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Phoenix S. Ayotte

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also known as Phoenix Ayotte Harris
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Avvo Rating10
  • Alexandria, VA
  • Licensed for 13 years
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About Phoenix

Practice areas

Administrative law
  1. Administrative law: 100%

    Security clearance revocations, suspensions, denial, appeals, and all related matters.

Languages spoken

English

Contact

AYOTTE LAW, LLC

1800 Diagonal Road
Suite 600
Alexandria, VA, 22314

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    VAAuthorized to Practice Law200802/13/2017
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers262
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Top LawyerWashingtonian Magazine2019
    Top LawyerWashingtonian Magazine2018
    Rising StarSuper Lawyers2018
    Rising StarSuper Lawyers2017
    Rising StarSuperLawyers2016
    Top 40 Under 40National Trial Lawyers2016
    Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers Association2016
    Top Lawyer 2015Who's Who Legal2015
    Top 40 under 40National Trial Lawyers Association2015
    TOP 100 TRIAL LAWYERSNational Trial Lawyers Association2014
    William F. Blews Pro Bono Service AwardDean Darby Dickerson, Stetson College of Law2007
    Leadership Development AwardDean Darby Dickerson, Stetson College of Law2007
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Solo Attorney at Boutique FirmAYOTTE LAW, LLC2019 - Present
    Founding PartnerAYOTTE CARMICHAEL ELLIS & BROCK, PLLC2014 - Present
    AttorneyLaw Offices of Phoenix Ayotte Harris, PLLC2014 - 2015
    AttorneyGreenspun Shapiro, PC2013 - 2014
    Assistant Federal DefenderFederal Public Defender, Norfolk2010 - 2013
    Assistant Public DefenderAlexandria Public Defender2008 - 2010
    SpecialistFederal Public Defender, Alexandria2007 - 2008
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    MSJDN, Military Spouses J.D. NetworkMember2016 - Present
    National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2013 - Present
    Federal Bar AssociationMember, Northern Virginia Chapter2013 - Present
    Alexandria Bar AssociationBoard of Directors2016 - 2019
    Alexandria Bar AssociationChairman, Membership Committee2015 - 2016
    Alexandria Bar FoundationBoard of Directors2015 - 2019
    VACDLExecutive Editor of The Champion, Quarterly Publication2015 - 2019
    VACDL Virginia Association of Criminal Defense LawyersBoard Member, Representing Northern Virginia2014 - 2019
    Fairfax Bar AssociationLaw-Related Education Committee2013 - 2016
    I'Anson-Hoffman American Inn of CourtMember2010 - 2014
    Alexandria Bar AssociationBoard Member, Young Lawyers Committee2008 - 2010
    VACDL, Virginia Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2008 - 2014
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    The Virginia ChampionSuppression of Evidence - Attacking the Warrant Affidavit per Franks2016
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Stetson University College of LawJ.D. Cum Laude2007
    Georgia State UniversityBachelor of Business Administration2004
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    CJA Panel TrainingFederal Sentencing Guidelines2013
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    FELONY JURY TRIAL- NOT GUILTY- 12 minute deliberationNOT GUILTY
    Security Clearance- Foreign Influence- ReinstatedClearance reinstated
    Felony Possession of Illicit Digital Images- PROBATIONPROBATION, no incarceration
    Felony Drugs, Felony ObstructionCASE DISMISSED- MOTION TO SUPPRESS GRANTED
    Anonymous- Security Clearance Appeal at DOHAEligibility granted
    DOHA- Civilian Security Clearance- ReinstatedSecurity Clearance- granted
    Commonwealth v. F.M.ACQUITTED AT TRIAL
    Commonwealth v. M.F.ACQUITTED
    Commonwealth v. R.D.- Domestic Assault and BatteryCASE DISMISSED
    United States v. M.R.90 DAYS INCARCERATION, 90 DAYS HOME CONFINEMENT
    United States v. C.H.GUIDELINES REDUCED AT SENTENCING, NO CARS OR PROPERTIES FORFEITED
    United States v. R.D.TIME SERVED and NO MORE PROBATION
    Commonwealth v. A.C. - Felony Strangulation and Domestic Assault - DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. M.F. - Att. Malicious Wounding - DISMISSEDCASE DISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. J.A. - Felony PWID - Reduced to misdemeanor for a fineREDUCED to a misdemeanor - FINE ONLY.
    Commonwealth v. J.S. - PWID Cocaine - NO JAIL TIMENO JAIL TIME
    Comonwealth v. J.A. - Possession of Marijuana - NOT GUILTYNOT GUILTY after trial.
    Commonwealth v. LJ - DUI - REDUCED to Reckless DrivingREDUCED to Reckless Driving
    Commonwealth v. T.R. - Robbery and Abduction - REDUCED TO MISDEMEANORSREDUCED TO MISDEMEANORS
    Commonwealth v. M.F. - Attempted Malicious Wounding - RELEASED ON BONDRELEASED ON BOND
    Commonwealth v. M.S. - Attempted Malicious Wounding - DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. M.S. - Attempted Malicious Wounding - DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. Q.F. - Felonious Mob Assault - DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. Q.T. - Felony PWID MarijuanaREDUCED TO MISDEMEANOR
    Commonwealth v. S.T. - Burglary DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. J.D.- Counterfeiting and Marijuana - DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. D.A. - Contributing to Deliquency of a Minor Through Sodomy - DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. C.W.DISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. EvansFelony DISMISSED, Vehicle RELEASED
    Commonwealth v. K.S. - Public UrinationDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. Z.B. - DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. Farrakhan
    Commonwealth v. R.G. - ARMED ROBBERYDISMISSED
    U.S. v S.Y.- Federal FraudNO JAIL TIME
    Commonwealth v. D.A. (Concealed Weapon) DISMISSEDDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. A. C. (ARSON)REDUCED for future DISMISSAL
    Commonwealth v. Nur - burglaryCASE DISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. R. Franklin - sexual batteryCASE DISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. N.H. - Felony Child Abuse/NeglectREDUCED to a misdemeanor - 1 weekend in jail - NO PROBATION
    Commonwealth v. Jasmine J. - Assault and BatteryDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. Demetris A. - Credit card theft, forgery, and fraud (5 felonies)REDUCED TO MISDEMEANORS- NO JAIL TIME
    United States v. G. B. -Obscene ActsNO JAIL TIME - probation only
    Commonwealth v. Juliana S.DISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. Andrew B. - Felony TheftNO JAIL TIME
    Commonwealth v. Green (Drug manufacturing, possession of assault weapons)BOND GRANTED
    Commonwealth v. William R. - Firearm in an AirportDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. Charlotte G. - Child AbuseDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. Chavez-HernandezDISMISSED
    Commonwealth v. GibsonFelony dropped to misdemeanor, for immediate release.
    Commonwealth v. TorresDISMISSED
    In re: K.C.Expulsion avoided
    United States v. VickDISMISSED
    United States v. DuncanDismissed, client released
    United States v. ShanklinDISMISSED, client released
    Commonwealth v. T.C.Charges DISMISSED.

    Reviews

    (27)
    5 Star
    		96%
    4 Star
    		0%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		4%
    Review Phoenix Ayotte

    Phoenix Ayotte - Very knowledgeable

    Posted by

    Phoenix, was extremely helpful and very knowledgeable. She went out of her way to ensure all my questions were answered and helped me prepare and feel comfortable when going through the clearance process. She is an amazing lawyer and I would recommended her to anyone! Especially, those individuals with clearance questions or issues.
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    Clearence

    Posted by

    Phoenix has been instrumental in assisting with a very complicated clearance issue I encountered. She is calm, understanding and listens. She explains, in detail, every step of the process, She is knowledgeable and combines her experience with a positive attitude making for a ideal partner in a difficult and trying situation. I am very thankful that I found Phoenix and comforted by knowing I have her as my council as we work to resolve the issue I am contending with.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best. Lawyer. Ever!!!

    Posted by

    I had a very complicated clearance case, and had contacted several other prominent firms. Upon our first consult I knew Phoenix was simply the best lawyer I could have fighting for me. She is very professional, quick to the point (time is money, and she wasted none of my time), knowledgeable, and most of all she is ethical and very aggressive. I worked hard to produce the items she directed me to get, and Phoenix and her team got to work setting things straight. As she guided me through the process, I realized there is simply no way I would have been able to navigate my way through the situation on my own. If I could only give two pieces of advice to someone experiencing clearance issues, it would be: 1. Get legal representation. Your chances of success will drop significantly if you don't. 2. Go with Phoenix. She will fight hard for you, won't waste your time, and charges fair prices. At some point you have to ask yourself how much is clearing your good name worth? I promise you won't go wrong with Phoenix. She cleared my case within record time (really-it was absolutely record time) and I was back to work with minimal disruption. Truly, I can't say enough about how hard Phoenix and her whole team advocated for me. I hope I never have to hire another attorney...however if I do, I'll definitely be asking Phoenix to represent me!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Phoenix Ayotte

    Posted by

    My attorney was Phoenix Ayotte. I elected to hire her as my attorney after having interviewed five candidates. Phoenix is very knowledgeable, thorough, and diligent. I felt that she also genuinely cared for me as a client, a trait that differentiated her from others. I am very pleased with my decision to work with her and the results.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best laywer for Federal Criminal case

    Posted by

    Ms. Harris changed my life. She is passionate, dedicated, and diligent lawyer. Also she has the best interest at heart. I’m an Asian who has been living in the U.S.A. for almost 40 years. However she was the first American who treated me like her own brother. I have run in with the laws in the past and have met few lawyers in my life. Ms. Harris was the only lawyer that looked like the ones in the movies; that you‘d wish to have when you are in trouble. She was always on the top of my case. She knew exactly what is best for me and how to deal with federal prosecutors to get the best result for me. She was always responsive with detailed information which gave me and my family a huge peace of mind in terrible times. Without Ms. Harris, I’d be still in federal prison. Only regret I have is that I haven’t hired Ms. Harris sooner for my case. If I hired her right after I got arrested, my life would have been changed again for the better. I’m sure her parents are extremely proud of their daughter and her kids (if she has one) will always be proud of their mom. My probation officer prohibits me to visit Ms. Harris for time being, however me and my whole family wants to visit her and thank her in person, a traditional Asian ways.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    Phoenix Ayotte's response: Thank you! It is lovely to hear from you!

    Best Criminal Lawyer in Virginia who really cares

    Posted by

    I was facing 4 charges, conspiracy for drug trafficking, conspiracy for international importation of drugs, conspiracy for money laundering and conspiracy for international money laundering in the Western District of Virginia, Charlottesville. These 4 charges hold up to 20 years each. I hired Phoenix and Yancey as my criminal attorneys. Phoenix is very knowledgeable, and she helped me all along the way. I needed the most help on the days I had to testify against my husband and she was right there holding my hand and putting me at ease. I really do not know if I could have done it without her. I was supposed to get around 100 months, and they got it down to 30 months. I would suggest to hire Phoenix and Yancey and do any suggestions they give you, they really know what they are doing. I will use them again in the future if need be. I am very thankful for both Phoenix and Yancey.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Management Analyst, Joint Base Andrews, MD

    Posted by

    In the fall on 2016 my security clearance was revoked due to my clearance renewal review in 2015. Since my job with the Department of the Air Force requires me to have a clearance I was lost as to what to do or where to start. I searched the internet and came across the law firm of Harris, Carmichael &Ellis and decided to contact them. I was extremely pleased with the professionalism and understanding I received upon meeting with them. The detailed work they placed into representing me in court was at the top of the charts with exhibits showing comparisons to similar and even more severe cases as mine where clearances were reinstated. I was granted to have my clearance reinstated in February of 2018 which I don't think would have happened without their hard work and dedication. I would strongly recommend their firm to anyone in need of legal services! Sincerely, Ronald
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Expert Security Clearance Counsel

    Posted by

    Such is Ms. Harris' passion for defending her clients that she began interviewing me and researching the legal issues pertaining to my complex case months before the LOI was even issued, enabling a timely and effective response to DoD CAF. Throughout this process she has repeatedly demonstrated her knowledge and experience with the unique legal arena that is Security Clearance. She educated me about the process so I have a better understanding of what lies ahead, asked tough, on-point questions to understand and evaluate every aspect of my case, and most importantly she's a good listener who genuinely cares about helping her clients meet and overcome difficult circumstances. I heartily recommend her and partners (who consult closely together on all cases) of Harris, Carmichael & Ellis for criminal and security clearance defense.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Outstanding Legal Powerhouse – Mrs. Phoenix Ayotte Harris, and Mr. William Wirt Brock, IV

    Posted by

    Integrity, Professionalism, Tenacity The professional strength of Mrs. Phoenix Harris and Mr. William Brock’s legal expertise was proven with their superb persistence in my criminal case. This legal team is very knowledgeable with just the right amount of determination to find justice for their client. They know how to move around the court room by filing the proper motions, open arguments are on point, their analysis of witness testimony and strategic cross-examination is mind-blowing and their closing arguments provides the jury with the tools of law they need to come back with a not guilty verdict. Mrs. Harris and Mr. Brock’s courtroom strategy is highly proficient and well respected amongst their peers and clients. I have retained Mrs. Phoenix Harris to represent me in the past and she has always proven a not guilty verdict. I would choose this legal team anytime I need legal counsel and I would recommend Mrs. Phoenix Harris and Mr. William Brock to anyone that needs outstanding representation from the Harris, Carmichael & Ellis, PLLC Attorneys at Law. Respectfully, Her Client M.F.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    The female Johnnie Cochran best lawyer I've ever seen

    Posted by

    I had a major case with the state of Virginia involving cocaine charges and distribution charges I was indicted and I hired Pheonix Harris she was the best Lawyer I've ever had she is very in tune with the case and she will keep you up-to-date extremely responsive not to mention I was facing something like 40 to life and there was numerous amounts of evidence something like an OJ trial and ended up just getting probation. I have had many encounters with several lawyers across the state of Maryland DC and Virginia and this was the best experience I have ever had I would recommend that If you haveany trouble with the law especially a federal case better call pho.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
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    Attorney endorsements

    (22)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    G. "Rex" Flynn, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 18, 2019
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I highly recommend Ms. Ayotte. Phoenix is one of the most aggressive and tenacious courtroom warriors I have ever met. She obtains fantastic results for her clients and isn't afraid to go to trial. She's a skilled courtroom combatant, and someone that's well respected throughout the state and federal courtrooms in Virginia by both prosecutors and judges. In addition to all of the above, she is very approachable, thoughtful and kind. She is absolutely someone you want standing next to you at counsel's table when the chips are down and it's time to go to war. I highly recommend Phoenix.

    Andrew Criado

    Phoenix is a fighter. In case after case, I have seen Phoenix argue, negotiate, persuade, and do whatever it takes to get the job done for her client. She truly is a champion for her clients. I endorse her 100%.

    Sean Sherlock, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 21, 2019
    Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

    Phoenix's reputation as one of the best criminal defense attorneys in Northern Virginia is well deserved. I had many cases against Phoenix when I was a prosecutor, and I knew her to be one of the smartest, toughest, and most effective defense attorneys around. She's also a really good person who genuinely cares about her clients and is well-liked by prosecutors, judges, cops, and her colleagues.

    Rebecca Wade, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 6, 2018
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Phoenix is a tough, smart lawyer. She knows the law and is a fierce advocate for her clients.

    Lana Manitta, Federal crime Attorney on Oct 28, 2016
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I recently had the pleasure of working with Ms. Harris on a matter in the Eastern District of Virginia. She is dedicated, intelligent, and determined, and provides her clients with high quality, experienced and knowledgeable representation.

    Jean Humbrecht, Criminal defense Attorney on May 4, 2016
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse Mr. Harris without reservation. She is knowledgeable, experienced, hard-working, and a great trial attorney. Her clients are in good hands.

    Andrew Rudolphi

    I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Harris is a very knowledgeable and hardworking attorney who has dedicated her career to criminal defense.

    Jad Sarsour, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 13, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Phoenix, is a very talented lawyer and works very hard her clients. She is a top-notch attorney.

    Mary Nerino, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 4, 2015
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ms. Harris is exceptional. She is zealous, compassionate, and knowledgeable, and has an excellent reputation for criminal defense in the community. I am very impressed by her dedication and commitment to her clients' cases. I endorse this attorney.

    Justin Drach, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 12, 2015
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Phoenix is the attorney that another attorney would turn to for criminal defense services. She is passionate about her cases, genuinely cares about her clients, commands the respect of opposing counsel and the Court, and obtains favorable results for her clients.

    Glen Kotten, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 22, 2015
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer. Highly respected in the legal community.

    Kaamil Khan, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 11, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Phoenix's clients benefit greatly from her wide variety of experiences upon which she can draw from. She is smart, creative, and easily approachable. I highly recommend her.

    Crystina O'Brien, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 8, 2014
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I inherited a case that Phoenix worked because the Federal Defender's Office had a conflict. Her work was meticulous. She is an extremely talented and effective attorney. After I saw this file, I started to pay attention and noticed that the Judges and her opponents treated her with the utmost respect. She is a rising star.

    Jennifer Raimo, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 6, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. I see Ms. Harris in court on a regular basis. She is always well-prepared and works hard to protect her clients' interests.

    Jeremy Letnick, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 29, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. She works for one of the most prestigious law firms in Virginia and I would recommend her services to anyone needing a criminal defense attorney.

    Mikhail Lopez, Criminal defense Attorney on Jul 10, 2014
    Relationship: Co-worker

    I had the pleasure of working alongside Ms. Harris on complicated and dense criminal issues. Not only does she work hard researching and drafting up issues, but she brings creativity to her representation. That creativity sets her apart from many others. She is an excellent attorney and caring individual who will investigate every aspect of your case. I highly recommend her services.

    Brenton Vincenzes, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 13, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Hardworking, intelligent, and energetic. I would recommend her without hesitation.

    Tatiana Mendez, Federal crime Attorney on Jun 10, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Ms. Harris mentored me while I interned at the Federal Public Defender's Office, and has been a friend ever since then. She is exactly the type of lawyer I aspire to be. She is intelligent, efficient, and extremely hard-working. I would feel confident putting any legal matter in her hands, and contact her regularly for advice and guidance.

    John O'Brien, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 4, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of her clients and getting them the most favorable result possible.

    Pierre Priale, Criminal defense Attorney on May 29, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I highly endorse Ms. Harris. I have known her for many years and I have witnessed how passionate and hard working she is when defending her clients. In court she is always prepared and ready to go to battle for her clients. If you are lucky enough to have her as a lawyer, you should know you are in excellent hands.