Warren David Harless

Warren David Harless is a Richmond, Virginia, partner and trial lawyer who represents corporations, closely held companies, and individuals in complex litigation. His practice covers contract claims, business torts, restrictive covenants, trade secrets, employment disputes, products liability, premises liability, and tort defense. He also advises clients on workplace matters and defends against discrimination, wrongful discharge, and hiring claims.

David earned a B.B.A. from the University of Kentucky in 1978 and a J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1981. After law school, he served as a clerk to Judge Glen M. Williams of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. This federal court experience strengthened his understanding of litigation strategy and trial procedure.

David’s representative work includes defending companies against business conspiracy, trade secret, interference with contract, wage, harassment, and wrongful discharge claims. He also handles disputes involving indemnification, fiduciary duties, and the allocation of liability. In employment matters, he assists executives and companies with compensation packages, benefits, exit strategies, severance agreements, and releases. He also serves as general legal counsel to the Capital Region Airport Commission.

Warren David Harless is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, the American Bar Foundation, and the Virginia Law Foundation. He previously served as president of the Virginia State Bar and the Bar Association of the City of Richmond. His professional recognition includes listings in The Best Lawyers in America, Chambers USA, and Virginia Super Lawyers. He has also taught trial advocacy and professionalism and lectured on business litigation, employment disputes, and trial practice.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Christian & Barton, LLP
• Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers
• Chair, Virginia State Bar
• Fellow, American Bar Foundation
• Fellow, Virginia Law Foundation

Licensed State

• Virginia

Education

• University of Virginia School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Kentucky
  Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)