Thomas R. Gonnella

Overview

Tom Gonnella brings a business-focused perspective to complex commercial litigation, construction disputes, and public contracting matters.  A member of AP&S’s Litigation and Construction & Public Contracts Practice Groups, Tom combines litigation experience with nearly a decade as the chief legal officer of a large, multi-state, union mechanical contractor.  He understands clients’ legal challenges from both sides of the attorney-client relationship and helps clients align legal strategy with business priorities.

Tom has represented clients in a wide range of construction disputes, including delay and design claims, payment disputes, bid protests, insurance and surety matters, and claims arising under the Miller Act and state mechanic’s lien statutes.  His experience also encompasses procurement and contracting disputes involving the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and other federal and state procurement regulations.

Before joining AP&S, Tom served as General Counsel for a large, multi-state, union mechanical contractor, overseeing the company’s legal affairs and advising on issues central to its operations.  He negotiated and drafted prime contracts, subcontracts, and vendor agreements; directed litigation and litigation strategy; and managed outside counsel.  That experience informs his approach to client service: assessing risk in its business context, identifying practical solutions, and developing litigation strategies that reflect the client’s objectives.

Tom also served as General Counsel to a $2 billion public pension fund in Texas, advising its Executive Director and Board on all investment contracting, litigation, risk mitigation, and employment matters.

Earlier in his career, Tom spent eight years in the litigation and municipal infrastructure groups at a Rhode Island/New York law firm, litigating complex commercial matters before the Rhode Island and New York trial and appellate courts.

He began his career as a law clerk to Associate Justice Francis X. Flaherty of the Rhode Island Supreme Court.

Credentials