Attorney Kimberly Starr Thomas is an associate at SWMW Law. She joined the firm in 2026, focusing her practice on helping individuals and families affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.
A member of the firm’s Asbestos Practice, Kimberly works specifically on Litigation Case Development. In this role, she works closely with asbestos clients to communicate case updates, prepare them for depositions, and address any concerns they may have throughout the duration of their case.
“For many clients, this is one of the most overwhelming and uncertain times in their lives,” Kimberly said. “I want them to know they have someone in their corner who will listen, guide them, and fight for them every step of the way.” Kimberly brings more than a decade of diverse legal experience to her role at SWMW Law. A 2015 graduate of Saint Louis University School of Law, she distinguished herself academically and professionally while in law school. She was named a SLU Legal Scholar, received the SLU Law Excellence Award in Civil Litigation, and served as both a member of the SLU Law Civil Advocacy Clinic and a Rule 13 practicing student. As a Rule 13 student, Kimberly was authorized by the Missouri Supreme Court to practice under attorney supervision, allowing her to gain hands-on courtroom and client advocacy experience before graduating law school.
“My grandfather told me when I was seven years old that I would make an excellent attorney,” Kimberly said. “As I grew older and became involved in debate and Model UN, I realized he was right. I discovered I loved advocacy, problem solving, and understanding every side of a situation.”
Before becoming an attorney, Kimberly worked as a litigation paralegal helping injured individuals pursue Social Security Disability benefits. While attending law school, she continued working as a litigation paralegal and law clerk in mass tort litigation for a large St. Louis law firm, building a strong foundation in complex litigation and client advocacy.
Following graduation, Kimberly worked for the Division of Legal Services for the state of Missouri, representing the Children’s Division throughout central Missouri. After returning to St. Louis, she established the Missouri office for a real estate and creditor rights firm, representing financial institutions in land and real estate transactions as both an attorney and registered title agent throughout Missouri and Illinois.
She later returned to mass tort litigation as a managing attorney, overseeing several nationwide dockets, including In re: Pradaxa 2 and In re: Xarelto. Kimberly also handled asbestos litigation for several years, representing mesothelioma clients from case inception through resolution across the country. Most recently, she served as an Associate Attorney for U.S. Bank Impact Finance, working with Historic, New Markets, Renewable Energy, and Syndicated Fund Tax Credits. In addition to her legal practice, Kimberly is also an adjunct professor teaching Legal Studies at St. Louis Community College – Meramec Campus.
“Plaintiffs’ Attorneys are one of the few resources injured people have to achieve meaningful recovery against large, well-funded corporation,” Kimberly said. “While money can never restore someone’s health, it can provide stability, relieve financial stress, and allow families to focus on what matters most – spending time together and prioritizing their well-being.”
Kimberly believes her years of experience as both a paralegal and Attorney give her a well-rounded perspective when managing cases and supporting clients. Her attention to detail, organization, and passion for advocacy help her navigate complex litigation, while her compassionate approach allows her to connect with clients on a personal level.
“I know legal concepts and litigation can feel intimidating to people who have never gone through this process before,” Kimberly said. “I take pride in explaining things in a way clients understand so they feel informed, empowered, and supported.”
Outside of the office, Kimberly enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, Ja-bari, their two teenage daughters, and their two miniature dachshunds. Together, they enjoy camping, kayaking, traveling, and bird watching.
Memberships
Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
Education
J.D., Saint Louis University School of Law
Saint Louis University School of Law
SLU Law Scholar
SLU Law Excellence Award: Civil Litigation
SLU Law Civil Advocacy Clinic
Rule 13 Practicing Student
B.A., McKendree University
McKendree University
Double Major in Political Science and Sociology with a Criminal Justice emphasis and History minor
