The American Institute of Architects–Missouri (AIA Missouri) has retained veteran construction attorney and GOT principal William S. “Bill” Thomas as its outside counsel by its Board of Directors. The selection recognizes Thomas’s three‑plus decades of service to design professionals and underscores AIA Missouri’s commitment to proactive, industry‑specific legal guidance.
Thomas, co‑founder and principal of Gausnell, O’Keefe & Thomas, LLC in St. Louis, has devoted 31 years to representing design professionals throughout Missouri, Illinois, and now, in Colorado. His practice covers contract drafting and negotiation, loss‑prevention counseling, professional liability defense, mediation, and arbitration. Colleagues and clients alike commend his ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical strategies that keep projects moving and protect professional reputations.
Bill is an affiliate member of the AIA, ASCE, and the Engineer’s Club of St. Louis. Over the years, he has delivered dozens of AIA‑approved continuing‑education programs on topics ranging from limitation‑of‑liability clauses and delegated design to evolving standards of care and document retention.
In his advisory capacity, Thomas will assist the AIA Missouri on governance matters, monitor legislative and regulatory developments affecting the profession, and assist in drafting position papers that advance architects’ interests across the state. He will also continue to develop educational programming aimed at helping architects navigate an increasingly complex risk landscape.
AIA Missouri’s decision highlights the value of practical risk management for design professionals. Bill’s appointment not only benefits the architectural community but also reinforces his firm’s mission to help clients build safely and successfully.
The retention as AIA-MO’s counsel adds to a year of professional recognition for Thomas. Recent accolades include selection to Missouri Lawyers Media’s 2024 “Power List” of construction attorneys and designation by AM Best as the 2025 “Lawyer of the Year” for Construction Law in St. Louis. He also serves on the American Arbitration Association’s Construction Neutrals Panel and chairs the International Association of Defense Counsel’s Construction Law Committee.
Design professionals seeking legal insight or continuing‑education resources can learn more about Thomas’s services at gotlawstl.com or explore AIA Missouri’s programs at AIAmo.org.
Gausnell, O’Keefe & Thomas, LLC, congratulates Bill Thomas on this prestigious appointment and looks forward to supporting his expanded service to Missouri’s architectural community. Of course, Bill remains with the firm, as this appointment is only in the capacity of outside counsel to the AIA Missouri. If you are an architect or have questions related to the construction industry, feel free to contact Bill to set up a consultation.