Thomas was educated at Nottingham University, Sussex University and the Inns of Court School of Law.  He was called to the Bar by the Inner Temple in 1995.  He joined the firm’s Licensing Department in 1999. In 2001 Thomas was enrolled as a Solicitor and Solicitor Advocate. In August 2004 he was enrolled as a Solicitor in Ireland. Thomas became a Partner in July 2007.

Described by clients in Chambers UK 2008 as “calm, capable and a lawyer who understands contemporary business needs,” Thomas deals with all manner of licensing concerns from his position as a solicitor-advocate. Commentators speak highly of his “ability to always point us in the right direction.”

From 2000–2006 Thomas sat as the Clerk to the Board of Green Cloth, Verge of the Palaces. This appointment was made by Buckingham Palace. The Board was the last surviving court of the Royal Prerogative and it granted all liquor, betting and gaming licences attached to the Royal Palaces and Whitehall. It was abolished in 2005 when the Licensing Act 2003 came into force.  He continues to advise the Royal Household on licensing matters.

He has an extensive knowledge of all varieties of licensing, including premises licences, club premises certificates, personal licences, temporary event notices, marriage licences and betting, gaming and lotteries.  He has appeared regularly before Licensing and Betting and Gaming Committees around the country.  Amongst others he currently acts for:

• The Association of London Clubs
• Bentley’s (Richard Corrigan)
• Boujis, Eclipse, Cocoon and Volstead (Matthew Hermer)
• The Comedy Store (Don Ward)
• Embassy (Mark Fuller)
• Fifteen Foundation (founded by Jamie Oliver)
• Funky Buddha
• Goals Soccer Centres
• Imperial College London
• Institute of Directors
• The Greenhouse, Morton’s, A Voce and Umu (Marlon Abela)
• National Portrait Gallery
• Planet Hollywood and the Rex (Robert Earl)
• Royal Ballet School
• Sketch and Momo (Mourad Mazouz)
• Somerset House
• Tramp
• Zilli Fish (Aldo Zilli)