Law Practice
Jay M. Harris helps clients navigate complex land use and environmental laws and permitting procedures throughout Oregon, Washington, and California. He regularly works with planning departments at the local, county and municipal level, and represents clients before the administrative Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals and state trial and appellate courts. Jay’s practice area focuses on land use, real property, natural resources, and municipal law with an emphasis on complex developments, however, his experience encompasses many issues common to businesses, non-profits, and public entities in the west coast.
Prior to joining Tomasi, Jay was an accomplished attorney in Sacramento, California with a diverse practice in land use, real property, civil, business, and intellectual property. In California, he specialized in guiding complex developments through land use entitlements, the California Environmental Quality Act, water law, natural resources law, and litigation. He represented both private and public entities in a variety of forums and contexts, including negotiating a complex development agreements for the redevelopment of a former arena in Sacramento. He also helped multiple new businesses organize and develop strong branding and trademark portfolios.
In addition, Jay has knowledge and experience working civil, criminal, bankruptcy, and family law cases.
Education
Jay obtained a B.A. at Willamette University (2004) in International Studies with an East Asian focus and a minor in Chinese Studies. He obtained his J.D. and a certificate in International Legal Studies at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law (2010) where he graduated with distinction. At law school, Jay was a member of the Traynor Honor Society, a staff member of the Pacific McGeorge Global Business & Development Law Journal, and president of the Environmental Law Society.
Admissions
Jay is admitted to practice law in Oregon, Washington, California, and the United States District Courts for the Northern and Eastern Districts of California.