Bonnie J. Thomas

Biography

Bonnie treats each legal issue like a puzzle. With the big picture always in mind, she thrives on connecting the facts and developing the most strategic approach to achieve positive results for her clients. Whether it’s assisting with employee relations, conducting workplace investigations, bargaining union contracts, or helping clients solve high-risk problems, Bonnie is committed to delivering practical, results-oriented solutions that support her clients’ success and goals.

Bonnie focuses her practice in labor and employment as well as general civil litigation. With a business and public relations background, Bonnie is passionate about the intersection of legal strategy and human dynamics that is inherent in employment law. She understands how legal strategies impact her clients’ business operations and the dynamics of high-stakes employee relations issues. Because of this, she takes a thoughtful approach with each client, where she deeply considers their unique needs, goals, employees, and challenges. From developing strategic HR policies to resolving high-risk labor relations issues, Bonnie helps clients navigate legal obstacles in ways that protect their interests and minimize disruption.

Bonnie has represented clients in disputes under federal and state employment laws, guided them through internal investigations as well as interactions with organized workforces, and advised them on compliance issues with evolving workplace regulations. As a member of the firm’s National Labor Relations Team, Bonnie also brings expertise in traditional labor law matters. However, her experience goes beyond just employment and labor issues to include general litigation defense. Bonnie has successfully tried cases to verdict in state courts in West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

Clients often describe Bonnie as a thoughtful and strategic advocate who takes the time to understand their business, industry, people, and goals. They value her ability to tailor her approach to meet the unique needs of their business and her ability to provide advice and representation that considers their preferences and objectives. Outside of work, Bonnie is actively involved in community service work through Kiwanis and volunteers on various not-for-profit boards.

Representative Experience

  • Defended numerous claims of employment discrimination in violation of West Virginia and Federal laws/regulations
  • Provided employer counseling on employment best practices and human resources guidance
  • Served as interim chief human resources director for an employer of a 300+ employee union bargaining unit
  • Provided counsel to employers during union organizing efforts, union campaigns and elections, and related NLRB proceedings
  • Successfully defended employers in labor arbitrations in a variety of industries including healthcare, manufacturing, public utilities, and more
  • Successfully represented employers in unfair labor practice proceedings, nationally
  • Provided counsel to employers regarding issues arising under labor agreements and under the National Labor Relations Act
  • Bargained collective bargaining agreements
  • Conducted complex and sensitive investigation for healthcare provider regarding various sex discrimination, sexual harassment, and hostile work environment claims
  • Represented national retailer in high stakes civil litigation arising from a workplace accident
  • Assisted national manufacturing client in strike planning and preparation
  • Defended youth residential facility from multiple class action wage claims while securing summary judgment on claims of disability discrimination and retaliatory discharge
  • Represented large publishing and media company in matters involving alleged defamation and libel

Licensed In

  • West Virginia
  • Pennsylvania

Education

  • J.D. Loyola University New Orleans College of Law
  • M.S. West Virginia University
  • B.S. West Virginia University

Memberships

  • 2022-2025 West Virginia State Bar Young Lawyer District Representative for Harrison, Doddridge, and Lewis counties
  • Harrison County Bar Association, Member
  • Bridgeport Kiwanis Club, President
  • 2021-2022 Participant, Leadership Harrison (Harrison County Chamber of Commerce)
  • Maple Lake Club, Inc. Board of Directors, Member
  • Board of Directors, Job Squad, Inc., Member
  • Harrison County Chamber of Commerce, Member

Achievements

  • The Best Lawyers in America®: Ones to Watch- Labor and Employment Law – Management (2025)
  • Outstanding Law Clinic Student (New Orleans Association for Women Attorneys)

Speaking Engagements

  • How to Handle Unique Disciplinary Issues When Your Employees’ Social Media, Social Justice, and Social Lives Impact the Workplace, WV State SHRM Conference, November 2024
  • Navigating Disciplinary Situations, WV Healthcare Human Resources Association Webinar, October 2024
  • Holding Employees Accountable When the Law Seems to Work Against You, State WV Healthcare Human Resources Association Conference, October 2024
  • Managing the Ever-Changing Social Media Landscape in The Workplace, WV State SHRM Conference, November 2023
  • Hot Topics in Labor & Employment: Internal Investigation Post-COVID, WV Healthcare Human Resources Association Webinar, August 2023
  • Drug Testing and Navigating the Medical Cannabis Act, WV Childcare Association, July 2023

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