2022 Unsung Legal Heroes: Ashley Thomas

Paralegal: Litigation Paralegal Manager/Trial Paralegal SWMW Law

As the firm’s litigation paralegal manager, Ashley Thomas manages and oversees the work of the firm’s three litigation paralegals. She is directly responsible for interviewing, hiring, and training them, as well as guiding them through every facet of their position. Thomas holds weekly meetings to ensure they stay on track with their case load and meet their deadlines and keeps an open-door policy to answer any questions they may have along the way. If at any point they are feeling overwhelmed, she is happy to help lighten the load and assist them in any way she can.

Outside of managing her direct reports, Thomas also serves as the firm’s trial paralegal, where her duties include setting cases for trial, calendaring/meeting deadlines, scheduling experts, setting up court hearings, preparing all the necessary documents for trial, attending trial and more.

Tell us about your key accomplishment(s) in this role.

I started SWMW as a paralegal in 2013, only one year after the firm opened. Despite being fresh out of college and without much experience, I hit the ground running and learned everything I could about the business. All my hard work paid off in 2018, when I was promoted to litigation paralegal manager. Additional key accomplishments over the years include establishing myself as a valuable resource for my colleagues, becoming a dependable and vital piece of what we do, and the camaraderie I bring to my fellow co-workers.

What led you to choose a career in the legal field?

A high-school internship led me to work in a law firm, where not only did I really enjoy working side-by-side with the attorneys there, but I noticed how quickly I was able to pick up on everything. After that experience, I knew that I was meant for a career in the legal field.

What is the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is my co-workers. They challenge and propel me forward, provide respite on challenging days, and make my job even more rewarding than it already is. My office manager, Leslie, has taught me so much. The partners here are always friendly, helpful, and understanding, too. I feel valued here at SWMW and that is important to me.

What is something that would surprise people about you?

I’m a St. Louis Sports fan. I love the Cardinals and the Blues. I enjoy going to games with my family and rooting for our teams!