Thomas Maigaard (pronounced 'May-guard') has worked at
Leistico & Esch, PLLC since 2023.
Thomas brings extensive, results‑driven experience to every matter he handles. Building on a strong academic foundation—earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Iowa with three Dean’s List honors and graduating cum laude from the University of St. Thomas School of Law—Thomas developed practical advocacy skills early and at a high level. At St. Thomas, he served as Editor‑in‑Chief of the St. Thomas Journal of Law and Public Policy, worked as a writing fellow for lawyering skills, earned Dean’s Awards in sales law and negotiations, and achieved Dean’s List recognition in two semesters; experiences that sharpened his analytical precision, writing, and negotiation abilities.
Thomas then translated that training into substantial, hands‑on practice through multiple years of clerkship with Gary Leistico and Jayne Esch, working as an associate attorney at a law firm in St. Cloud, and moving to Leistico & Esch in March of 2023. He has a wide range of matters for diverse clients across agricultural, environmental, and criminal law, giving him the breadth to navigate complex facts, intersecting regulatory frameworks, and manage high‑stakes disputes. Clients rely on Thomas for his ability to quickly assess risk, craft practical strategies, and drive matters to efficient, cost‑effective resolutions.
​
Every day, Thomas applies the full measure of his experience—editorial leadership, legal writing and research, targeted negotiations, and courtroom preparation—to deliver clear advice and decisive action. His commitment is straightforward: align strategy with client objectives and achieve the best possible outcome with diligence, efficiency, and value.
Outside of his practice, Thomas and his wife Molly are avid campers, fishers, hikers, and pickleball players.