Campbell Law Spotlight: Jason Thomas ’27

For Jason Thomas ‘27, his interest in litigation started with a history lesson. As a native of Raleigh, North Carolina, Thomas first thought of himself standing in front of a classroom, not a courtroom.

“I was a history major in undergrad, and I always thought I wanted to teach history,” he explained. “But as I worked on my senior thesis, I realized how much I enjoyed the research and writing process. I started thinking that becoming a lawyer wasn’t as far off as I once believed.”

Thomas’ love for analyzing complex issues, combined with an interest in public speaking and networking, shifted his career aspirations toward the legal profession.

Why Campbell Law School?

When it came time to choose a law school, Thomas focused on one question: Where would he gain the most practical experience?

Staying in his hometown allowed him to be close to the courts and legal community, but Campbell Law’s emphasis on experiential learning ultimately made the decision easy.

“Not only is Campbell in close proximity to the courthouses, it also emphasizes hands-on learning.” Thomas said. “The clinics offered opportunities that I didn’t see at many other law schools. Combined with the scholarship I received, Campbell became the clear choice.”

Since arriving at Campbell Law, Thomas has found one of the school’s greatest strengths to be its connections with the legal profession.

“The networking opportunities have been incredible,” he said. “We’re surrounded by judges and attorneys who have been practicing for decades. Having access to so many accomplished legal professionals has been one of the most rewarding parts of my experience.”

Thomas has taken full advantage of those opportunities, serving as the Wake County Bar Association Law Student Liaison, Community Outreach Chair for the Black Law Student Association (BLSA), Symposium Editor for Campbell Law Review Volume 49 and as a member of the Honor Court. He says each role has allowed him to build relationships while developing leadership skills both inside and outside the classroom.

A Summer of Exploring Litigation

This summer has given Thomas the opportunity to experience several different areas of legal practice. After spending his first summer at a business law firm, and last fall at the Federal Public Defender’s Office, Thomas is splitting his 2L summer between the law firms of Phelps Dunbar and Hedrick Gardner. Although much of his work has centered on civil litigation, Thomas said he has also gained exposure to estate planning, commercial litigation, corporate bylaws, medical malpractice and workers’ compensation matters.

“It’s been a busy summer, but it’s been a lot of fun,” he added.

The variety of assignments has helped clarify the type of attorney Thomas hopes to become.

“I’ve always known I wanted to practice law in the courtroom,” he explained. “This summer has helped refine that interest. I’m leaning towards commercial litigation or employment litigation, but I know I want to be a litigator.”

While at Campbell Law, Thomas said he has embraced every opportunity to grow as an advocate. As he continues exploring the many paths within litigation, he remains committed to learning from those around him.

Looking further ahead, Thomas hopes his career will eventually lead him to the bench. “One of my long-term aspirations is to become a judge,” he says.

For students preparing to begin law school, Thomas emphasizes the importance of relationships.

“My biggest piece of advice is to always try to make a great first impression and consistently network,” he said. “The legal community is incredibly connected, and the relationships you build now can have a lasting impact throughout your career.”