Phil Elbert has over 40 years of litigation experience representing clients in high-stakes civil trials and appeals. Widely recognized for his skill in the courtroom, Phil has served as lead counsel in numerous complex cases, primarily on behalf of plaintiffs, securing millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. He has argued appeals in both state and federal courts, including landmark cases before the U.S. Courts of Appeals and the Tennessee Supreme Court. He notably served as lead counsel for the plaintiff/appellant in Maracich v. Spears, 133 S. Ct. 2191 (2013), presenting the case before the U.S. Supreme Court and successfully prosecuting it through remand.
Known for his strategic insight and tireless advocacy, Phil is frequently sought out by other attorneys for his counsel in challenging legal matters and is often called upon to take over complex cases at critical stages. His reputation as a relentless advocate for justice and client rights has earned him the respect of colleagues across the legal community.
In addition to his practice, Phil is a seasoned lecturer on trial strategy and legal developments. He has presented at continuing legal education programs for the Tennessee Bar Association, Lorman Educational Services, Barristers’ CLE Seminar Series, and the National Business Institute.
Professional & Civic Engagements
- American Bar Association
- American Association for Justice
- Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Tennessee Bar Association
- Tennessee Board of Law Examiners, District Investigating Committee
- Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association
- Board of Governors
- Board of Directors
- Circle of Advocates
- Lawyers Involved for Tennessee (LIFT)
- Voluntary State Senate Liaison
- Nashville Bar Association, Federal Court Committee, Fellow; Past Chairman
- National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Rocketship Education/Rocketship Public Schools, Tennessee Advisory Board
Thought Leadership
Presentations
- “Motion Practice to Win Your Case,” Tennessee Bar Association
- “The State of Pre-emption in Products Liability Practice,” Tennessee Bar Association
- “Trucking Litigation and D.O.T. Regulations in Tennessee,” Lorman Educational Services
- “Recent Developments in Tennessee Law,” Barristers’ CLE Seminar Series
- “Strategies for Working with Evidence at Trial and Ethics, Evidence and Experts,” The National Business Institute
Honors & Awards
• Recognized in Best Lawyers in America® for Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs and Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, 2023-Present
• Recognized in Mid-South Super Lawyers, 2023
• Recognized by the Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association (TTLA) as "Trial Lawyer of the Year", 2020
