The Thomas Law Office, PLC

This annual Swim-A-Thon was my first glimpse into what it meant to push past limits, for a purpose greater than myself.   That year, I swam my first mile. Last year, I swam it again. Stronger, more confident. And this year, I showed up once more not just for the personal challenge, but for Viridiane’s Hope (VHCHE) and the communities they serve in rural Cameroon. This year marks the Fourth Annual Swim-A-Thon, and through this effort, we’re raising funds to build a drinking water well in the village of Mbeme, in the Southwest region of Cameroon. A well that will bring clean water directly to families who currently walk miles every day just to collect it. Funds from the Swim-A-Thon help construct wells equipped with submersible pumps, covered towers, 1,000–3,000-gallon storage tanks, and multiple distribution points life-changing infrastructure that brings health, dignity, and hope. I’m so honored to contribute again this year, alongside 100+ swimmers, families, and volunteers. Together, we swam thousands of laps and every single one matters. If you’d like to support this powerful mission, you can learn more or donate at: 👉🏽 https://vhche.org Because swimming a mile is a privilege. And using that mile to change lives? That’s the real victory.

What do you get when you mix litigation, entrepreneurship, and personality-driven practice? You get Margeaux Thomas, founder of The Thomas Law Office, PLC, and this week’s guest on You Are A Lawyer. Margeaux left big firm life to build a business her way—focusing on business divorces (yes, that’s a thing) and representing small businesses in high-conflict partner disputes. In this episode, she breaks down how she found her niche, grew her firm, and used her personality as a compass. This episode discusses: - What business divorce really means - How to build a firm from your dining table - Why your personality should shape your practice area Don't miss this episode: https://lnkd.in/g9w7KMji

From my experience in litigation and settlement, I’ve found it advantageous to build a relationship with opposing counsel. When the other attorney knows, likes, and trusts you, they’re more likely to be persuaded by your arguments. If we’re always at odds and disagreeing, that becomes much harder.   I don’t believe that just because we’re adversaries in court, we need to be enemies. I’ve always believed in uplifting others in our legal community.   Recently, I had a case where I thought the opposing counsel did a great job presenting their case, even though it was a challenging argument. The case eventually settled, but I later referred a dear friend to that same attorney for a criminal matter because I trusted his abilities. Now, we’re co-counseling on cases, and I even recommended him for membership into a local organization that requires a member recommendation to join. That relationship, which started with us as adversaries, became one of mutual respect.   Relationships like that matter, and they can lead to professional growth and future collaborations, whether we're on the same side or not.

On Sunday, June 8th, I completed the 1-mile Great Chesapeake Bay Swim. This race served as a perfect trial run for the 4.4-mile Chesapeake Bay Swim, which I'm considering for next year, and also allowed me to gain more experience in a cold-water wetsuit swim.   For those following my swimming progress, I'm thrilled to report a smooth and uneventful experience: no panic attacks, no cold water shock, and no breathing struggles. Everything went off without a hitch. Arriving an hour early, I was second in line for the swimmer bus, which gave me the opportunity to meet Maggie. She was the epitome of humility and encouragement, offering practical advice like tucking extra goggles into my wetsuit and even providing castile soap for post-race wetsuit cleaning. Maggie, who invited me to her tent to hang out, is an extraordinary triathlete. She began competing at 55 and, at 70, is still breaking records, including participating in five world championship sprint triathlons across the globe! Her swim story was truly inspiring, and I'm looking forward to staying in touch and following her continued journey.   The race itself was thankfully uneventful. The water temperature was agreeable, the chop minimal, and the wind cooperative, leading to a delightful swim. While a hair and swim cap issue led me to swim about 500 yards off course initially, I quickly recharted and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I'm now seriously contemplating entering the lottery for next year's iconic 4.4-mile Chesapeake Bay crossing. Regardless of my decision for that particular race, one thing is certain: there's more open water swimming in my future.

Some events leave you smiling the whole drive home, and NOVABAA’s First Annual Summer Social was one of them. Hyde Social in Arlington was packed with energy. From DJ Rell Deez’s playlist to the photo booth snapshots, it was nonstop good vibes. We laughed, danced, posed in the photo booth, and connected, without the pressure of deadlines or docket numbers. Just good people, good music, and a shared commitment to building something bigger than ourselves. And having Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy in the building? Inspiring. Her story, from public defender to policymaker is the kind of leadership we need more of. Grounded. Fierce. Focused on justice. Grateful to be part of a community that is building legacy. P.S. If you missed it this year, don’t worry… we’re just getting started.

We’re nearly at capacity! Tomorrow’s the night, NOVABAA’s 1st Annual Summer Social at Hyde is the celebration you don’t want to miss. DJ, food, photo booth, and a whole room of movers and shakers Friday, June 6 | ⏰ 5–9 PM | 📍 Hyde Social, Arlington Dress code: Business Casual Chic Secure your spot now!

Just two days away from good vibes, great music, and the best company! NOVABAA’s 1st Annual Summer Social is happening this Friday at Hyde Social in Arlington. 🎉 - Music by DJ Rell Deez - Food included - Cash bar, photo booth, and special guests - A room full of powerhouse professionals Last call tickets - link in comment!

We're kicking off summer the NOVABAA way! Join us on June 6 from 5 - 9 PM at Hyde Social for our 1st Annual Summer Social! Expect good music, great food, a photo booth, and even a special guest - State Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy! It’s the celebration you don’t want to miss. Tickets are limited - grab yours now! Link in comment.

Join the Northern Virginia Black Attorneys' Association (NOVABAA) village as we toast to our success! Celebrate with us on June 6, from 5 - 9 PM at Hyde Social in Arlington, VA. Dress code: Business Casual Chic. Let's celebrate!