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Brian Damas Thoman

Criminal defense Attorney at Virginia Beach, VA

4.8   24 reviews

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About Brian

Learn Brian’s areas of practice.

Have you been accused of committing a crime and are wondering where you can turn to receive the help and support you need at this time in your life? Criminal charges are extremely serious and can result in all kinds of consequences that you never anticipated. It is at this pivotal time that you need to take the proactive approach and seek out the help you need as soon as possible. Attorney Brian Damas Thoman obtained his law degree from the Regent University School of Law. He has been authorized to serve in The United States District Bankruptcy Court, the Eastern District of Virginia, and the courts throughout the Commonwealth in Virginia. In addition, he is a member of the American Bar Association, the Newport News Bar Association and the Virginia Bar Association. Attorney Thoman gained invaluable experience working for the Newport News Office of the Commonwealth Attorney. He has a thorough understanding of the criminal process and is committed to fighting for you and the resolution that is in your best interests. He understands the weightiness of criminal charges. More importantly, however, he knows how to fight for you and the outcome you desire. Criminal charges of any kind are extremely serious and can bring about all kinds of penalties and consequences that you never intended to bear. Although they are extremely serious, you can face your circumstances with confidence when you have the right attorney on your side! Attorney Thoman is competent, dedicated, and ready to fight for you and the outcome you desire. With so much on the line for your future, why are you still waiting? Attorney Thoman has assisted numerous other individuals who are in situations much like yours, so pursue the help you need today! Pick up the phone now and contact the law firm to receive the help you need.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 16 years
State VA
Status Active
Acquired 2006
Updated 12/27/2022

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Brian

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Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  24 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by anonymous | February 26, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I'd Hire Him Again - Hope I never have to.
I found Mr. Thoman online when dealing with my ex in VA who sought a DVPO against me. I am out of state, and had no local recommendations for lawyers. Scary situation, but I took a chance on Mr. Thoman, and I don't regret it. He was candid and honest from day 1. He nipped the nonsense right away - no DVPO. This is one competent attorney, and I would recommend to him to anyone. He is a no nonsense guy, and this is his firm so he doesn't nickel and dime. Worth Every Penny! I highly recommend this attorney!!
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Posted by anonymous | December 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Competent, reliable attorney in & out of the courtroom
Unfortunately, almost as soon as he turned 18, our son made some poor choices & found himself in very, very serious trouble as an adult. With absolutely no idea of who to call, we blindly googled attorneys in our area & happened upon Brian Thoman. we read his bio & the reviews he had online. We were impressed that he had prior prosecutor work under his belt as the charges pending against our son were criminal. After calling a couple of other attorneys we knew from their t.v. ads, we felt Brian was definitely the best fit for our son’s situation. Brian not only had knowledge of the law, but compassion. He explained everything to us thoroughly & never gave us any false sense of hope. He was very clear about what we could expect, but he worked tirelessly until the very end to ensure a positive outcome for our family. Our son wisely followed Brian's advice to the "t" & the very serious felony charges were dropped. I have no doubt that if we hadn't hired Brian, our son would be sitting in jail right now—possibly for several years. Brian had a very good rapport with the prosecution attorneys & it was clear in viewing their interactions in court that they had respect for him & took him seriously. He also took the time to meet with the detective (usually a witness for the prosecution) on our son’s behalf & Brian was also able to secure a favorable review of our son from the detective to present to the prosecutor & Judge in our son’s defense. We are so very glad that we used Brian Thoman & would definitely recommend him to anyone needing a skilled attorney. His assistant, Amanda, was amazing & kept us updated & on track every step of the way. On a side note, they also worked with us on their fees & we were able to pay over time so it didn’t put too much of a strain on our finances all at once. Bottom line…..call Brian Thoman if you need a competent, reliable attorney in & out of the courtroom. He was definitely worth every penny. We are all so very grateful to Brian & Amanda for all their hard work & diligence over the past year, which made it possible for our family to begin this New Year with a fresh outlook-thank you
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Posted by Lisa | November 18, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phenomenal Attorney
Mr. Brian Thoman is phenomenal! It took me some time to find time to write this review, but I was determined to find time. A few months ago, my husband was charged with a petty larceny from Walmart. This is something completely out of my husband's character, but without going into personal details, he was going through a very difficult time and Mr. Thoman helped us with this. We scheduled a visit with him and he was very down to earth , compassionate and understanding of the situation that had occured. He took his time and we felt rushed at no time. He recommended my husband to take a Theft Class and do some community service prior to court, which he did. He went out of his way to contact the security person at Walmart and work out a deal with him and we did not even have to appear before the judge. We will definately use Mr. Thoman again if we ever have an instance we need him for any legal issue. He is a perfect combination of what we wish we could find in any attorney, smart, savvy, well spoken, yet down to earth, compassionate and understanding. We want to thank him from the bottom of heart! Thank you Mr. Thoman!
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Posted by anonymous | November 1, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Outcome!
Mr. Thoman walked me through my case from beginning to end. Being a DUI, I was facing jail time, license being suspended and the possibility of losing my job. During trial, Mr. Thoman got the charges drastically reduced! It is no longer going to affect me, my license, nor did I need to sit in jail, and I was able to keep my job. If I am ever in need of legal help I will absolutely come back!
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Posted by anonymous | October 5, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Well Practiced
*Took time to prepare for court *Knew the other atty-and how to win *He knew this was a false charge, he didn't miss "the fine print"
Posted by anonymous | April 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome defense lawyer....
Mr. Brian Thoman was excellent in handling my case for criminal charges that were false. He was very thorough and respectful, he helped vindicate me in a sitituation i thought was virtually impossible because of the circumstances. I definitely recommend him as a defense attorney and his staff is very courteous and proffesional. Danielle
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Posted by anonymous | March 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I can't believe it!
I was referred to Mr. Thoman by one of his other clients. I was impressed right away. He took the time to talk to me, to get my side of the story, and to help me. He told me that I had a good case and that I should fight. The case went to trial in front of the Judge, and he got the charges dismissed. I was in shock. I could not believe that! I'm glad I listened to him, in the beginning I was telling him to get me a plea.
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Posted by Joseph | February 8, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A good man to have in your corner
My ex accused me of DV and kidnapping when I wouldn't let her drive stoned on prescription meds. I was facing a felony charge. I could not afford to go to trial, but Mr. Thoman worked with me and the prosecutor to have the charge reduced to a misdemeanor with only 5 days of jail time and the rest suspended. I hated pleading guilty when I wasn't, but it let me get back to work and start putting the whole thing behind me. He explained everything to me patiently and helped me get through a horrid time. While I hope never to need a defense attorney again, I would certainly call him for any other legal work.
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Posted by Y.J. | November 7, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Attorney in Chesapeake
I was referred to Brian by my attorney in NOVA. I was chased by a cop and given an erroneous ticket by not slowing down or changing lanes for an emergency vehicle on the side shoulder. Brian proved that the charge was BS, and got my case dismissed. Call Brian if you want your case tried, he's worth the attorney fees. Thanks Brian!
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Posted by Gary | October 14, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
Great lawyer. I got into a situation which could have meant jail time, the stress was unbearable. Losing my job, house etc. Brian negotiated with the prosecutor and I ended up only having to attend evaluation classes, with no guilt. The prosecutor wanted me to plead guilty and defer the charges, Brian told her NO, that we would do a continuance and after 6 months the charges would be dropped without any guilty plea, she agreed. It was just a walk in the park for him, he had control of the situation from the start. He also kept me informed throughout and above all, he was very caring and gave great advice. With him leading the charge, the whole trial may have lasted 10 minutes. If you need a great lawyer, contact Brian Thoman, and don't even look anywhere else.....
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Posted by anonymous | March 25, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Practice
Mr. Thoman and his practice provided expert service in my case. He was very honest, patient, and very experienced about the laws surrounding my case. He took a lot of time didn't rush through discussions and provided great advice. I would recommend this practice highly.
Posted by Joy | November 7, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding
Mr. Thoman did an outstanding job restoring my good name. I could not give him a high enough rating. He really cares. He a,so is brilliant and can think on his feet. We hit a wrinkle in the case and thought we might have to request a continuance. But Mr. Thoman quickly regrouped and was able to successfully argue for my benefit. You won't be sorry if you hire him,
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Posted by BMM | October 22, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
I had a non-speeding reckless driving charge in Virginia Beach. After I consulted about 4 attorneys, I decided to go with Brian Thoman because of my conversation with him, his reviews online and also because he was a former prosecutor. I am so glad that I decided to retain him. He is very personable and knows his stuff and offered great and most importantly right advice. His office manager - Amanda is also great to work with. Brian explained me the process and took my calls when I had questions. On the day of the court date, he met me 30 minutes prior to the court date and we discussed the options again. He then met with the officer/trooper who had issued the citation and convinced first him and then the Judge to drop the case rather than reduced to improper driving. Very happy with the outcome and I highly recommend him.
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Posted by Mike | June 12, 2015
Fellow Defense Counsel
I have had experiences with Brian as a prosecutor and a defense attorney. I have also called upon him when I needed another attorney to represent a client for which we had a conflict. You can count on his knowledge, diligence and experience to get the best results.
Posted by Angela | April 14, 2015
A True Champion For His Clients!!!
There are not enough words to express my gratitude to Brian Thoman. He worked so hard on my case, and ALWAYS kept me updated on every detail. He was easy to reach and always willing to talk, and made me feel comfortable and confident. He explained the legal things in terns I could easily understand, and even met with me on Sunday morning to review things before court. On trial day he reassured me, and I was amazed when the case began. Mr. Thoman had previous cases, legal books, and all of his "ducks in a row" and objected to almost everything the other side said. His objections were sustained, and he did not miss a single opportunity to fight for me. He was FAR better than any lawyer I have ever seen on tv. (This was my first time in a real courtroom). Not only did we emerge victorious, but Mr. Thoman immediately began work to get my record cleared of all charges. I would also like to add that his office manager, Amanda, is fabulous, going out of her way to help whenever possible, and to communicate with me. I would highly recommend Thoman law and if I EVER have a legal need again he will be the one I consult. I am so very, very grateful for his hard work and dedication.
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Posted by anonymous | December 2, 2014
Excellent lawyer who knows his stuff and will provide you with any and all options!
Let me first explain why I needed to hire a lawyer, to put it simply, I made a really bad choice and shoplifted $37 worth of items and I was being charged with petite larceny. It was definitely the biggest mistake of my life and knew I needed to hire a lawyer and quick. I shopped around for a little but never found "the one" that I liked until I met Mr. Thoman. With my little experience in the legal world, I found that most lawyers will provide you with a free 15-30 minute consultation via phone. While this is a good way for any lawyer to save time and essentially money, Mr. Thoman goes above and beyond by meeting with you in person for a full hour! For free! Keep in mind that this is just for the possibility that you might choose him as your lawyer. Already, my first impression was a good one. During that hour consultation, he laid out every possible outcome of the case possible. Again, comparing him to other lawyers I had consultations with, the other lawyers did go over some of the possible outcomes, but not all of them, which is very important for any person seeking legal advice to know. He advised what could or would help my case and gave me a few tasks to complete prior to going to court. The tasks were community service and a theft class. In the mean time, while I completed the tasks given to me, his office personnel attempted to contact the loss prevention officer numerous times (approximately 8 times in one month alone). Unfortunately, or fortunately, his office was never able to reach them via phone. While I would presume that most lawyers would say their hands are tied, Mr. Thoman again when above and beyond and physically went to the Walmart to track down the loss prevention office. Unfortunately there was no avail due to the loss prevention being on a project elsewhere. We weren't left any other options other than going to court and hoping to plea with the loss prevention officer prior to court to not pursue the charges. Fortunately, Mr. Thoman located the LP office in court, asked to speak with her outside of the court room, and convinced the LP to dismiss the case. Of course had I not heeded Mr. Thomas's advice and completed the theft class and community service which became the determining factor in why the LP office decided to dismiss the case. The only advice I can give any person seeking his advice FOLLOW IT!!!! After all this IS his area of expertise.
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Posted by anonymous | September 25, 2014
Recommended
Hired this attorney to defend my son on a criminal charge that he was guilty of. The outcome was far better than I expected. Because I'm in a different state, my only contact with Mr. Thoman was by phone. My son was very favorably impressed with him and told me more than once that he's a great guy and excellent lawyer.
Posted by Lance | August 1, 2014
Excellent Attorney
Mr. Thoman represented me in a recent case. It was a brandishing a firearm charge.He is very knowledgeable and represented me better than I could have ever imagined. I even was able to receive my firearm back from the police department that they took for evidence. I received no jail time also. Thank you Brian for everything.
Posted by Deric | March 20, 2014
Simply a fantastic Lawyer!!
Faced with two DV cases on false accusations from my girlfriends ex.Mr. Thoman was able to see through the lies & expose them in court getting the case dismissed.Mr. Thoman is a straight up guy who will tell you all of the facts & keep you informed about the details of your case at all times.He goes out his way for you at times & cares about his clients.I would recommend if your in need of a great lawyer-friend whom you can trust,don't hesitate to get your consultation today!
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Posted by Matt | December 4, 2013
Thumbs Up !!!!!!!
The Johnnie Cochran of Virginia. Great Guy. Even better lawyer. Brian spoke with my arresting officer for 5 minutes and got him to drop all charges. Thanks again !!!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
  • Hourly Rates $ 250-400 per hour
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Thoman Law
  • 2013 - Present
  • Sr. Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney
  • Office Of The Commonwealth's Attorney
  • 2007 - 2013
  • Associate
  • Law Offices
  • 2006 - 2007

Education

  • Regent University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2006
  • University of Strasbourg, France
  • 2004
  • Gettysburg College
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2000

Legal Cases

  • Commonwealth v. D.P.
  • Won
  • Commonwealth v L.J.
  • Won

Associations

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Newport News Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • Virginia State Bar
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • Attorney at Law Magazine
  • editor
  • 2014 - 2014
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top Attorney
  • The Global Directory of Who's Who
  • 2018
  • Best DUI Lawyers in Norfolk
  • Expertise
  • 2018
  • Best DUI Lawyers in Virginia Beach
  • Expertise
  • 2018
  • Top Attorney
  • The Global Directory of Who's Who
  • 2017
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • The National Trial Lawers
  • 2017
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2017
  • Best DUI Lawyers in Norfolk
  • Expertise
  • 2017
  • Best DUI Lawyers in Virginia Beach
  • Expertise
  • 2017
  • Best DUI Lawyers in Virginia Beach
  • Expertise
  • 2016
  • Top 3 DWI Lawyer in Virginia Beach
  • Three Best Rated
  • 2016
  • Best DUI Lawyers in Norfolk
  • Expertise
  • 2016
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Top Attorney
  • The Global Directory of Who's Who
  • 2016
  • A+ Rated
  • Better Business Bureau
  • 2015
  • Top Attorney
  • The Global Directory of Who's Who
  • 2015
  • Top Attorney
  • Coastal Virginia Magazine
  • 2015
  • Top 3 DWI Lawyer in Virginia Beach
  • Three Best Rated
  • 2015
  • Solo Practitioner of the Month - June
  • Attorney At Law Magazine
  • 2013
  • Outstanding Contribution to Law Enforcement
  • Newport News Police Department
  • 2012
View all awards

Publications

  • Research Assistant
  • Estate Planning for Florida Residents
  • 2005

Speaking Engagements

  • Newport News Police Academy
  • Criminal Procedure and Constitutional Law
  • 2012
  • Newport News Police In-Service Training
  • Criminal Law and Procedures of Prosecution
  • 2012
  • Commonwealth's Attorney Training
  • Understanding Arson & How to Prosecute
  • 2011
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (33)
Given (39)
Endorse Brian
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I Fully endorse this lawyer. I have been on the opposing side with Brian on many occasions. He has always demonstrated a quick ability to analyze the case and present his side in the best format to bolster his strengths. His demeanor has always remained very professional and curteous to counsel, as well as all involved, while still demonstrating his confidence on his position. There is no doubt that Brian will be a extreme benefit to any client who has the priviledge to have him as counsel."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Phenomenal attorney and even better person. Brian has years of high level prosecutorial experience and it shows in his attention to detail, case preparation and court room presence. Without a doubt, one of best!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brian’s experience with the criminal justice system always pays off. He knows the courts and the law."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I worked with Brian for years. I have also had cases against Brian with him being the opposing counsel. They are battles. He does an awesome job and he fights very hard on behalf of his clients and gets them fantastic outcomes. If I got in trouble, I would hire Brian in a split second to protect my freedom. Awesome guy and an awesome lawyer!!!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brian is a clever and compassionate attorney. Prior to practicing myself, I was fortunate enough to work with and learn from him. I am honored to have him as a colleague. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I met Brian during my time as a prosecutor. He was always well prepared and knowledgeable. Brian has a great reputation with fellow lawyers and judges in the community. I endorse this attorney without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Mr. Thoman. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I had several cases with Brian when he was with the Newport News Commonwealth Attorney's Office. I always found him to be a very knowledgeable and skillful opponent and I endorse him without hesitation."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 03
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer for always putting the clients needs first."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 19
Relationship: Co-worker
"I had the distinct pleasure of working with Brian on many cases at Commonwealth Attorney's Office. I then had the pleasure of working with him on the other side of the case when he became a criminal defense attorney. Brian is a fearless and phenomenal attorney. I definitely endorse this attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Brian is a man who can get the job done. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 03
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Brian. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
View more endorsements
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Virginia Beach Criminal defense Lawyer Brian Damas Thoman
Brian Damas Thoman
Criminal defense Attorney
Virginia Beach, VA
Licensed for 16 years
Free Consultation