Michael E. Harman

Harman Claytor Corrigan & Wellman
Richmond

Title: Founding partner
Other legal specialties: Civil litigation, including trucking and professional liability cases
Birthplace: Roanoke
Education: University of Virginia, bachelor’s and law degrees
Spouse: Michelle C. Harman
Children: Ellis, Rilee and Elizabeth
Hobbies or pastimes: Boating and traveling
First job as a lawyer: Browder, Russell, Morris & Butcher
Fan of: Seattle Seahawks and U.Va. sports
Favorite vacation spot: The Keys and Smith Mountain Lake
Recently read book: I am a mystery book junkie. A recent favorite is “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins.
Career mentors: For litigation: Jimmy Morris of Morris & Morris. My first day on the job at Browder, Russell, Morris and Butcher, I went with Jimmy to try a case in the Stafford County Circuit Court. Watching him in action was the beginning of my learning what it takes to be an effective trial attorney. Jimmy always stressed doing things the right way, the importance of one’s reputation and that preparation was critical. Simply put, I was privileged to learn from one of the best trial lawyers Virginia has ever seen.

John McCammon and John OBrion have been great mentors for my ADR work. McCammon is a great teacher of the art of ADR, and OBrion, a former partner, longtime friend and original member of The McCammon Group, has been a great role model. Their preparation and patience have made them ultra-successful.

How did you become involved in ADR?
Years ago, two lawyer friends asked me to mediate a small personal injury case. I found it to be enjoyable and rewarding. It’s satisfying to be a part of an effective problem-solving experience that substantially reduces the parties’ expenses and costs.