Jacqueline M. Thomas

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Partner,
Lacy Katzen LLP

Years in current role: 30

What is your biggest professional goal for the rest of this year?

My biggest professional goal every year is to provide the best possible legal representation to each client who entrusts me with their case. Providing compassionate and personalized legal representation to clients who are going through a difficult and stressful time due to their injuries is always my primary focus.

What do you expect to be the biggest challenges for the legal industry locally in the near future?

Finding, mentoring and fostering the professional development of the next generation of attorneys has become a real challenge for most firms. As we strive for more work-life balance and the efficiencies of remote meetings, zoom court conferences and depositions, something is lost. The power of personal connection and development of relationships with your mentors, colleagues, opposing attorneys, the court and clients is dwindling with less personal interaction. A sense of connection is important to provide perspective, support and grounding. The cultivation of personal relationships is critical for career satisfaction and retention of young lawyers.

What are your favorite aspects of the types of law you practice?

The best part about being a personal injury litigator is having the opportunity to help people who are in bad situations. Clients who seek my assistance have typically been impacted by a life-changing injury or the tragic loss of a family member. As a personal injury lawyer, you have the chance to make a real difference in the lives of your clients by holding those responsible accountable for their actions. Helping to guide my clients through a difficult time, giving them a voice to tell their story and achieving justice on their behalf is very rewarding.

What is your favorite time of year in the Rochester region and why?

Perhaps because our winters are so long, summer is by far my favorite time of year in Rochester. From farmers’ markets to festivals and concerts there is always something to do and the weather is perfect!

What career do you think you would have if you weren’t a lawyer?

Honestly, I can’t imagine doing anything else.

This profile is part of our Litigation Power List for 2024. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. View the full list at nydailyrecord.com.