Littler Mendelson, P.C. (Littler), the world’s largest employment and labor law firm representing management, has added Richard R. Harris as a shareholder to its Philadelphia office as the firm continues to expand its growing Mid-Atlantic presence.

“Rich’s depth of experience, coupled with his understanding of the needs and demands of employers in a variety of industries, make him a quality asset to Littler,” said Kristine Grady Derewicz, office managing shareholder of Littler’s Philadelphia office. “We are excited to welcome Rich to our team here in Philadelphia as we continue to serve our diverse client base.”

Harris, who joins Littler from Ogletree Deakins, represents management in a wide variety of employment litigation matters, including wrongful termination and promotion cases, discrimination claims (age, race, gender, disability, etc.), racial and sexual harassment claims and trade secret litigation. Harris has comprehensive litigation experience in representing corporations and individuals that are targets of civil and criminal government investigations. He has tried more than 50 jury trials in state and federal courts and is a recognized authority on trial advocacy.

Harris counsels employers with regard to litigation avoidance and assists employers to develop policies and programs in accordance with state and federal employment laws, as well as any immigration issues a business may face. His practice also includes conducting internal corporate investigations.

“As an employment litigation attorney, I've long admired Littler from afar,” said Harris. “I am thrilled to join the firm and to have the opportunity to serve clients in the most strategic ways possible, similar to how I have done in the past.”

Harris previously served on the Philadelphia Bar Association’s Board of Governors and the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. He was appointed by Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter to the Prison Board of Trustees. Harris has taught continuing legal education courses in trial advocacy, federal grand jury practice and business immigration.

He received his J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh and his B.A. from the University of Maryland where he was an NCAA scholar-athlete in football.

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