Farnaz Thompson

Farnaz Thompson is a skilled litigator and investigator with extensive experience in representing corporations and institutions of higher education in high-profile litigation and government investigations.

Farnaz has successfully defended clients as first chair before federal and state courts as well as trial and appellate courts. She handles a variety of civil litigation including cases concerning civil rights, torts, breach of contract, employment, and constitutional claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983.

Farnaz regularly represents clients in internal and government investigations concerning civil rights laws such as Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Her deep knowledge of education laws and regulations includes the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended; accreditation; borrower defense to repayment; gainful employment; financial responsibility standards; FERPA and other privacy laws; the Clery Act; and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

Farnaz previously served as the Deputy General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Education and also as in-house counsel at the University of Virginia. She also clerked for the Honorable Leroy Rountree Hassell, Sr., the former Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Virginia.