The POWER List: Charlie J. Harris Jr.

Seyferth Blumenthal & Harris, Kansas City

Charlie Harris’ tenacity as a defense attorney is best illustrated by his investigation of an employment-discrimination case that led to the downfall of the Jackson County sheriff.

An administrative assistant in the sheriff’s office alleged she’d been subjected to sexual harassment on the job and retaliation after she complained. Harris’ investigation, however, uncovered that the plaintiff had been involved in an ongoing romantic relationship with Jackson County Sheriff Mike Sharp.

The sheriff resigned in 2018 after depositions became public in which he and the administrative assistant admitted to the affair. The case soon was dismissed without any payment from the county.

In 2007, Harris became the first Black attorney to lead The Missouri Bar, where he helped to create three diversity seats for the board of governors to bring more women and people of color to the table. It was during his term as president that Harris moved from Berkowitz Oliver and became a name partner at Seyferth Blumenthal & Harris.

Harris earned his law degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1995.