Makayla Thomas is dedicated to navigating the complexities of high-stakes product liability, toxic tort, asbestos, and commercial litigation matters. With a sharp focus on plaintiff-complex litigation, she brings extensive experience and insight to her practice. Makayla is also a certified mediator.
Prior to joining the firm, Makayla honed her skills in senior litigation paralegal roles, focusing her practice on catastrophic injuries. Her involvement in heavy litigation work, including support on multiple trials, has equipped her with a deep understanding of plaintiff strategy, enabling her to navigate legal matters efficiently.
Additionally, Makayla was previously a law clerk handling plaintiff mass torts matters. She further honed her skills while serving as a judicial extern for Chief Federal Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., of the Rhode Island District Court, as a judicial intern at the Rhode Island Workers’ Compensation Court, and through internships with nonprofit organizations, including the Rhode Island Association for Justice. Makayla also gained valuable insights as a summer and law clerk for a national class action and complex litigation firm. Her previous roles have all contributed to her comprehensive understanding of complex litigation.
Makayla earned her J.D. from Roger Williams University School of Law, where she showcased leadership qualities as the president of Students for Civil Justice (SCJ). One of her notable achievements was establishing a mentorship program that connected students in SCJ with attorneys affiliated with the Rhode Island Association for Justice. This initiative facilitated knowledge-sharing events featuring guest speakers involved in prominent cases. Makayla’s active involvement also extended to the Rhode Island Women’s Bar Association (RIWBA), where she contributed to various committees aimed at fostering connections between students and the broader community.
Moreover, Makayla’s dedication to her legal studies and community service has been recognized with several awards. During her time at law school, she was honored with the Pro Bono Award for completing over 100 hours of service. Her exceptional skills in Interviewing and Counseling were also acknowledged with the CALI Award, further emphasizing her commitment to excellence in her legal education.
Makayla holds a B.S. from Suffolk University. While attending college, she participated in D1 rowing and received a scholarship.
Makayla is not only dedicated to her legal practice but also to enriching her community through education and mentorship initiatives. She cherishes her time in New York with her two dogs and enjoys traveling, exploring, working out and spending time with loved ones.
Professional & Civic Involvement
- New York State Bar Association
- New York Women’s Bar Association
- Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York
Languages
- Spanish – conversational
Publications
Speaking Engagements
- “Justice for All: Demanding Accessibility for Underrepresented Communities in the Law,” Roger Williams University Law Review Symposium, 2022
Publications
- “Forced Disclosures: The Reality Transgender People Face in Entering the Legal Field,” co-author, Roger Williams University Law Review, Spring 2023