Brown Counsel

1 Best Lawyers award

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Awarded Practice Areas

Appellate Practice Commercial Litigation Litigation - Mergers and Acquisitions

Biography

A seasoned litigator and certified mediator, Phil Brown handles complex disputes—in business, trade secret, employment, zoning, security and appellate cases—with creative and effective strategies that have won him the respect of other attorneys and the appreciation of his wide-ranging clients, both plaintiffs and defendants. Since his career began over 20 years ago at the internationally recognized law firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, Phil's skills have helped him achieve success in high-stakes cases in trial and appellate courts and before state boards and state/federal agencies. Whatever situation is presented, Phil keenly analyzes problems and devises creative yet practical solutions that work to resolve complicated legal issues. His lengthy track record of success testifies to those skills. He is also adept at evaluating potential cases for clients, monitoring and evaluating current cases handled by other counsel and acting as a consultant for clients in ongoing negotiations and litigation.
Brown Counsel

1 Best Lawyers award

Brown Counsel logo

Overview

  • English

  • Northeastern University, J.D., graduated 1988
  • New York University, MA, graduated 1985
  • Haverford College, BA, graduated 1983

  • Massachusetts, Massachusetts Bar Association

  • Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission ("PERAC") - Chairman
  • English
  • Massachusetts, Massachusetts Bar Association
  • Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission ("PERAC") - Chairman
  • Northeastern University, J.D., graduated 1988
  • New York University, MA, graduated 1985
  • Haverford College, BA, graduated 1983

Client Testimonials

Phil Brown is a consummate professional and master negotiator with keen attention to detail and a strategic ability to act creatively and critically. Above all, he is trustworthy and supportive, even in the most challenging circumstances. I have relied on Phil's expertise multiple times, including a corporate partnership dispute where he defended me against a corrupt partner and, most recently, a complicated case that involved seeking justice for my family. No matter how complex the issue may be, I know I can rely on Phil to show up with a plan to pursue a favorable resolution. I am genuinely grateful that I chose Phil Brown and Brown Counsel to represent me, and I know I will always have a trusted partner in Phil Brown.

I have used Phil Brown, Esq. as my primary legal counsel for well over a decade. Most fortunately, Phil is clearly the best attorney I’ve employed over the past 40+ years. I’ve used Phil extensively for strategic legal planning in litigation, contracts, and general business matters. Phil is extremely bright, keenly insightful, diplomatically direct, and does not try to run up billings employing unproductive legal maneuvers. It has been a genuine pleasure to have him as my valued counsel.

David Chase (Chase Venture Advisors LLC)

When confronted unexpectedly with the elimination of my professional position, I was fortunate to have Phil Brown’s experience and advice as a guide during the negotiations for my departure and severance. While it was critical to have Phil’s expertise at hand to determine that the terms of the agreement met and did not neglect legal rights and standards, it was just as important to have the benefit of his strategic perspective. He took unequivocally the position of my advocate, but also ensured that the negotiations would be successful… that reason prevailed over emotion, that expectations were realistic, grounded, and defensible. The process was no picnic, but it was not the painful, combative confrontation that so many people experience. I attribute much of that success to Phil’s availability to advise me whenever I needed reassurance, redirection, or a tactical tip. My position and the outcome were bolstered considerably by having an expert and compassionate resource in my court. I feel very fortunate.

He did so amazing and wonderful and never let me worry! He is so good at his job and performed wonderfully!

Phil and Amelia are both fantastic. Phil has a great ability to quickly understand your matter and begin a plan. The research they put into each case to ensure a positive outcome is above other firms I have had dealings with. Phil really makes the client feel like a member of his family with his caring and supportive messages. I would highly recommend Brown Counsel for any and all matters you may find yourself in need of a great law firm. I am well pleased with the results and negotiation practices to ensure you obtain what you are seeking. Please if you’re in any situation call them for the best results.

Mark Tango

WINDHAM, NH

Brilliant, compassionate, dependable and extremely thorough. I cannot say enough good things about Phil . I am extremely grateful for his professional support and guidance.

Marion R. Pattillo (Independent Veterinary Relief, LLC)

Phil efficiently navigated me to a favorable resolution in a complex and contentious partnership dispute. He is creative and proactive in his approach, with tremendous dedication and determination, whilst always being attentive to his Clients' needs and providing constant communication. Phil is committed, skilled and trustworthy. He provided me exceptional counsel, and I recommend him to anyone who is looking for a genuine professional to advocate on their behalf.

We found Philip Brown to be clear, concise, consistent and honourable. He responded quickly and provided exemplary service. I have no hesitation in recommending Philip Brown and we will certainly engage him in the future if the occasion arises.

Jeremy Kuo (WKT Company Limited)

Hong Kong

I faced an erroneous and illegitimate cross-state lawsuit threat last month based on some damage that occurred to jet skis me and some friends rented in Utah. The owner of the jet ski company tried to shake us down for over $10,000 for minor damage and threatened to sue for as much as $15,000 inclusive of down time. These claims were about 5x the actual costs incurred. Once I got back to Boston I consulted Phil, who provided great advice on how to proceed and the different remedies that I could pursue. In the end I settled with the jet ski company with a settlement agreement that Phil drafted for a fair amount. I had never been threatened with a lawsuit before, so having Phil's consultation proved invaluable in determining the right course of action and reaching a settlement.

Nick G

Boston, MA

Philip Brown is effective and responsive. He has excellent research and writing. He is capable of handling difficult opposing counsel and he handled my case in the Federal Court of Appeals.

Attorney Brown always has a complete grasp of all of the complex legal issues involved in a case, including subtle but important matters which may escape less savvy practitioners. He is a consummate student of the law and can express complicated arguments with great clarity.

Awards & Focus

Lawyer of the Year Badge - 2023 - Appellate Practice
Named "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers® for:
  • Appellate Practice, Boston (2023)
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 for work in:
  • Appellate Practice
  • Commercial Litigation
  • Litigation - Mergers and Acquisitions
Additional Areas of Practice:
  • Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
  • Litigation - Securities
  • Securities / Capital Markets Law
Special Focus:
  • Appellate
  • Business
  • Corporate
Awards:
  • Selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 in the fields of Appellate and Commercial Litigation
  • AV Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, highest rating given to attorneys
  • Selected as a Massachusetts Super Lawyer each year since its inception, an honor that recognizes him as a leader in the legal community.
  • Listed in Super Lawyers National Edition Corporate Counsel.

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