Darlene Harris

Darlene Harris is an experienced civil rights and intellectual property attorney dedicated to empowering communities and protecting their legal rights. As the founder of Power In Protection Law, she leads a Black-owned, women-owned law firm that advocates for individuals and businesses across North Carolina. With more than a decade of legal experience, Harris specializes in civil rights litigation, police misconduct, trademark registration, and business formation. Her dual focus on justice and brand protection ensures that both personal liberties and creative enterprises are well defended.

Harris earned her J.D. from North Carolina Central University and holds a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Her legal foundation is rooted in both courtroom advocacy and community engagement.

Harris began her legal career focused on criminal defense and civil rights, with a strong emphasis on cases involving police brutality. Her experience includes representing the NAACP and standing up for individuals mistreated by law enforcement. Today, she continues to hold officers accountable for civil rights violations while also helping entrepreneurs secure their brands through trademark protection and legal counsel.

Harris Firm supports mission-driven and minority-owned startups with comprehensive legal services, including trademark registration, contract drafting, and business formation. Led by a former DJ and entertainment industry insider, the firm brings a creative, real-world perspective to intellectual property law, especially when representing artists, creators, startups, and innovative brands.

Darlene Harris has received wide recognition for her work, including being named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers, one of the Top 10 Best Attorneys in North Carolina, and a Top 40 Under 40 honoree. She also serves as the President of the Charlotte Women’s Bar and sits on the Advisory Board of Gardner-Webb University.

Whether advocating in the courtroom or protecting a client’s brand, Harris ensures her clients understand the power of protection. Her mission is to equip each client with the tools and legal strategies needed to assert their rights, grow confidently, and achieve lasting impact.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Power In Protection Law Firm
• Member, North Carolina Bar Association
• President, Charlotte Women’s Bar

Licensed State

• North Carolina

Education

• North Carolina Central University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of North Carolina
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges