Florida Gov. Rick Scott Appoints M. Kemmerly Thomas to the First District Court of Appeal

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - June 6, 2016 - PRLog -- M. Kemmerly Thomas, a senior shareholder in the law firm of McConnaughhay, Coonrod, Pope, Weaver, Stern & Thomas, P.A., has been appointed by Florida Gov. Rick Scott to be the next judge on the 1st District Court of Appeal.

"In selecting Kem for this post, Governor Scott has recognized one of the state's brightest and most dedicated lawyers who will utilize her wealth of knowledge and experiences to best serve Florida's citizens and businesses seeking redress in the appellate court," said the firm's founding Partner James N. McConnaughhay. "Kem has been an invaluable asset to our clients, our profession, the industry, and our firm for many years. We are honored and excited that Governor Scott is giving her this opportunity to further demonstrate her talents, expertise, and passion for the law as she serves in our state's judicial system."

At McConnaughhay, Coonrod, Thomas concentrated her practice in the areas of workers' compensation defense, employment issues, lien resolution, and carrier audit litigation throughout Florida and south Georgia. She also counseled employer/carriers in matters involving the Americans with Disabilities Act, wrongful termination, sexual harassment, and FMLA. Thomas maintained a significant appellate practice. Among her clients were employee leasing companies, construction companies, governmental entities, school boards, and national manufacturers.

Thomas is a sought-after speaker on workers' compensation issues at seminars throughout the Southeast. She regularly presents at the annual Workers' Compensation Educational Conference in Orlando and the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation Annual Educational Conference. She has authored brochures to guide employers on workers' compensation issues..

Thomas is admitted to the Florida Bar, the Georgia Bar, and the Federal District Court in the Northern District of Florida. She is Board Certified in Workers' Compensation law and has been given the rating of "AV Preeminent," the highest rating possible, by her peers through Martindale Hubbell.

She received her bachelor's degree from Louisiana State University, Northeast Louisiana University, and her law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law.