Thomas Spyker

Overview Thomas is a partner in Remingers Columbus office. His practice focuses on governmental/public entity liability, employment litigation, appellate advocacy, as well as a broad range of pre-suit investigative work and general litigation matters. Thomas advocates for his clients at every phase of litigation, with a proven track record at trial and on appeal. He has successfully tried cases throughout the state and prevailed on appeal, presenting complex arguments at every level, including the Ohio Supreme Court, the U. S. Sixth Circuit, and the U. S. Supreme Court. Because effective representation starts before a case is ever filed, Thomas is a part of Remingers Rapid Response Team, assisting commercial trucking and general liability clients at the earliest phases of an incident, often responding on-site at all hours to advise clients during the immediate aftermath of a complex and catastrophic event. Before joining Reminger, Thomas served for three years in the United States Navy as a military police officer and for seven years in uniformed civilian law enforcement. Over his decade in police work, Thomas obtained several certifications and served in a variety of roles ranging from use-of-force training to hostage negotiations. Thomas also served for six years as a police union steward for the nations largest federal employment union representing fellow officers in pursuing grievances and against adverse employment actions. These practical experiences give Thomas a unique insight into public entity liability and employment defense. Representative Experience Briefed the Ohio Supreme Court on a certified conflict as to whether the medical claim statute of repose applies to wrongful death actions, contributing to a finding that it does, which reversed an unfavorable district court decision. Obtained summary judgment in favor of police department defending its field training program against claims of wrongful termination, discrimination, disparate treatment, and retaliation. (Successfully defended result on appeal). Obtained summary judgment in favor of municipal prosecutor and court clerk against federal privacy law claims. (Successfully defended result on appeal to the Sixth Circuit and briefed the denial of cert to the U. S. Supreme Court). Received a unanimous defense verdict in favor of police department in alleged wrongful termination. Honors & Recognitions Recognized as a Rising Star by Ohio Super Lawyers Magazine, 2024 Ohio Association of Civil Trial Attorneys, Outstanding Young Lawyer of 2022 Awarded Capital University Law Schools Deans Award for Excellence in Leadership and Academic Achievement, 2018 Admitted to the Order of the Barristers, 2018 Defense Logistic Agencys Police Officer of the Year, 2014 Awarded Police Commendation Medal, 2014 Community & Professional Ohio State Bar Association Columbus Bar Association American Bar Association Ohio Association of Civil Trial Attorneys Governmental Liability Committee Vice-Chair Read More