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.
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 potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Phoenix Ayotte - Very knowledgeable
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.
Read less
Posted by Todd | May 28, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Clearence
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.
Read less
Posted by Lance | June 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best. Lawyer. Ever!!!
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!
Read less
Posted by Roxana | June 26, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phoenix Ayotte
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.
Read less
Posted by J. Kim | June 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best laywer for Federal Criminal case
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.
Read less
Response from Phoenix AyotteJune 8, 2018
Thank you! It is lovely to hear from you!
Posted by Deborah | March 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Criminal Lawyer in Virginia who really cares
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.
Read less
Posted by Ronald | February 28, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Management Analyst, Joint Base Andrews, MD
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
Read less
Posted by anonymous | February 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expert Security Clearance Counsel
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.
Read less
Posted by M.F. | August 9, 2017
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
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.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | April 11, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The female Johnnie Cochran best lawyer I've ever seen
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.
Read less
Posted by Nidal | April 3, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Professional, Passionate and Compassionate.
I contacted Ms. Harris, among others, on a fraud allegations brought against me. She was the only lawyer who was genuinely interested in the knowing my case details instead of speaking in general terms like the others. She was the only lawyer I spoke to who logged into the court system and checked on my case details. She invited me for a consultation next day for an hour and 15 minutes! She reviewed all the paper work I had on me, asked all the right questions, and she develped a clear understanding about my.
Weighing my options and considering my financial situation I choose to go with a public defender, don't get me wrong.....she is not expensive at all, but I could not hire her without adding financial burden on myself. Few weeks later I emailed her back, as a courtesy, to update her on my final decision and for some reason I wrote about my frustrations with the public defender and about the case in general. Guess what.... and this was the shocker for me!.......she called my lawyer and asked him about the case and updates and emailed back with the updates.!!!!!!!! She left me speechless. She was absolutely under no obligation to do what she did but she did it.
I was only a prospect and she went out of her way to help me out. I Highly recommend Ms. Harris for her professionalism and her genuine compassion for her prospects, clients and work.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | March 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Pheonix Harris
Since I've been home from prison I've found my self in the wildest situations. Twice I've been arrested and charged for crimes I didn't commit or know anything about, and on one occasion I was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. With that being said I contacted Pheonix Harris. Since the very first consultation she's been there every step of the way providing excellent service. Beating every single case that came my way. Once your in the system it's hard to get out and stay out of trouble even if your walking the straight and narrow trouble some times finds you. I can honestly say I trust my life/freedom in Mrs. Harris hands.
K.Green
Read less
Posted by Raven | January 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hire Phoenix
Phoenix Harris was so wonderful!!! I LOVED HER. She made me feel so welcomed and she connected with me in such a friendly manner. Phoenix is very honest and she is willing to help anyone out based on their circumstances. I'm almost certain she can win any case, she is so passionate in her work and she really tries to help you find the best solution. I really appreciated her for calling me after the case to check in on me. Im going to miss her but on the brightside im trouble-free :)
Read less
Posted by anonymous | September 12, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phoenix is fantastic!
I'd recommend Mrs. Harris to anyone who needs an attorney. She's focused, passionate, and willing to go the extra mile for her clients. She did an excellent job of communicating what was going on to me, and clearly had a great working relationship with the court employees and judges.
Posted by Roy | May 9, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
My Lawyer convinced me that she had my best interest at heart. And she did practice what she said. Unbelievable!
My lawyer was able to persuade the court to terminate further probation supervision imposed on Sept. 8, 2015. I am no longer on supervised probation. Thank you Mrs. Harris and of course your Honorable Judge.
Posted by Jassem A. | December 3, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A boy and his car..
On July 2nd, I was pulled over for tinted windows and later searched because of a marijuana stench I am not familiar with. I was with two people who were the culprits in the situation while I was the innocent driver. In the eyes of the Governments at work, we are all guilty until proven innocent. With Ms. Phoenix Harris in my contact circle, it was changed to innocent until proven guilty. She has remarkable talent in her field along with a stellar team working with them, especially wanting to express gratitude to Ms. Sonya Swansbrough as well! I don't know how they do it, they only show me how its done! Many thanks! Now I'm clean and serene and ready to get my life back on track! Before anyone thinks the payment is too much, ALWAYS REMEMBER that the money you pay is for the best representation availiable; with Phoenix Harris, you truly get what you pay for.
Read less
Posted by Steve | July 20, 2015
Felony charge dismissed - amazing lawyer!
I hired Phoenix and she was able to get my felony charge in Alexandria completely dismissed. I consulted with several lawyers in Alexandria and settled on Phoenix, I'm very happy I selected her to represent me. She explored all avenues in my case, dealt with the prosecution positively with her great reputation in the community, and kept me informed throughout the process. Worked closely with Jessica Carmichael, and I could always count on her or Jessica to quickly respond to any of my concerns. Highly recommended!
Read less
Posted by zide | May 3, 2015
best lawyer possible
I had never been in any sort of trouble before and my case was a typical example of a police officer taking advantage of a college student who didn't know all of his rights. Phoenix really knows her stuff and got my case dismissed with no community service needed! I didn't think it would be possible for me to get out doing community service (because my friend who also got a ticket with me at the same time had to do 40 hours, he hired a different lawyer) Best decision ever was to hire Phoenix!! Her and her staff are some of the friendliest people I have ever met. They were always available to answer any questions i had. If you want a lawyer that will fight hard for you, keep you informed, give you peace of mind that your case is being handled by a professional, and someone who will try their hardest to get you the best possible results... the only person i would trust with my record is Phoenix!
Read less
Posted by Tom | April 30, 2015
Highly reccomended!
Very educated and knowledgeable attorney that handled my case extremely well! I will highly reccomended her to all my family and friends!
Posted by Kara | April 28, 2015
Excellent criminal attorney. Well-known, well-informed, and easy to talk to!
I hired Ms. Harris to handle a city violation charge of Urinating in Public. Although this was a small case for her, she was very willing to help and always got back to me in a timely manner when I attempted to reach her with questions. The office staff at Harris and Carmichael was very helpful as well with handling documents and setting up times for me to reach Phoenix personally. I noticed that she was extremely well-known when we appeared together at the Alexandria General District Court, as she spoke with many of the lawyers and staff there. Every question I asked her prior to my court date she addressed completely, and with much confidence. For someone not familiar with law terms such as myself, Phoenix did an excellent job of clearly explaining things to me by first telling me the actual terms and proceeding to explain it in a way I could understand. She made sure that I did understand what was said before she moved on. She took the time to help me prepare for the worst case scenario and give me the best chance at a dismissal.
Although the officer didn't show for my case and it was therefor dismissed, I would have felt very confident in Phoenix's abilities to get my case dismissed had the officer appeared in court.
I highly recommend Phoenix Harris as a criminal attorney. She is extremely loyal, educated, confident, and will be dedicated to your case no matter how small.
Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.
What determines Avvo Rating?
Experience & background
Years licensed, work experience, education
Legal community recognition
Peer endorsements, associations, awards
Legal thought leadership
Publications, speaking engagements
Discipline
Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 18
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."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 15
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"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%."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 21
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."
Federal crime Attorney | Oct 28
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 04
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 12
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 11
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 08
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 29
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."
"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."
Federal crime Attorney | Jun 10
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 04
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 29
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."