Obama Taps William L. Thomas for Federal Bench in South Florida

Floridas 11th Judicial Circuit Court Judge William L. Thomas has been nominated by President Obama to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

Thomas, who began his legal career as an assistant state public defender in Miami-Dade County, was as an assistant federal public defender in South Florida from 1997 to 2005.

Judge Thomas is a man of great integrity, who would bring tremendous knowledge and skill to the Florida Southern District Courts bench, U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson stated in a release.

Judge Thomas has earned a reputation among his peers as a tough-but-fair judge with exceptional fidelity to the rule of law. Given his exceptional qualifications and reputation, this is truly a well-deserved honor.

Thomas was one of seven federal judicial nominations made by the president.

"These individuals have demonstrated the talent, expertise, and fair-mindedness Americans expect and deserve from their judicial system," President Obama stated in a release.

"They also represent my continued commitment to ensure that the judiciary resembles the nation it serves. I am grateful for their willingness to serve and confident that they will apply the law with the utmost impartiality and integrity. Too many of our courtrooms stand empty. I hope the Senate will promptly consider all of my nominees and ensure justice for everyday Americans.

Thomas is to replace U.S. District Judge Adalberto Jordan, who was confirmed as a federal appeals court judge earlier this year.