Russell serves as the managing partner for FordHarrison's Memphis office and is known for his extreme responsiveness and excellent communication with clients.
Employers appreciate his aggressive strategy and creative problem-solving techniques when defending them in litigation and resolving their day-to-day employment issues. Russell’s practice primarily includes defending employers against claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wrongful discharge, restrictive covenants, and wage and hour violations. He also closely works with employers to counsel them through complex issues governing the employment relationship, including ADA and FMLA leave and accommodation requests, terminations, trade secret and non-compete obligations, wage and hour audits, and unfair labor practice complaints. His clients represent a number of industries, such as residential services, manufacturing, packaging, logistics, insurance, healthcare, property management, staffing agencies, and retail.
With licenses in Tennessee and Mississippi, Russell regularly handles matters throughout the Mid-South. He also provides a national presence for his clients; he has defended claims throughout the country and lawsuits in a number of jurisdictions, including Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, Texas and Maryland. In addition, he has successfully handled appeals before the United States Courts of Appeals for the Sixth and Eleventh Circuits and the United States Supreme Court.
Recent unsolicited comments from Russell’s clients include the following:
- “I really appreciate that I never have to chase you for updates. Thanks!”
- [After a settlement] “That’s great news! Well done! This is a great result for us, but I know y’all wanted to crush them in action. Next time.”
- “Thanks again for your good help at the arbitration hearing earlier this week. The feedback I received from the team was that you did a fantastic job.”
Having worked in an in-house capacity, Russell knows through personal experience how clients’ legal and HR departments operate in order to effectively address their needs. A Memphis native, Russell is active in the local community. He has served on the board of nonprofits in Memphis, including serving as the President of a 501(c)(3) organization.