The Financier · Character

Harper Steger

Cowperwood's elegant, feline defense attorney, who calculates legal risk with the same cool detachment he brings to every human relationship.

supporting

Also known as Steger, Mr. Steger, Harper

First appearance: xiv

As a supporting figure in The Financier, Harper Steger is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Cowperwood's lawyer; Frank visits his home socially.

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Steger moves through Philadelphia's courtrooms and private offices with perfect manners and no illusions, drawn to Cowperwood as the most fascinating client he has ever served. He is subtle, indifferently cruel, and motivated less by loyalty than by the conviction that proximity to genius will make him richer and more conspicuous. As the legal net tightens, his counsel becomes the thin line between Cowperwood's freedom and the penitentiary.

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See Harper Steger in xiv

Character Web

45 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Cowperwood's inner circle
Extended cast and background figures
Minor family and clerks

+40 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

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In the story

Harper Steger appears across 18 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

The Financier's Domestic and Financial Expansion
Cowperwood's lawyer; Frank visits his home socially.
XXIX
Steger, Cowperwood's lawyer, accompanies him to appeal to Stener and offers legal advice.
XXXI
Cowperwood's lawyer, who advises on legal strategies and the risks of a trial.
XXXIV
Cowperwood's lawyer; arranges for his client to appear before a warrant can be served and secures bail.
The Trial Approaches
Cowperwood's lawyer, optimistic about winning the case or reversing a conviction on appeal.
The Trial Begins
Cowperwood's lawyer, looking shrewd and canny, challenges jurors and moves to quash the indictment.
XLI
Cowperwood's defense attorney, objects frequently to Shannon's questioning and engages in bitter wrangles with the prosecution.
Chapter XLII
Cowperwood's defense attorney, who presents the case that Cowperwood is a victim of circumstances and cross-examines witnesses to highlight favorable points.
XLIII
Cowperwood's defense attorney, who addresses the jury first, arguing that Cowperwood was a legitimate agent and a political scapegoat.
Chapter XLIV
Arranges Cowperwood's comfortable treatment in jail, confers with Sheriff Jaspers, and promises an appeal with a certificate of reasonable doubt.
XLV
Cowperwood's lawyer, who arranges for him to see business visitors and handles legal proceedings.
Chapter XLVII
Cowperwood's lawyer, constantly with him in court as they navigate bankruptcy petitions and legal proceedings.
XLVIII
Argues Cowperwood's appeal before the Supreme Court and advises on further legal options.
Chapter XLIX
Negotiates with Sheriff Jaspers to arrange a delayed surrender for Cowperwood until Monday morning.
Chapter L
Steger brings news about the sheriff's delay and handles legal matters for Cowperwood.
LII
Cowperwood's lawyer, makes a final plea for leniency, arguing Cowperwood's innocence and financial ability.
LVII
Works on Cowperwood's pardon; refuses further payment from Cowperwood.
LVIII
Arranges the surprise pardon and accompanies Cowperwood upon his release.

Chapter companion notes

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See Harper Steger in xiv

See Harper Steger in The Financier's Domestic and Financial Expansion