Thomas Routson

Tom Routson is an experienced Workers’ Compensation and Employment Law trial attorney who has dedicated his career to fighting for the voiceless. A graduate of the University of San Diego, Tom began his legal career at prominent plaintiff-side employment law firms, where he fiercely advocated for employees in complex discrimination, harassment, and retaliation cases.

Heeding the call for public service, Tom later worked for the Department of Industrial Relations Office of the Director (“OD-Legal”). In this role, he administered special workers’ compensation trust funds, specifically the Uninsured Employers Benefits Trust Fund (UEBTF) and the Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF). Because these funds are notoriously complex to navigate, most workers’ compensation attorneys simply do not handle them. While at OD-Legal, Tom managed an enormous caseload, trying workers’ compensation cases before various boards on a weekly basis. His rigorous litigation experience also includes handling numerous appeals before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board and appearing before the 6th District Court of Appeal.

Today, Tom brings his specialized, insider knowledge back to the applicants’ side. At Michael Burgis & Associates, he helps clients navigate the same maze of benefits he once administered. With a strategic and relentless approach, Tom leverages his unique expertise to hold employers and insurance companies accountable, maximizing recovery for injured workers across California.