Thomas M Ybarra

Thomas was born in Las Vegas, Nevada and raised in Boulder City, Nevada. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Southern Utah University. After graduation, he served as a Legislative Assistant at the Utah State Capitol in Salt Lake City, working on key legislation involving immunization requirements, education, and child safety. These experiences inspired his later focus on family law and children's legal issues.

Thomas obtained his J.D. from Willamette University College of Law in Salem, Oregon. During law school, he completed clerkships handling child support, restraining orders, and estate planning. After law school, he had the privilege of clerking for the Honorable Beth A. Allen at the Multnomah County Courthouse. Since 2020, Thomas has practiced exclusively in family law. In addition to private practice, Thomas represents minor children in custody and parenting time disputes, often on a pro bono basis.

A dedicated advocate for justice and inclusion, Thomas is an active board member of OGALLA, Oregons LBTQIA+ Bar Association. OGALLA’s mission is to advance a legal system that is more just, equitable, and reflective of Oregon’s diverse community, and to support the professional development of LGBTQIA2S+ legal professionals.

Thomas supports its goals of promoting unity while valuing diversity, advocating for fair legal treatment regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, and engaging in public education and legislative reform.

Earlier in his career, Thomas contributed to the Multnomah County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division Service to the Public Committee, offering legal education and outreach to underrepresented communities. He continues to give back through pro bono representation of children in dissolution and custody matters.

Outside the courtroom, Thomas is a spirited fan of the Seattle Seahawks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Vegas Golden Knights. He competes in a club‑league volleyball team, enjoys binge‑watching competitive reality TV, trying new wines, reading, and spending time with his friends and family.