Ret. Supreme Court Justice

After retiring from the Supreme Court Bench in 2018, Justice Thomas A. Stander (Ret.) joined Adams Leclair LLP to lead the firm’s Alternative Dispute Resolution team. During his time with the firm, he provided strategic insight and mentoring that reflected his long‑standing commitment to resolving disputes efficiently and effectively.

Justice Stander now enters a new phase of retirement as an emeritus advisor to the Adams Leclair Alternative Dispute Resolution team. Although no longer engaged in active practice, he will continue to offer guidance and mentorship as the team works with litigants to find cost‑effective alternatives to courtroom litigation.

Before joining Adams Leclair, Justice Stander served nearly three decades on the New York State Supreme Court. He established the Commercial Division of the NYS Supreme Court in 1995, which has become the premier forum for complex business and contract litigation disputes.  In his ten years of presiding in the Commercial Division he earned a statewide reputation for resolving cases with fairness and practical judgment.

Justice Stander is a long‑time member of both the Federal Panel of Mediators, the New York State Panel of Mediators, and the Monroe County Bar Association.  

“As I step back from active practice, I’m especially grateful for the support and friendship I’ve found at Adams Leclair. This firm welcomed me at a time when my professional life was changing and gave me the chance to continue the work that has always meant so much to me. Their trust, encouragement, and shared commitment to resolving disputes with integrity have been a true gift. I’m thankful to remain connected as an advisor to the firm and to support a team that embodies the very best of this profession.” — Justice Thomas A. Stander (Ret.)

RECENT PUBLICATIONS

Advocate’s View: It’s the (Zoom) Where it Happens — What You Need to Know About Virtual Mediations, published in The Daily Record, October 8, 2020.