contracts
Prince William County Bar Association
Northern Virginia Building Industry Association, Woman in the Building Industry
Trial Advocacy
42nd Annual National Trial Advocacy College, University of Virginia School of Law (2024)
Community Involvement
Sixth Grade Sunday School Teacher, Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Washington, D.C.
