Cookerly Public Relations recently interviewed four Galleria Tenants on behalf of Childress Klein.
Meet our friend and long-term tenant, Harry Bassler.
Harry Bassler, Crim & Bassler
1. How long have you been a tenant?
Over 26 years – since December 1, 1988.
2. How many employees do you have?
Our firm has 19 people: eight lawyers, nine staff members and two temporary employees.
3. What does your firm do?
Our trial lawyers are among the best. While we handle a range of cases, from personal injury to automobile liability defense and construction defects, among others, we have specialized expertise in insurance liability defense. That means we are engaged by insurance companies to defend people who have been sued. Our firm has decades of experience handling these types of cases and a reputation for achieving favorable outcomes for clients.
4. Why is the Cumberland area and Atlanta Galleria a good place for you to do business?
We looked at several different parts of Atlanta when deciding where to locate our firm permanently. The most important factor was proximity to the many court houses in the area. We regularly handle cases across metro Atlanta, and Atlanta Galleria allows us to get just about anywhere within 30 to 45 minutes. We also spend a lot of time at our office, so it’s important to have an attractive, comfortable space. Atlanta Galleria met all of these needs, which is why we’ve been happy tenants for more than 26 years.
5. What Atlanta Galleria amenity do you use the most? (gym, restaurants, etc.)
I’d have to say the Georgian Club. In fact, my son’s wedding reception dinner was held there. It’s a
great perk for Atlanta Galleria tenants.
6. What are your thoughts on economic development in the Cumberland area and future growth?
We’ve seen significant growth in this area since moving in, including construction of several office buildings. The Braves’ move is obviously a big deal for this area, and I’m hopeful it will attract even more people to the area.
7. What business successes or milestones have you achieved lately?
I’m very proud of our firm’s longevity and track record of success. We’ve been in the same office space since 1988, and I believe that’s a reflection of our stability and commitment to clients.
8. What challenges are you confronting?
The practice of law is changing significantly. We used to take a lot more cases to trial, but now many are mediated instead. People and organizations are resolving more matters outside of litigation. We are still an integral part of that process, but it’s different than taking a case to trial.
9. What does your office do to have fun together and build comradery?
Once a year we combine business and pleasure by taking an out-of-state trip together to do continuing legal education coursework. We’ve visited various places over the years, from San Diego
to New Orleans and St. Simons. It allows our attorneys to fulfill their legal requirements, but it’s also a good way to build stronger relationships with each other.
10. Do you have any interesting hobbies?
The closest thing to a hobby for me is my love of travel. I recently returned from a vacation in China, which marks the seventh continent I’ve visited. Yes, I’ve even been to Antarctica.
Note: We are looking to chat with millennials who are tenants in our buildings. Please email [email protected] for more information.