About Joanne Thomas
Joanne Thomas Blackburn is a partner at Gordon Thomas Honeywell LLP, located in Seattle, Washington. She has been with the firm since 2008 and has built a robust practice focusing on business law, products liability, construction law, and insurance defense. The firm is known for its comprehensive legal services and commitment to client success across various industries. She earned her J.D. from the University of Notre Dame in 1987 after completing her undergraduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley, where she received a B.A. in 1984.
Her educational background laid a strong foundation for her legal career, which spans multiple jurisdictions, including Washington, California, and Alaska. She is admitted to practice in several federal courts, including the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington and the U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Central Districts of California. Most of her work involves advising clients on complex business transactions and navigating the details of litigation in products liability and construction disputes. Cases typically range from contract negotiations to defense against liability claims.
Her experience allows her to handle cases at all stages, from pre-litigation discussions to trial and appeals. Before becoming a partner, she served as a senior partner at the firm starting in 2006. Her leadership within the firm has been instrumental in shaping its strategic direction and enhancing its reputation in the legal community. She has been an active member of the legal profession since 1999, contributing to various associations and organizations that focus on defense and corporate counsel. Joanne is a member of the American Bar Association and the King County Bar Association, among others. She also serves as a state representative for the Washington chapter of the Defense Research Institute.
Her involvement in these organizations supports her the legal profession and her dedication to staying current with industry trends and best practices. In addition to her practice, she is a board member of the Washington Defense Lawyers, where she plays a vital role in advocating for the interests of defense attorneys in the state. Joanne's diverse practice areas and experience make her a valuable asset to her clients and the legal community in Seattle and beyond.
