Skip to content

Thomas Wilde advises employers of all sizes on labor relations and employment matters ranging from business advice to grievance arbitration to litigation defense.

His blend of legal knowledge and practical guidance helps clients prevent litigation and, when necessary, avoid or minimize potential liability. Thomas serves as outside general counsel to nonprofit organizations, particularly in the occupational licensing and certification sectors. He advises on governance and bylaws, maintaining tax-exempt status, strategic planning, accreditation, contracts, and daily legal matters. Clients value his ability to translate legal requirements into advice that lets them proactively manage governance and compliance challenges.

With over 30 years of experience in diverse workplace matters, Thomas defends clients against claims of discrimination, harassment, wage and hour violations, issues involving disability accommodation, and leave management. In addition, he has won dozens of labor arbitrations for unionized companies. His understanding of his clients’ businesses yields solutions in line with their operational and strategic needs.

Experience

  • Won jury trial of executive-level employee asserting age discrimination claims in federal court in Miami
  • Defeated class certification in case involving off-the-clock work and meal period claims against large healthcare institution
  • Advised non-profit organization on governance and bylaws changes in connection with restructurings
  • Won multiple arbitrations for large manufacturing company relating to fundamental change in business operations

Credentials

Education

  • DePaul University College of Law, J.D., with honors, 1993
  • Northern Illinois University, B.A., cum laude, 1990

Bar Admissions

  • Massachusetts, 1996
  • Illinois, 1993

Court Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals Eleventh Circuit, 2017
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit, 2012
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit, 1998
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit, 1997
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, 2014
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Wisconsin, 2003
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Indiana, 2001
  • U.S. District Court, Central District of Illinois, 1998
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, 1994

Affiliations

  • Member, Human Resources Management Association, Chicago

Recognition

  • Best Lawyers in America® – Employment Law: Management; Labor Law: Management (2023-2026) 
  • Chambers USA (Illinois) – Labor & Employment, Band 3 (2020-2026) 
  • Leading Lawyers – Employment Law: Management; Labor Law: Management, Leading Lawyer (2011-2026) 
  • Martindale-Hubbell – Distinguished® 
  • Super Lawyers – Employment & Labor (2024) 

Insights & Events

Attorney Advertising ©2026 Vedder

cping