Phillip Joseph Harris

Please describe a case(s) in the last year or two where you made a big difference.
I recently represented an small, but publicly traded, company in a lawsuit to return the sale of thousands of shares of stock in what was clearly a fraudulent business transaction. We were able to act quickly in having suit filed in federal court and secured a temporary restraining order enjoining various clearing house/brokerage firms around the country from trading the stock. After securing the temporary restraining order and freezing sale of the the stock (that would have crushed our client's stock prices had they been dumped on the open market) we were able to negotiate with the defendants from a position of great leverage. Ultimately, we settled the case in a deal that saved the company's reputation and stock prices, as well as hundreds of dollars in future attorneys' fees and costs.

How did you build a successful practice?
I've always believed that if you want something bad enough, you can make it happen. I've always wanted to become a great lawyer. It's been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember and I've worked hard at it. I try hard to pay attention to things that I know matter to my clients. I try hard to return all calls and emails within a few hours, if possible. I think my hard work and responsiveness has paid big dividends in building my practice. 

What should clients look for in a lawyer?
Integrity, honesty, responsiveness, intelligence, and the ability to develop creative solutions to difficult problems.

How important is local knowledge to the success of your cases?
Local knowledge can be very important. Practicing mainly in the Tampa Bay area, I've found this to be a relatively small town where everyone seems to know each other. There have been many instances in which knowing the lay of the land so to speak has come in handy in providing my clients with business advice. 

What information can you provide in a free phone consultation?
A full discussion of the potential client's legal issues and possible areas where legal help is required. We can also discuss things like fees, retainers, and short/long term strategy.

What information do you need in a free phone consultation?
A summary of the potential client's issues that may require legal assistance and an idea of what the potential client would like to accomplish through my retention.

What differentiates you from other lawyers in your community?
I think what sets me apart is my several years of big law firm experience in variety of different practice areas. I'm a well-versed attorney and have recently been named a Florida "rising star." I enjoy working what I do and have a passion for helping solve my client's legal problems. I have a fresh and positive outlook on the practice of law.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The excitement of helping resolve my client's problems. On the litigation side, it would definitely be seeing a lot of hard work pay off with results that make my clients happy.

What are your other interests in addition to law? 
My family and friends are a top priority. In my spare time, I enjoy golf, running, travel, and professional sports.

Are you involved in your community? 
Extremely. I'm on the board of counselors at the University of Tampa which is just down the street from my office. I'm also active in the Tampa Chamber and the Hillsborough County Bar Association.