Thomas B. Quinn

Thomas B. Quinn is a veteran litigator and the General Counsel of Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP (RSHC) in Chicago. With more than four decades of courtroom and arbitration experience, Thomas is widely recognized for his skill in high-stakes commercial litigation, intellectual property disputes, class actions, and constitutional challenges. He is known not only for his trial advocacy but also for his strategic use of mediation and arbitration to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively.

Thomas holds a B.A. with honors and distinction from Stanford University and earned his J.D. from Stanford Law School in 1978. He is admitted to practice in California and Illinois, as well as before the U.S. Supreme Court and numerous federal appellate and district courts across the country.

Throughout his career, Thomas has successfully represented clients in complex litigation in federal and state courts, as well as before agencies including the International Trade Commission. A key highlight of his practice was defending a coalition of local governments against constitutional challenges to fair housing programs—a high-stakes case that progressed from trial through appeal in the Seventh Circuit and a petition for certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court. He also has extensive experience leading high-impact commercial mediations before leading alternative dispute resolution providers, including JAMS, the American Arbitration Association, and the CPR Institute.

Thomas’s career began with civic activism, campaigning for government reform and engaging in legal actions with public interest implications. His early advocacy laid the groundwork for a principled, persuasive legal style that resonates with juries, judges, and opposing counsel alike.

Consistently recognized by Best Lawyers in America (2013–2025), Illinois Leading Lawyers, and Benchmark Litigation, Thomas B. Quinn is regarded as a stand-out litigator who blends legal intellect with practical solutions. He continues to be a trusted advocate and advisor for clients navigating complex commercial conflicts.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner & General Counsel, Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP
• Member, American Bar Association, Litigation Section

Licensed State

• California
• Illinois

Education

• Stanford Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Stanford University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges