Tom Shumate is a Partner in Thompson Burton’s Commercial Litigation Practice Group. He joined the firm from Meridian Law, which he founded in 2014.  

Tom’s reputation in the legal industry is one of leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence, as he approaches each legal matter with integrity, providing clients with honest, strategic counsel while prioritizing cost-effective solutions.  Tom’s practice covers a broad class of work including business litigation, employment disputes, insurance defense, and unfair competition. Over the years, he has built a distinguished reputation, particularly in handling non-competition agreements, trade secret matters, and business tort disputes.

Beyond his legal practice, Tom values quality time with his family, outdoor adventures, and reading. He never misses his children’s games and events and takes every opportunity to be outside, whether tending to his yard or tackling one of Tennessee’s “Top 100 Hikes.” A well-known book enthusiast, his colleagues often joke about how many books he’s reading at any given time.

Tom also enjoys exploring the trails at Warner Parks, searching for Nashville’s best burger (Husk remains a top contender), collecting bourbon, and supporting Vanderbilt, Notre Dame, and Centre athletics. His adventurous spirit continues to drive him, with aspirations of completing the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim hike and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

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