State Years

Pennsylvania - PA 36 years

Florida - FL 38 years
Licensed for 36 years

State PA

Acquired 1987

Status
Active No misconduct found
Licensed for 38 years

State FL

Acquired 1984

Status
Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

David J. Harris

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney at Wilkes Barre, PA

About
Contact
Reviews
Cost
Resume

Highly recommended

Real Estate Transaction

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Bankruptcy and debt

40%

40 years, 3,000 cases
Tax

20%

Federal and State Tax Litigation in All Courts and Tax and Estate Planning

40 years, 300 cases
Wills and living wills

20%

40 years, 500 cases
Contracts and agreements

10%

40 years, 1,000 cases
Estate planning

10%

39 years

Although I once worked for large and medium sized law firms, I am now a sole practitioner who maintains an office in downtown Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, dedicated primarily to the individual consumer and taxpayer.

I practice in the areas of bankruptcy, tax, estate, business and real estate law and engage in litigation involving those practice areas.

I received a bachelors degree in history from the Pennsylvania State University, a law degree with honors from the University of Miami where I was the recipient of American Jurisprudence awards in Trusts and Estates and Administrative Law and a Master of Laws degree in Taxation from the New York University School of Law.

I am a member of the Bars of the States of Pennsylvania and Florida, and am admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and the United States Tax Court. I have been accorded an “AV” rating, the highest rating in the Martindale-Hubbell law directory. I also serve as a mediator in bankruptcy and estate matters.

I am particularly proud to be a member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers.

I serve as well as an officer and on the boards of many civic and charitable organizations.

Awards

Client's Choice

2018 2016

Contact David

Law Office of David J. Harris

(570) 413-1046 Office

69 Public Square

Suite 700

Wilkes Barre, PA, 18701-2515

davidharrisbankruptcylaw.com

Message Get Directions

Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

32 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

Posted by Ashley | July 29, 2023

Highly recommended

I had a complicated legal situation and went to David Harris. It was my first time working with a lawyer and he made the experience as seamless and stress-free as possible. David is skilled, kind, responsive, and understanding. He helped me navigate the situation with patience and explained everything to ensure I knew what to expect. If you have any tax- or bankruptcy-related legal matters, I highly recommend David Harris.

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Posted by Robert | January 18, 2021

Real Estate Transaction

David was EXCELLENT to do deal with, we used him for a real estate transaction, I would HIGHLY recommend and I would certainly use his services again. Dave -Thank You Again

Posted by Joseph | January 2, 2021

Attorney David Harris

attn Harris was straightforward. understanding and always available for me pleaseresened everything clearly and understanding in agway that i could follow

Posted by Justin | July 23, 2019

Fantastic job by Attorney Harris

Attorney David Harris went far beyond my expectations when assisting me with my legal issues!

Posted by Rebecca | July 22, 2019

Bankruptcy

Great attorney!!! Mr. Harris went over every aspect of our case with us. He answered every question we had. He helped us throughout the entire process.

Posted by anonymous | April 12, 2019

Excellent

Attorney Harris handled my Chapter 13. He took the time to research and advise me on the best decisions for me.

Posted by Kim | October 25, 2018

Excellent Attorney

I would highly recommend Mr. Harris to represent anyone in a financial matter. He advised me first during a free initial consultation. Then he represented me through the filing of my Chapter 7 bankruptcy. His years of knowledge and professionalism were truly a comfort during this process and he made it very simple as well. He truly puts his client's needs first and his personal demeanor was a pleasure. His fees are VERY reasonable, given the time and work he put into my case.

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Posted by Nicole | July 16, 2018

The Best Lawyer in NEPA

I was in a very complicated situation involving an IRS legal matter. David Harris was there every step of the way guiding me in my legal matter. Though the situation was emotional for me on a client level, David remained level headed and guided me forward all the way through to resolution. Once the matter was finally resolved, David checked in with me to let me know he was still accessible for any other matter I was particularly pleased with the way that David answered any questions quickly that we had in relations to our case for the entire period of being a client. I would recommend David with a 5+ star rating, especially if you want to reach a resolution and get results for your legal matter.

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Posted by anonymous | July 6, 2018

Great experience

Mr. Harris was excellent handling my case from the outset. My main concern was communication as I figured he had many other clients other than myself and would therefore be unable to respond quickly but every email I sent his way was responded to promptly and if there was anything he needed from me, he was quick to let me know. I would recommend Mr. Harris to anyone in need of the services he provides.

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Posted by Andrea | June 5, 2018

Highly recommend to

David was wonderful in helping us with real estate transactions. He was very detailed oriented and thorough which helped us feel protected and heard throughout the process. I highly recommend David for assistance in legal manners.

Posted by anonymous | June 5, 2018

Excellent

If you are filing bankruptcy, I would def recommend David, we had quite a substantial debt including IRS and all went smooth and got discharged. David appears to be lawyer with great integrity and his fees are quite competitive for the amount of experience he has.

Posted by Sean | April 24, 2018

Process was comfortable

He did everything to make us feel comfortable and be at peace with our decision. “Held our hand” when we needed it.

Posted by anonymous | February 20, 2018

six star lawyer

David is an excellent attorney who was very knowledgeable and sincere through out this entire process. I cannot thank him enough for what he has done for us. I would recommend him to anyone that is thinking about filing for bankruptcy and he will guide you in the right direction.

Posted by anonymous | February 6, 2018

Used David for a Chapter 13

David was very understanding and accommodating to our needs. He took the time to make sure our concerns and needs were thoroughly addressed. He handled our case and needs very well. We would highly recommend him if you find yourself in need of his services.

Posted by Ken | January 23, 2018

David Harris

David Harris, guided me from the our first meeting, and through out the process , of my bankruptcy, he is very knowledgeable ,and professional, in his presentation and follow through is top shelf.

Posted by Yvonne | January 15, 2018

Bankruptcy

He was very clear and concise. He was respectful and so was his staff. He worked fast and he always made me aware of what was going on. He did what I expected and I'm very grateful with the outcome.

Posted by Jennifer | January 8, 2018

Excellently Service

Attorney Harris was fantastic. I was so nervous about the entire process. He kept me at ease the whole time, and always reassured me. Highly recommended.

Posted by Brenda | October 14, 2017

Business Owner

Attorney Harris provided accurate information regarding my situation and options available to me. He was professional and made every effort to assist in navigating through this process successfully. His responses to my questions and concerns had also been provided quickly. I would highly recommend him.

Posted by Donna | May 9, 2017

Attorney Harris

Attorney Harris was excellent at describing our options and walking us through every process. He was available when needed and returned calls quickly. He explained everything to us in terms we could understand.

Posted by anonymous | April 12, 2017

Bankruptcy Lawyer Referral

David was calm, cool and collected when we were not. He held our hands through the entire process and made a point to return every call and email within a timely matter. I would recommend him highly!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Owner
Law Office Of David J. Harris
1991 - Present

Associate
Rosenn, Jenkins & Greenwald, LLP
1986 - 1991

Associate
Mershon, Sawyer, Johnston, Dunwody & Cole
1985 - 1986

Education

New York University School of Law
LL.M
1985

University of Miami School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1983

Pennsylvania State University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1979

Legal Cases

Floyd C. and Marian L. Hoffman v. Commissioner of Internal Revenue
Case Settled By IRS's Withdrawal Of Assessment

Thomas J. Greco v. United States of America
Partial Summary Judgment Granted

Pelliccia v. United States Department of Education
Remand Resulted In Judgment in Favor of Plaintiff

View all legal cases

Associations

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
Member
2005 - Present

Middle District Bankruptcy Bar Association
Member
1998 - Present

Pennsylvania Bar Association
Member
1986 - Present

Luzerne County Bar Association
1986 - Present

American Bar Association
Member
1985 - Present

Florida Bar Association
1984 - Present

American Bankruptcy Institute
Member
1993 - 2002

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers
Martindale-Hubbell
1994

Cum Laude
University of Miami
1983

American Jurisprudence Book Award in Administrative Law
American Jursiprudence
1983

American Jurisprudence Book Award in Trust and Estates
American Jurisprudence
1982

View all awards

Speaking Engagements

23rd Annual Bankruptcy Institute
Advanced Stay Relief and Other Contested Matters
2018

22nd Annual Bankruptcy Institute
Treatment of Tax Claims in Chapter 7, 13 and 11
2017

21st Annual Bankruptcy Institute
What Every Consumer Attorney Needs to Know About Tax Issues in Bankruptcy Cases
2016

20th Annual Bankruptcy Insititute
Top 10 Issues Lawyers Face When Filing Personal Bankruptcy for Small Business Owners of Consumer Debtors
2015

19th Annual Middle District Bankruptcy Institute
Taxes and Bankruptcy: Pre-Petition Strategies and Post-Petition Consequences
2014

16th Annual Bankruptcy Insitute
Strategic Uses Of Tax Returns To Prepare A Bankruptcy Petition and Schedules
2011

Nuts and Bolts of Bankruptcy Law
The Basics of Chapter 13
2010

Annual Conference
Mortgage Modification Legislation
2009

Annual Conference
Tax Law in Bankruptcy
2008

Annual Conference
Cramming Down a Car Loan In Bankruptcy
2007

Cutting Edge Estate Planning Techniques
Crummey Trusts
2005

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (14)

Given (7)

Endorse David

Lisa Doran

Tax Attorney | Dec 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known David for years. As a bankruptcy attorney, I have worked with him and have spent time discussing many bankruptcy issues with him. David is highly regarded for his knowledge in the field of tax law. He is courteous and conscientious with his clients."

Jonathan Comitz

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Harris is an exceptional attorney. I highly recommend his services."

Jason Provinzano

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"David has been a very close friend and mentor whom I deeply respect and admire. David’s knowledge of the law is remarkable, and, as a fellow practitioner, he is someone I reach out to with tough questions. David is always willing to go above and beyond for his clients and for this peers. He treats people with dignity and respect, and I am grateful to know him."

George Barron

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 10
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. David is an excellent attorney. He has a deep understanding of bankruptcy law and business, and uses that knowledge to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients."

Donald Hahn

Unknown Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent bankruptcy attorney who is very highly respected by his colleagues in the Middle District."

Evan Oshan

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. A winner!"

Christian Lassen

Unknown Attorney | Sep 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Brian Tyler

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known Attorney David Harris for over twenty years, having first met him while I was working for the local Chapter 13 Trustee. Our professional relationship has remained since. I never hestitate to turn to David to discuss a difficult bankrutpcy question, as he is very knowledge in all respects in every niche of bankruptcy practice. David's reputation within the bar is outstanding. His ethics and integrity - the highest! With utmost confidence, I endorse Attorney David Harris in all regards, without exception."

Thomas Ford

Tax Attorney | Feb 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have been referring my business clients to David for tax and bankruptcy representation for over ten years. In all of that time not once has a client expressed regret over the referral. To the contrary, my clients frequently call me to thank me for recommending David as their tax or bankruptcy counsel. I would never hesitate to recommend David and have even sent members of my own family to him."

Thomas Marsilio

Business Attorney | Jan 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"David Harris is an outstanding attorney in the areas of business, tax, bankruptcy and the like. When potential clients call me for these services, I do not hesitate to refer them to David. He is extremely professional, highly competent and a fine gentleman in all respects, one who puts clients at ease with his affable demeanor. In short, he's the best!"

Charles Belles

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I had my own bankruptcy practice for several years. I accepted a position with the federal government in 2006 and closed my doors. Since that time, I stil have about a dozen people contact me each year asking for bankruptcy advice. I tell every one of them, without reservation, that I no longer do that type of law and that they should contact David Harris. David is, in my estimation, the best in the business. I have referred close friends and family members to David because there is no bankruptcy attorney I trust more than him. One of these people I referred recently came back to me and said they were amazed by how smart and capable he is. I just smiled and said, "See, I told you so." If you are looking for a bankruptcy attorney, your search should start (and end) with David Harris."

Joseph Albert

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer and the quality of his work without qualification. Dave is conscientious, hard working, knowledgeable and his ethics are beyond reproach. I have never hesitated to refer cases to him and have the utmost confidence in his legal abilities."

Lawrence MacDonald

Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Jan 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known David personally and professionally for many years. Throughout my 30 years of family law practice I have found Dave to be an invaluable resource for both complex bankruptcy and tax matters. He is one of the preeminent bankruptcy attorneys in our region and his client's are well served by his advice, counsel and trial skills."

N. Caverly

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Dec 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I have known Dave for many years as a fellow practitioner and as a friend. He is hard-working, intelligent, honest and has the highest degree of integrity I have often sought his advice on matters that we both deal with in the practice of law, and I also often refer to him clients that need advice in areas of the law that I do not normally practice and in particular income tax and bankruptcy law. I would not hesitate to recommend him and endorse him wholeheartedly. His primary fields of law are tax and bankruptcy."

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