Alabamians for Legal Reform, a professional advocacy organization focused on promoting fairness and balance within Alabama’s civil justice system, announced Wednesday that governmental affairs veteran Harrison Proctor will serve as its full-time executive director. Proctor, a Birmingham native and experienced governmental affairs professional, will lead the group’s policy, advocacy and grassroots efforts statewide.
“An unpredictable civil justice system can have a negative impact on communities and adversely affect local jobs, economic growth and other quality of life issues,” Proctor said. “A fair and consistent civil justice system strengthens local economies, protects hardworking Alabamians, and provides the stability local businesses need to invest in their communities. I am honored to lead ALR and look forward to working with leaders across Alabama to ensure our civil justice system promotes fairness and balance for everyone.”
Before joining ALR, Proctor served as counsel for government affairs at Protective Life in Birmingham and Washington, D.C. and worked on state and federal issues. He holds a law degree and MBA from the University of Alabama.
Jeremy Walker, ALR Board member, said Proctor’s experience and temperament make him uniquely suited to lead the organization.
“Harrison brings a calm, measured approach and a passion for helping Alabama,” Walker said. “His leadership will help ensure our state continues to foster an environment in which small businesses, local communities, and hard-working Alabamians can succeed.”
The advocacy group was created by a number of small businesses, trade associations, grassroots organizations, and other stakeholders concerned about the economic challenges posed by lawsuit abuse in Alabama, the organization shared.
In his new role, Proctor will lead ALR’s advocacy efforts beginning with the Alabama Legislature’s 2026 regular session, which is scheduled to convene in January, while continuing to expand the organization’s grassroots coalition and presence in communities across the state.
D. Franklin III, ALR stakeholder, emphasized the real-world consequences of lawsuit abuse.
“Lawsuit abuse creates real costs that ripple through Alabama’s economy,” Franklin said. “Every dollar a small business must spend on avoidable legal fees or higher insurance premiums is a dollar that cannot be used in a local community to hire employees, improve benefits, expand operations, or support the local economy. Harrison understands these challenges and will be a strong advocate for a balanced system that treats everyone fairly.”
