Thomas Joseph Flaherty – Top Attorney
Hillsboro, OR/ WW Press/ – Thomas Joseph Flaherty Attorney at Law is recognized and distinguished in the Top Attorneys of North America 2026-2027 edition.
Thomas Joseph Flaherty is a distinguished attorney with a robust general litigation practice, specializing in several key areas of law, including Aviation Law, Automobile Collisions, Admiralty Injuries (with a focus on Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Act claims), On-the-Job Injuries (encompassing both federal and state Workers’ Compensation claims), Investment Fraud, and Business Litigation. His extensive legal expertise, combined with his decorated military service and commitment to community leadership, has earned him a reputation as a dedicated advocate for his clients.
Aviation Law Expertise
Attorney Flaherty’s Aviation Law Practice is a cornerstone of his legal career, reflecting his passion for aviation and his deep understanding of the complexities of this field. His aviation law services include:
- Aviation Accidents: Representing clients in cases involving personal injury, wrongful death, and property damage resulting from aviation-related incidents.
- Defense of FAA Certificate Enforcement Actions: Protecting the rights of pilots and aviation professionals facing enforcement actions by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- NTSB Trials: Providing skilled representation in National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) hearings and investigations.
- Purchase and Sale of Aircraft: Assisting clients with the legal intricacies of aircraft transactions, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
As a licensed pilot and active member of the aviation community, including the Oregon Pilots’ Association and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots’ Association of America, Attorney Flaherty brings a unique perspective and hands-on experience to his aviation law practice. He also serves as a pilot with the Metro Senior Squadron, Oregon Wing, Civil Air Patrol, further solidifying his connection to the aviation industry.
Other Practice Areas
- Automobile Collisions: Representing individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents, ensuring they receive fair compensation for injuries, damages, and losses.
- Admiralty Injuries: Advocating for maritime workers under the Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Act, addressing injuries sustained in ports, harbors, and other maritime environments.
- On-the-Job Injuries: Handling both federal and state Workers’ Compensation claims, Attorney Flaherty fights for the rights of injured workers to secure the benefits they deserve.
- Investment Fraud: Protecting clients from financial misconduct, including fraudulent investment schemes, and pursuing justice against perpetrators.
- Business Litigation: Representing businesses in complex disputes, including contract breaches, partnership conflicts, and other commercial matters.
Military Service
Thomas J. Flaherty’s legal career is deeply informed by his exemplary military service. A decorated veteran, he served as an Infantry Platoon Commander and Company Commander in the United States Marine Corps from 1967 to 1970. His service included a tour in Vietnam with the First Marine Division (February 1968 to March 1969) and subsequent assignments with the Fifth Marine Division and Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, California (April 1969 to July 1970). He continued his service in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, retiring as a Colonel on July 1, 1997. Among his many honors, Attorney Flaherty was awarded two Purple Heart Medals for his bravery and sacrifice.
Bar Admissions
Attorney Flaherty is admitted to practice in a wide range of jurisdictions, reflecting his extensive legal expertise:
- State of Missouri (February 1974)
- State of Oregon (September 1974)
- United States District Court, District of Oregon (December 1974)
- United States Court of Appeals, 9th Circuit (February 1977)
- United States Court of Military Appeals (April 1987)
- United States Supreme Court (July 1994)
- United States Court of Veterans Appeals (May 1996)
- United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (March 2002)
In addition, he served as an Appointed Pro Tempore Judge for the Circuit Court, State of Oregon in June 1994.
Education and Advanced Legal Training
Attorney Flaherty’s academic and professional training is a testament to his commitment to excellence:
- University: St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri (June 1967)
- Law School: St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri (May 1973)
- Honors: Winner of the 1972 ATLA Environmental Law Essay Contest
- Advanced Legal Education:
- ATLA Advanced Trial Advocacy Course, Reno, Nevada (1983)
- ATLA Advanced Medical Malpractice Course, Reno, Nevada (1984)
- National Institute of Trial Advocacy (NITA), Teacher Training Course, U.C. Law School, Berkeley (1987)
- Advanced Trial Advocacy Course, University of California School of Law, Berkeley (1989)
Professional Memberships and Community Involvement
Attorney Flaherty is an active member of several professional and community organizations, demonstrating his dedication to both his profession and his community:
- Oregon State Bar Association: Past Member and Chairman, Local Professional Responsibility Committee
- Portland Jaycees: Past Legal Counsel and Secretary of the Board
- Boy Scouts of America: Past Scoutmaster, Troop 297, Beaverton, Oregon
- Oregon Pilots’ Association: Member
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots’ Association of America: Member
- Aviation Section, Oregon State Bar: Member and Past Chairman
A Legacy of Service and Advocacy
Thomas J. Flaherty’s career is defined by his unwavering commitment to justice, his dedication to his clients, and his service to his country and community. Whether advocating for injured workers, defending aviation professionals, or representing businesses in complex litigation, Attorney Flaherty brings unparalleled expertise, integrity, and passion to every case he handles.
The Top Attorneys of North America, a New York based publication, distinguishes and profiles leading attorneys who have reached a recognizable degree of success and leadership in their field. The directory is valued for promoting awareness of the accomplishments within the North American legal community.
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