Attorney Herbert Thornbury Brings Decades of Trial Experience to Every Case
With more than 50 years of legal service, Attorney Herbert Thornbury is a respected figure in Tennessee’s legal community. He has dedicated his career to representing clients in personal injury cases, helping individuals and families recover the justice and compensation they deserve.
A Board Certified Trial Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, Mr. Thornbury brings seasoned trial experience, deep legal knowledge, and strategic clarity to every case he handles.
Mr. Thornbury began practicing law in Tennessee in 1973 and has since built a reputation for thorough preparation, compassionate advocacy, and results-driven representation. He is a military veteran and a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Law.
In addition to his litigation work, Mr. Thornbury has also taught business law and remains active in numerous professional legal organizations.
His legal excellence has earned him recognition from Super Lawyers, a distinction awarded to just 5% of attorneys based on peer evaluations, professional achievements, and independent research.
Education and Military Service
- McCallie School, Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Board of Directors, 1988-1989; 1992-1993
- President, Alumni Counsel, 1987
- Alumni Counsel, 2000-2008
- University of Tennessee at Chattanooga – 1968 (B.A.)
- University of Tennessee College of Law – 1973 (Juris Doctorate)
- United States Army 1968-1976
- 199th Light Infantry Brigade, Republic of Vietnam 1969-1970 First Lieutenant Platoon Leader
- Bronze Star with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters
- Captain, United States Army Reserve 1971-1979, Judge Advocate General’s Office
Teaching and Guest Speaking Experience
- Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association, Speaker on Workers’ Compensation and Subrogation
- National Business Institute, Speaker on Workers’ Compensation
- Chattanooga Trial Lawyers Association, Speaker on Workers’ Compensation and Liability
- University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Adjunct, Professor, Business Law
- American Institute of Banking, Adjunct Professor, Business Law
Licenses & Admissions
- Chattanooga Bar Association
- American Bar Association
- Licensed to practice in Tennessee since 1973
- Board Certified Trial Specialist, National Board of Trial Advocacy 1995-2025
- Rule 31 General Civil Listed Mediator, Tennessee Supreme Court
Professional Memberships and Associations
- Chattanooga Trials Lawyers Association
- Member, Board of Governors, Past President
- Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association
- Member, Board of Governors, 1980-1996
- Chairman, General Liability Section, 1991-1994
- American Association for Justice
- Tennessee Delegate to The Democratic National Convention 2020
- Multiple Sclerosis Society, Board of Directors
- National Medical of Honor Heritage Center, Secretary, Board of Directors
- Appointment by the Tennessee Supreme Court as a trial hearing officer of the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility, 2 terms, 8 years
- Judge, Town of Walden 1992-2024
Work With Herbert
If you need a seasoned attorney who blends wisdom, strategy, and strength, Attorney Herbert Thornbury is here to help. Contact The McMahan Law Firm today for a free consultation with Herbert. You don’t pay unless we win.
