Debra L. Thomas

Debra L. Thomas has more than 15 years of experience in criminal defense and civil litigation. A third-generation lawyer, she has played a key role in some of the nation’s most high-profile civil rights and wrongful death cases, securing record-setting verdicts and settlements on behalf of victims and their families.

Debra earned her Juris Doctor from Chicago-Kent College of Law and holds a Master’s in Elementary Education from DePaul University. She also received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan. Admitted to practice in Illinois and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, she combines legal expertise with a strong foundation in advocacy and education.

Debra’s notable work includes the $27 million settlement for the family of George Floyd and a $44.7 million police misconduct verdict—the largest of its kind in Illinois. Her achievements include a $21.3 million police chase verdict and a $12.35 million medical malpractice settlement involving a cancer misdiagnosis, highlighting her commitment to justice in complex cases.

As Director of Continuing Legal Education and Professional Development at the firm, Debra leverages her background in education to guide trial preparation and attorney development. She has served in leadership roles with the Illinois State Bar Association, including as Chair of the Standing Committee on Member Services and as a member of the Committees on Artificial Intelligence and Women & the Law.

With a reputation for impactful advocacy and legal excellence, Debra L. Thomas continues to advance civil rights while mentoring future legal professionals. Her ability to blend litigation strength with educational leadership makes her an indispensable force in the legal community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Managing Attorney, Romanucci & Blandin
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Member, Illinois Trial Lawyers Association

Licensed State

• Illinois

Education

• Chicago-Kent College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Michigan
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  
• DePaul University
  Master of Education (M.Ed.)

Awards & Badges