Harrison LLP Expands Nationwide Presence with New Office in California

Harrison LLP, a widely recognized national private wealth planning law firm, has recently announced the grand opening of its new office located in the San Francisco Bay Area. This strategic move officially transforms Harrison into a coast-to-coast operation, marking a significant achievement in its expansion efforts within the legal landscape.

The new office, which opened on August 4, 2025, is supported by a formidable team of 11 attorneys, previously associated with Barulich Dugoni Suttmann Cummins Law Group, Inc. (BDSC). This law firm has established itself as a prominent figure in California estate planning, known for its expertise in intricate estate planning, trust administration, and litigation. The incorporation of this talented team significantly enhances Harrison's capability, particularly in community property planning and fiduciary litigation, which are critical areas in the realms of estate planning and private wealth disputes.

Founded in 2003 in Chicago, Harrison LLP has witnessed rapid growth over the last five years, expanding its team size from 47 attorneys across four offices to over 100 attorneys in 12 locations nationally. Recent expansions in 2025 include openings in Washington, D.C., and Highland Park, Illinois. This consistent growth reflects the firm’s commitment to establishing itself as a leading national firm specializing in trusts and estates.

Matthew J. Madsen, the managing partner of Harrison LLP, emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating, "Our move into California represents a pivotal step in realizing our vision to serve clients in every location they consider home, thus honoring the trust clients and their advisors place in our capabilities."

With the strategic entry into California, Harrison is poised to strengthen its presence in one of the most influential legal markets in the country. The new office will be led by partners Chelsea J. Suttmann and James R. Cummins, both of whom have extensive experience in estate planning and litigation. Suttmann specializes in advising family businesses on estate planning and business succession, while Cummins focuses on representing fiduciaries and stakeholders in complex disputes.

In a collaborative statement, Suttmann and Cummins expressed their excitement about joining forces with Harrison LLP, stating, "Becoming part of Harrison LLP allows us to continue nurturing our local relationships while taking advantage of a national platform that offers profound insight into estate and tax law. We look forward to contributing to a team that aligns with our values and vision in private wealth planning."

The firm’s reputation in the legal field is further solidified by its impressive tally of 17 Fellows in the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), placing it among the top firms based on size. Recognition in the 2025 Chambers High Net Worth Guide features the firm in five markets and highlights ten Harrison partners recognized in Private Wealth Law and Family/Matrimonial High Net Worth categories. Furthermore, Harrison was acknowledged in the 2025 edition of Best Lawyers' Best Law Firms in various practice areas, including Trusts & Estates Law and Tax Law.

Harrison LLP invests significantly in talent development through comprehensive in-house training programs and contributions to notable national estate planning conferences and publications. The opening of the California office coincides with the firm’s upcoming "Harrison Helps Day of Giving" scheduled for September 10, aiming to address food insecurity through community partnerships across all twelve offices.

As Harrison LLP celebrates this milestone, its commitment to providing outstanding legal counsel and fostering enduring client relationships remains steadfast. This new California office is merely a component of the firm's expansive narrative—one that encapsulates its mission to deliver cohesive private wealth solutions nationwide.

The new office is situated at 111 Anza Boulevard, Suite 200, Burlingame, CA 94010. For further details, please visit harrisonllp.com.