Masashi Yahari, known in English adaptations as Larry Butz, is a supporting character in the anime series Ace Attorney. He is the oldest friend of protagonist Phoenix Wright and also knew Miles Edgeworth during their school years. Yahari first appears as Phoenix’s first client in a murder case, setting the stage for their enduring friendship. Throughout the series, he reappears in various episodes, often in unexpected circumstances and with a different occupation each time, reflecting his aimless but well-meaning nature.

His personality is characterized by a laid-back and easygoing demeanor, but he is easily overwhelmed by his emotions. He is quick to cry or become dramatic, especially when dealing with romantic relationships, which frequently end badly. Despite his overemotional tendencies, he is genuinely kind-hearted and loyal to his friends, though his impulsiveness and poor judgment often land him in trouble. He has a habit of stumbling into the middle of investigations, sometimes providing useful information unintentionally.

Yahari’s motivations are simple: he seeks love and stability, but his constant job-hopping and tendency to act without thinking prevent him from settling down. He works a series of short-lived jobs, including security guard, janitor, and artist, and occasionally adopts a pen name, Laurice Deauxnim, under which he writes books. His artistic pursuits, such as painting and writing, show a creative side, though his work is often mocked by others.

In the story, Yahari serves as comic relief and a link to Phoenix’s past. He is not directly involved in legal proceedings except as a witness or incidental figure, but his presence often highlights Phoenix’s more grounded and responsible nature. His key relationships are with Phoenix, whom he admires and relies on, and with Miles Edgeworth, whom he treats with a mix of awe and nervousness. He also develops brief romantic attachments to several female characters, but none last.

Over the course of the series, Yahari shows little significant character development; he remains essentially the same person from his first appearance to the later episodes. However, he consistently proves his loyalty, helping his friends when they need him despite his own flaws. His notable abilities include an uncanny knack for being in the wrong place at the wrong time, a talent for drawing and writing, and a persistent optimism that keeps him moving forward even after repeated failures.