Thomas, Daniel F.

Professional Experience 

I was fortunate to know at an early age what I wanted to do in life. I have always rooted for the underdog and even as a teen I was trying to solve problems and mediate every conflict I came into contact with. Because I wanted to understand the interpersonal relationships of people and how those relationships come about I focused in undergraduate school on the social sciences.

After Law School I began my career doing primarily corporate and business law and enjoyed creating and helping to sustain those businesses. Then I discovered criminal work and found that it was like being involved in a mystery story and I could focus on successful resolutions. It gave me an opportunity to really dig into the law and how it works in a trial setting with truly adversarial roles. And so began a long career defending the accused.

I also found that same type of process in family law where I strive to minimize conflict and help people through the devastation of divorce with as little trauma as possible.

After spending six years practicing law in Salem, I moved my family to Hermiston, Oregon where I spent a few years in general practice then focused on criminal law. That career in criminal defense lasted for 17 years and grew from a sole practice to a firm practice with 11 employees including attorneys, investigators and paralegal staff.

In 1994 I went back to a diversified practice and focused on family law, wills trusts and estates and business law with some criminal law clients. I also practiced in the areas of medical malpractice. During that time I expanded my abilities by becoming trained in mediation. This mediation training has assisted me in bringing people together in conflict and facilitating their involvement in resolving their conflicts in a more friendly fashion.

After retiring for a time I found I missed the practice of law and the rewards it brings. I have been very fortunate to have found a home at Harris Law Firm where we practice a holistic approach, to be your family of attorneys to aid and assist in every area of your life where we can be of assistance.

I currently take cases in the areas of Family Law, Wills Trusts and Probate. However, feel free to contact me with any areas that I have experience in.

Personal

When I am not practicing law I spend time with my two cocker spaniels going to the coast for walks on the beach, fishing or scuba diving. I also enjoy travel, especially to warm climes or to see my children in Hermiston, OR and in Las Vegas, NV. At home I enjoy woodworking and landscaping or being in the kitchen cooking for family and friends.