Harrison LLP: Where thoughtful planning leads to lasting legacies

Pictured: (Back row) Megan Jerome, Elizabeth Lindsey, Tiffany McKenzie, Kimberly Civins, Hayley Hall
(Front row) Jasmin Severino, Miranda Siegel, Kimberly Ader, Melissa Sprinkle

By Nikonie Brown-McManus, digital content associate

Harrison LLP has been redefining estate planning for more than two decades with a client-centered approach that blends expertise with thoughtful insights and exceptional service. Founded in 2003, Harrison LLP has grown a national presence while staying true to its core mission. With expertise in charitable planning, trusts and estates and tax law, the firm ensures that clients’ personal and financial legacies are carefully protected and thoughtfully planned.

What makes a private wealth firm like Harrison LLP different from other firms? Jasmin Severino, senior associate, shares: “Our firm is specialized in estate planning, which touches various aspects of a client’s life. We deal with business planning, real estate succession and taxation. Most importantly, we know how to provide comprehensive planning and empathetic conversations when it comes to complex family issues. When we work on our clients’ planning, we are not just drafting documents. We are providing guidance in the most intimate and foundational decisions for the client’s family.”

Harrison LLP stands out for its expertise and the number of women attorneys in its Atlanta office. Women attorneys make up most of the firm’s team, an uncommon distinction in the estate planning, family and tax law sectors. “I think it’s becoming more commonplace, particularly in the estate planning community, which is very refreshing,” says Hayley Hall, partner. “As the mother of two girls, I’m honored to be a part of a law firm that sets such an impressive example of female achievement, and I’m thankful to be surrounded by so many accomplished women who also prioritize maintaining a fulfilling work-life balance.”

This dynamic fosters a highly collaborative work environment where different perspectives drive solutions. “There is no glass ceiling here. At every level of experience and achievement, the people on the next rung up the ladder are committed to nurturing the younger, less experienced professionals,” Kim Martin, partner, says.

For some women clients, working with women attorneys can also provide a sense of understanding and trust. Estate planning often involves deeply personal decisions, and having advisors who understand women’s financial concerns can make a meaningful difference. “While every client is unique, women often take a more relational, long-term and values-driven approach to planning,” says Tiffany McKenzie, partner and board member of the Community Foundation.

Melissa Sprinkle, counsel, adds: “We work with clients old and young, but there is, of course, a natural tendency to work with older generations. Given generational differences, it is not uncommon that we will work with a widow whose husband handled all aspects of their finances before his passing. It can be incredibly overwhelming for them. It is so fulfilling to help navigate the issues that arise, and I believe that my presence, as a woman, makes elderly women feel more at ease and perhaps less embarrassed for their uncertainty about how to move forward.”

Harrison LLP has created an environment where attorneys can thrive, learn and develop their expertise. The emphasis on mentorship ensures that knowledge and experience are continually passed down, strengthening the firm’s foundation for future generations. “I’ve had exceptional mentors, both male and female, throughout my career as an estate planning attorney, and being able to incorporate varying styles and approaches to practicing has been invaluable to my progression as an estate planner,” Hayley Hall says.

Additionally, participation in programs like the Philanthropic Advisors Leadership Institute (PALI) helps attorneys incorporate philanthropic giving into their services. For Tiffany McKenzie, PALI has been instrumental in enhancing her ability to help clients achieve their charitable goals: “Through PALI, I’ve gained deeper expertise in complex charitable giving strategies, tax-efficient philanthropy and structuring gifts to align with clients’ values and financial objectives. This advanced training allows me to offer more tailored solutions, ensuring that my clients’ legacies have a lasting impact while maximizing benefits for both their families and the causes they care about.”

With experience comes wisdom, and the attorneys at Harrison LLP are committed to supporting the next generation of professionals in estate, tax, family and fiduciary litigation law. Some of them share their advice:

“Be a generalist before you try to become a specialist. There is no substitute for a solid grounding in the fundamentals.” – Kim Martin

“Build confidence in your expertise. Estate and tax law require precision and deep knowledge, so invest in continuous learning. The more confident you are in your expertise, the more effectively you can advocate for clients.” – Tiffany McKenzie

“Jump in. We need more people doing this meaningful work. Find a firm that feels like home and build from there.” – Jasmin Severino

With a commitment to expertise and client-first service, Harrison LLP continues to redefine what it means to plan for the future, ensuring that every legacy, whether personal or philanthropic, is built with care, intention and purpose.