Getting justice after facing discrimination at work shouldn’t depend on whether you can afford a lawyer or understand the legal system. But for too many people, especially low-income workers and people of color, that’s the reality. Thurgood is working to change that by using technology to make it easier – and faster – to get legal support when you need it most.
Brandon Burns founded Thurgood to bridge the gap between everyday people and the justice system. With a background that spans law, skilled trades, and product design, Brandon is building a tool that helps victims of workplace discrimination understand their rights and take action. In this spotlight, he shares more about what inspired Thurgood, the progress they’ve made, and where they’re headed next.
1. What is your company’s mission?
At Thurgood, we’re on a mission to make the law work for everyone, especially for people who have been victims of discrimination in the workplace. We use AI to help individuals understand whether they have a legal claim and what they can do about it. Our goal is to reduce the time, cost, and confusion involved in getting legal support, and to help people feel empowered – not powerless – in the face of injustice.
2. What inspired you to start your company?
I actually started in law school, but I left to pursue a career in the skilled trades. That experience gave me a new perspective on access to justice. I met so many hardworking people who had clearly been treated unfairly but didn’t have the time, money, or knowledge to fight back. That stuck with me. I wanted to create something that could meet people where they are – something simple, clear, and effective. Thurgood is a response to that need.
3. What problem are you solving?
Legal services are often out of reach for people who need them most. Filing a discrimination claim is complex and time-consuming, and it can be hard to even know if you have a case. We’re solving that by offering a fast, AI-driven way to evaluate whether someone has a potential claim and guiding them on what to do next. It’s about reducing friction in the process and helping people take action with confidence.
