Our Jurisprudence of Excellence
For nearly three decades, Dominium has paired courtroom advocacy with boardroom fluency, focusing on a selective portfolio of consequential matters so strategy stays tailored and decisive.
Est. 1995
Forging Legal Legacy
The Dominium Mandate
Dominium—from the Latin for "domain" or "mastery"—was chosen deliberately. It reflects our core belief: in every legal matter, establishing control over the narrative, the facts, and the legal arguments is paramount to securing favorable outcomes.
Founded in 1995 by Johnathan Thorne and Eleanor Vance, the firm began as a boutique practice specializing in complex commercial litigation and high-net-worth family law. From our inception, we rejected the conventional billable-hour mill model, opting instead for strategic partnerships with a select clientele facing consequential legal challenges.
Today, while our practice has expanded to encompass corporate transactions, intellectual property, white-collar defense, and beyond, our founding principle remains unchanged: to provide not just representation, but decisive advantage.
"The law is not merely a system of rules, but a terrain of contest. Our role is to master that terrain on behalf of those we represent."
The Pillars of Our Practice
The principles that guide every attorney, case, and client relationship at Dominium.
Strategic Foresight
We anticipate legal developments and opposing strategies. Our counsel is proactive, not reactive, mapping multiple pathways to success from the outset of every engagement.
Uncompromising Integrity
Our reputation is our most valued asset. We adhere to the highest ethical standards, providing candid assessments and transparent communication at every turn.
Intellectual Rigor
Superior results stem from superior analysis. Our attorneys engage in exhaustive research and creative legal reasoning to construct arguments that withstand the most rigorous scrutiny.
Client as Partner
We view our role as an extension of our clients' objectives. Through collaborative strategy sessions, we ensure every legal maneuver aligns with broader personal or business goals.
Assertive Advocacy
When negotiation fails, we are prepared to litigate with determination and skill. Our trial attorneys are seasoned advocates who command respect in the courtroom.
Commitment to Progress
We believe the law should serve justice and societal advancement. Our pro bono work and support for legal reforms reflect our commitment to the legal profession's highest ideals.
A Legacy of Legal Leadership
Milestones in our journey of establishing legal precedent and client success.
1995
Founding of Dominium
Johnathan Thorne and Eleanor Vance establish the firm with a focus on commercial litigation and family law, championing a strategic, client-centered approach from a single office in Washington, D.C.
2003
Landmark Appellate Victory
Successfully argued before the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals in Stateworth v. National Bancorp, establishing a precedent on fiduciary duty that continues to be cited in corporate governance cases.
2010
Expansion of Practice Areas
Formal establishment of dedicated Intellectual Property and White-Collar Defense practice groups, recruiting former federal prosecutor Marcus Devereux and patent expert Victoria Chen as partners.
2016
Record Settlement & Recognition
Secured one of the largest confidential settlements in D.C. history for a technology client in a trade secrets litigation. The firm receives its first "Top Tier" ranking from Chambers & Partners.
2023 - Present
Leading Through Innovation
Implementation of advanced AI-assisted legal research tools and cybersecurity protocols. Expansion of pro bono initiatives focusing on veterans' rights and small business legal clinics. Continued recognition as a "Best Law Firm" by U.S. News & World Report.
The Dominium Methodology
Comprehensive Case Assessment
We begin every matter with a 360-degree analysis of legal merits, potential risks, financial implications, and strategic opportunities. No variable is overlooked.
Multi-Pathway Strategy Development
We craft primary, secondary, and contingency strategies simultaneously. This ensures adaptability and maintains leverage, whether heading toward settlement or trial.
Iterative Execution & Review
Our approach is dynamic. We continuously evaluate strategy effectiveness against evolving circumstances, making calibrated adjustments to optimize the trajectory toward your desired outcome.
Our Commitment to Excellence
We measure our success not by cases closed, but by objectives achieved and client confidence secured. Every member of our firm is dedicated to upholding this standard.
Ready to Engage Counsel That Masters the Terrain?
Discover how the Dominium methodology can be applied to your specific legal challenge. Contact us for a confidential preliminary assessment.