James Harris is the founding partner of The Harris Law Office, PLLC and has represented taxpayers in property tax related matters for over a decade. James’s current practice focuses on commercial property tax litigation, property tax appeals, and valuation disputes, including representing commercial taxpayers in administrative hearings and arbitrations throughout Texas. James is also a registered property tax consultant and advises clients on a wide variety of matters, including property tax planning, exemptions, and special appraisals.
James has an extensive background in real estate valuation. James received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance cum laude from Texas A&M University. After graduation, he enrolled in Texas A&M’s Master of Real Estate program, one of the premier real estate programs in the nation, where he received his Master of Real Estate degree. James went on to earn his juris doctor degree cum laude from South Texas College of Law in Houston, Texas. While in law school, James continued to represent taxpayers in property tax appeals and clerked for two of the top property tax law firms in Texas.
James is a contributing member of the Texas Association of Property Tax Professionals (“TAPTP”), an organization formed to promote and support a property tax system that will preserve, protect, and defend the rights of taxpayers. James helps educate the next wave of property tax professionals by serving as an instructor for TAPTP’s class on property tax law and appraisal.
James is also highly involved in property tax related legislation. James serves as General Counsel to Citizens For Appraisal Reform (“CFAR”), an organization consisting of taxpayers and property tax professionals that is committed to promoting fairness within the Texas property tax appeal system. Through his work with CFAR, James has helped draft several significant bills that became law in the 2017, 2019, and 2021 legislative sessions. James has significant experience working with lobbyists, meeting with members of the legislature, and testifying before legislative committees to help improve the property tax system.
Education
- South Texas College of Law
- Juris Doctor 2015, cum laude
- Texas A&M University
- B.A. Finance, cum laude 2007
- Master of Real Estate 2009