Stites & Harbison, PLLC

History

Stites & Harbison traces its origins to 1832, evolving through mergers and growth over nearly two centuries. The firm's founders are not publicly named, but it has become one of the largest law firms in the Southeast, with over 200 attorneys and 11 offices across six states. The firm is structured as a partnership, governed by a Chair and a Management Committee, though individual leaders are not all publicly listed.

Business Model

As a full-service law firm, Stites & Harbison generates revenue through billable hours and flat-fee arrangements across a wide range of legal services. The firm's business model relies on deep specialization in key practice areas, a partnership structure that incentivizes senior attorneys, and a commitment to client service embodied in its Ten Imperatives of Client Service. The firm also leverages memberships in international legal networks to serve global clients.

Practice Areas

The firm's core capabilities include Intellectual Property & Technology, Corporate Finance & Securities Offerings, Business Services, Litigation, Government Regulatory, and Health Law. The Intellectual Property & Technology Group is particularly strong, with attorneys holding technical degrees in engineering, biology, life sciences, chemistry, and computer science, and maintaining an office in Alexandria, Virginia near the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. The Corporate Finance group handles IPOs, debt offerings, private placements, and governance compliance under Sarbanes-Oxley. The Litigation group serves as lead counsel in over 30 states and has argued before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Market Position

Stites & Harbison is consistently recognized in legal rankings: Chambers USA, U.S. News – Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms," and Best Lawyers in America. In 2026, 40 attorneys were named Kentucky Super Lawyers. The firm is also one of the largest in the Southeast, competing with other regional full-service firms such as Frost Brown Todd and Dinsmore & Shohl. Its membership in Lex Mundi and The Harmonie Group enhances its ability to handle cross-border matters.

Community and Culture

The firm emphasizes community involvement, with many attorneys serving on boards of economic development organizations, universities, and charitable groups. It has been repeatedly named a Best Place to Work in Kentucky, ranking in the top 10 in 2026 for the 12th time, reflecting a strong internal culture and employee satisfaction.