Position: Partner

Joshua L. Schwartz

A prolific trial attorney and counselor, Josh is a partner in the firm’s Litigation and Employment practice groups working primarily in employment counseling and litigation, labor law and workers’ compensation.

He represents public and private employers in litigation matters, administrative agency investigations, labor arbitrations and commercial litigation.

Employment Counseling and Litigation
Josh protects employers inside and outside of the courtroom on issues related to employee discipline and termination, workplace harassment, noncompetition and non-solicitation, whistleblower claims, wage-and-hour compliance, and medical leaves of absence. He also chairs the firm’s Workers’ Compensation practice, using his knowledge to guide employers in managing workers’ compensation claims, proactively addressing safety protocols, and offering risk management advice. Throughout his career, Josh has presented at numerous seminars and groups on employee safety, harassment, medical marijuana, and other compliance and risk management topics.

Labor
Josh provides clients with NLRB/union organizing training and counsels employers through union organizing campaigns. Josh also represents a number of unionized workplaces and is an experienced advocate during contract negotiation and grievance arbitration. He is also a trained and certified mediator.

Higher Education Litigation and Counseling
Josh provides comprehensive counseling and training to administrators on student rights and disciplinary issues governed by federal and state laws, including Title IX, Title VI, the ADA, FERPA and others. He assists colleges in creating Title IX-compliant sexual misconduct policies, conducts internal investigations, and offers guidance on faculty matters. Josh has also represented higher education institutions in court and in legal proceedings before the Department of Education Office of Civil Rights.

General Litigation
Josh handles a broad spectrum of commercial litigation, intellectual property/patent litigation, and appellate litigation matters. He has experience representing clients in complex commercial disputes regarding contract disputes, business ownership issues, non-compete/non-solicitation agreement matters, and more. As chair of the firm’s Appellate Practice, Josh brings extensive experience in handling appeals, including preservation of issues during and after trial, drafting appellate briefs, and advocacy through oral argument.

Josh lives in Manheim Township with his wife, Franklin & Marshall College professor Carey Faulkner, and their two children, Eli and Casey. He can also be seen performing in community theater productions and cabarets throughout central Pennsylvania.

RECOGNITION
  • Central Penn Business Journal (Forty Under Forty, 2015)
MEMBERSHIP
  • American Arbitration Association, Panel Member Arbitrator
  • Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce Workers’ Compensation and Employment Committees
PRESENTATIONS
  • “OSHA and Workers’ Compensation: Strategies for Defending and Resolving Workplace Complaints”, 42nd Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2025)
  • “Ethics and Attorney-Client Privilege for HR Professionals: Navigating Business Ethics, the Attorney-Client Relationship, and the HR Professionals’ Role in Legal Matters”, 42nd Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2025)
  • “Due Process for Public Sector Employees”, Pennsylvania Water Environment Association Webinar (March 2025)
  • “Are Workplace DEI Programs Legal? Assessing DEI in 2024”, 41st Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2024)
  • “Employee Handbook Workshop,” Lancaster Chamber (August 2023)
  • “Use of Surveillance in Workers’ Compensation and Employment Cases,” 40th Annual Employment Law Seminar (May 2023)
  • Lancaster Bar Association’s Employment Law Summit (November 2022)
  • Lancaster Chamber’s Employee Handbook Updates: Key Policies and Trends (August 2022)
  • “Anatomy of a Worker’s Compensation Case,” 39th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2022)
  • “Employee Handbooks,” 39th Annual Employment Law Seminar (May 2022)
  • “OSHA, COVID-Related EEOC Claims and ADA Violations”, Lancaster SHRM (May 2021)
  • “Ask the Attorney: Return to Work”, Lancaster Chamber (May 2021)
  • “NLRB Updates under the Biden Administration”, 38th Annual Employment Law Seminar (May 2021)
  • “Employer Obligations under OSHA and the Workers’ Compensation Act”, 38th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2021)
  • “Drafting Employee Handbooks”, 38th Annual Employment Law Seminar (May 2021)
  • “COVID-19 Vaccines: The Impact on the Hospitality Industry”, webinar (January 2021)
  • “OSHA and Workers’ Compensation”, 37th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (September 2020)
  • “Medical Marijuana”, 37th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (September 2020)
  • “Getting Your Business Back to Business Webinar Part 2”, Barley Snyder Webinar Series (May 2020)
  • “Getting Your Business Back to Business Webinar Part 1”, Barley Snyder Webinar Series (April 2020)
  • “Top 10 HR Myths”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2019)
  • “Workers’ Compensation Litigation: Understanding the Injured Worker’s Day(s) in Court”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2019)
  • “Legal Issues Encountered During the Hiring Process”, 2018 Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (May 2018)
  • “Workers’ Compensation: The Role of the Independent Medical Examiner”, 2018 Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (May 2018)
  • “Non-Compete Litigation and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act”, 2018 Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (May 2018)
  • “2018 Employee Handbook Workshop”, Lancaster Chamber (March 2018)
  • “Navigating Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Act and the Creation of a New Protected Class”, 2017 Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (April 2017)
  • “Workers’ Compensation: The Panel Physician”, 2017 Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (April 2017)
  • “Common Legal Issues for New Businesses”, PA Treasury’s Small Business Initiative at York College (October 2016)
  • “Workplace Bullying: Applying School Law in an Employment Context”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2016)
  • “Hand, Wrist, & Elbow Disorders in the Workers’ Compensation Population”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2016)
  • “Workers’ Compensation: The Role of Medical Evidence in Litigated Cases”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (April 2015)
  • “Legal Compliance Issues Related to Workplace Safety”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (April 2015)
  • “Workers’ Compensation: The Role of the Occupational Medicine Physician”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2014)
  • “Managing Injured and Disabled Employees: FMLA, ADA, and the Workers’ Compensation Act”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2014)
  • “Workers’ Compensation: Aggravations of Degenerative Conditions”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2013)
  • “Preparing for “the Inevitable”: Evaluation, Discipline, & Discharge”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2013)
  • “Workers’ Compensation: Repetitive Injuries”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2012)
  • Pennsylvania Employment Law Deskbook, contributing author
CLERKSHIPS
  • Law Clerk to the Honorable Jane R. Roth, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit (2008-2009)
  • Law Clerk to the Honorable Paul S. Diamond, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (2005-2006)

Stephanie E. DiVittore

Stephanie is a dedicated member of the firm’s Litigation and Finance & Creditors’ Rights practice groups, known for her prompt and attentive service, and unwavering commitment to securing the best possible outcomes for her clients.

Stephanie concentrates her practice in the area of litigation, with a focus on commercial, banking, special counsel, tax assessment and land use law, as well as commercial workout litigation. She has handled commercial litigation on behalf of businesses across a variety of industries, banks, school districts, insurance companies, municipalities and municipal authorities. Her experience in commercial litigation and land use law involves business disputes, lender liability, construction claims, tax assessment appeals, zoning disputes, discrimination and Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) claims.

Stephanie has also represented various financial institutions with respect to collection matters, as well as litigation over commercial lending transactions and lender liability actions.

Stephanie has tried cases in front of federal and state courts, as well as in front of administrative panels such as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Environmental Hearing Board, Board of Claims, Public Utility Commission, Unemployment Compensation Board of Review, Support Masters, Custody Conciliators and Divorce Masters.

While she pursued her law degree at Villanova University, she worked as a psychiatric assistant for care of children and teens at a Lebanon County inpatient behavioral health care facility.

MEMBERSHIPS
  • Middle District of Pennsylvania Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, member

  • Dauphin County Bar Association

  • Lebanon Valley Conservancy, Inc.

  • Solid Waste Association of North America, former member

  • Pennsylvania Planning Association, former member

PUBLICATIONS
  • Centerior Service Company v. Acme Scrap Iron; Metal Corporation: Cost Recovery or Contribution in the Sixth Circuit?

  • Fundamental Change In Waste Disposal Law: The Supreme Court Issues A Decision Making It Much Easier For Government To Require Waste Disposal At Specific Public Landfills Despite Increased Costs To Consumer

  • Talkin’ Trash – What Happens Here, Stays Here

  • Who Decides What Constitutes a Public Charity? (January 2013)

PRESENTATIONS
  • A View from the Bench: Practical Advice for Bankers on Pennsylvania and Federal Bankruptcy Litigation, LendiCon 2021 (April 2021)

  • Stay at Home, Harrisburg Regional Chamber; CREDC Webinar (May 2020)

RECOGNITION
  • The Best Lawyers in America®, Litigation – Municipal (2024, 2025, 2026), Litigation – Real Estate (2025, 2026)

Joshua J. Knapp

Josh is a partner in the firm’s Litigation and Creditors’ Rights Practice Groups and leads the firm’s injunction practice. He is a commercial litigator, equally adept at negotiating a common sense solution, navigating alternative dispute resolution (mediation or arbitration), or advocating his clients’ interests at all stages and manner of litigation. Josh handles both prosecution and defense of emergency/special and preliminary injunctions. He has tried cases in state, federal and military courts.

Commercial Litigation
Represents businesses and individuals in contract, collections, judgment enforcement and business tort litigation, and restrictive covenant cases involving non-competition, non-solicitation and non-disclosure agreements.

Real Estate Litigation
Represents commercial and residential property owners, developers and landlords in lease disputes, evictions, deed and restrictive covenant actions.

Construction Litigation
Represents owners, contractors, subcontractors, architects and engineers in construction contract and design/defect matters.

Casualty and General Liability Litigation
Represents businesses and property owners and in personal injury, indemnity and premises liability actions, and leading the defense of premises liability claims for a major Pennsylvania health care institution.

Prior to joining the firm, Josh served as Captain and Trial Counsel with the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps and as Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, where he prosecuted misdemeanor and felony criminal trials. Prior to college, Josh served as an Airborne Ranger and rifle team leader with 3rd Ranger Battalion and the 25th Infantry Division (Light) Hawaii, deploying for Operation Uphold Democracy and the subsequent U.N. Mission in Haiti in 1995, and for training to Australia and the Republic of Korea.

MEMBERSHIPS
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association

  • Lancaster Bar Association

PRESENTATIONS
  • “Understanding Complex Lease Provisions,” Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (June 2023)
  • Podcast Interview with Mark Bowden, Author of Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern War, Barley Snyder Legal Dose (linked below) (2022)
  • “Doing Business with Coronavirus: Managing Tenant Relationships and Protecting Landlord Interests,” CCIM Webinar (May 2020)
  • Managing and Protecting Your Online Reputation, ABC Keystone Seminar (October 2018) 
  • Hot Topics in Commercial Loan Workouts and Restructuring, Lendicon 2017 (March 2017)
  • Sheriff Sales and Tax Sales; What do you really need to know? Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar (March 2016)
  • Deeds in Lieu, Short Sales and Deficiency Judgments, Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar (March 2015)
OTHER PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
  • Trial Counsel, U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, Ft. Belvoir, Virginia

  • Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria, Virginia

  • Airborne Ranger/Rifle Team Leader, Fort Benning, Georgia and Schofield Barracks, Hawaii

Joseph R. Falcon, III

Joe Falcon is an intellectual property lawyer with deep knowledge in patent, trademark, trade secret and copyright law. As a registered U.S. Patent and Trademark Office patent attorney, Joe is recognized for his comprehensive understanding of intellectual property rights and his ability to provide strategic legal counsel to clients in diverse industries.

With an unwavering passion for the intersection of law and innovation, Joe focuses on all aspects of patent and trademark law, including prosecution, licensing, litigation, validity and infringement studies, and IP-related business counseling. He is a valued member of the Intellectual Property and Litigation practice groups, leveraging his skills and knowledge to assist clients at every stage of their intellectual property journey.

Joe views himself as not just a lawyer but a problem-solver who brings clarity, strategy, and a genuine passion for bringing innovation to the table – all with the goal of helping you achieve your vision while keeping your intellectual property secure.

Joe’s clientele ranges from early-stage startups to established companies, and he is known for developing and commercializing patent portfolios tailored to meet the specific business needs of his clients. He works closely with his clients, understanding their goals and helping them navigate the complexities of intellectual property law to protect their innovations and maximize their market advantage. Joe also partners with clients to align their intellectual property strategies with long-term business objectives, helping position them for sustained growth and competitive success.

Throughout his career, Joe has consistently demonstrated his ability to handle a wide range of complex intellectual property cases. He brings a meticulous approach to protecting the intellectual property rights of his clients. Some notable examples of his work include:

  • Asserting Patent Rights Against Willful Infringers: Joe has built a strong reputation for vigorously asserting patent rights on behalf of his clients in highly competitive marketplaces. He has successfully navigated intricate legal landscapes to hold those accountable who willfully infringe on his clients’ patents. Joe’s strategic and assertive approach ensures that his clients’ innovations are safeguarded and receive the recognition and compensation that they deserve.
  • Expert Counsel for Startups: Recognizing the unique challenges faced by startups, Joe provides invaluable guidance on ownership and procurement of patent and trademark rights. His deep understanding of intellectual property law and extensive experience allows him to advise startups on how to strategically protect their innovations while considering budgetary constraints. Joe’s insightful counsel helps startups establish a strong foundation for growth and navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property.
  • Crafting Research and Development Agreements: Joe is able to craft comprehensive research and development agreements that address the intricate issues of IP ownership. He works closely with clients to ensure that their rights are protected, both during the collaborative research process and in the subsequent commercialization of innovations. By drafting well-defined agreements, Joe helps his clients avoid disputes and maintain control over their intellectual property assets.
  • Patent Due Diligence in International Acquisitions: In the context of large-scale international acquisitions, Joe’s expertise in conducting thorough patent due diligence is an invaluable resource to clients. He meticulously examines the intellectual property portfolios of target companies, assessing the strength and scope of their patents. By identifying any potential risks or opportunities, Joe provides his clients with the information needed to make informed decisions during the acquisition process, mitigating future legal challenges and maximizing the value of the transaction.
  • Developing Robust IP Portfolios: Understanding the importance of proactively protecting clients’ intellectual property, Joe specializes in developing robust IP portfolios. He works closely with clients to identify and capture innovative ideas, strategically filing patents and trademarks to ensure comprehensive coverage. By actively monitoring the competitive landscape, Joe helps his clients stay ahead of potential design-arounds, effectively safeguarding their intellectual property assets and maintaining a competitive edge.
  • Trademark Enforcement: Joe has successfully represented clients in protecting their trademark rights against domestic and foreign entities in the United States and abroad through a network of foreign associates.
  • Post-Grant Proceedings: Joe is well-versed in post-grant proceedings, which provide an avenue for challenging the validity or scope of existing patents. Whether it involves defending the validity of a patent, challenging the validity of a competitor’s patent, or seeking to correct and enhance the scope of an existing patent, Joe’s unique perspective ensures that clients receive comprehensive representation and guidance throughout the post-grant proceeding process.
  • Copyright: Whether it’s registering copyrights, addressing ownership and licensing matters, handling infringement cases, or advising on fair use and compliance, Joe’s in-depth knowledge and strategic counsel allow clients to navigate the complexities of copyright law with confidence. With his guidance, clients can protect their creative works, monetize their intellectual property assets, and effectively enforce their rights in the dynamic landscape of the digital age.

Joe’s performance in the field of intellectual property law have earned him the respect of clients and peers alike. His commitment to delivering exceptional legal counsel, combined with his comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of intellectual property rights, make him an invaluable asset to any individual or organization seeking to protect and leverage their innovations in today’s dynamic business landscape.

Beyond his professional achievements, Joe cherishes his family life. Originally from Pittsburgh, he currently resides in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, with his wife Laurie, their three daughters, two dogs, and two cats. In his leisure time, Joe is an avid golfer who enjoys hitting the links, and during the winter months, he can be found snowboarding down the slopes, embracing his adventurous spirit.

RECOGNITIONS
  • Leadership Recognition, American Bar Association
  • Pennsylvania Rising Stars (2010, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018)
MEMBERSHIPS
  • Chester County Bar Association
  • American Bar Association Section of Intellectual Property Law (ABA-IPL):
    – Vice Chair of the USPTO Ex Parte Patent Practice and Policy Committee
    – Member of the Amicus Brief Committee
    – Liaison to the ABA-IPL Section of Litigation
PUBLICATIONS
PRESENTATIONS
  • “Things to Consider When Bringing AI into Your Legal Practice”, Patsnap Webinar (June 2024)
  • “Legal Tech Talk for Your 21st Century Business”, BIG U 2018 (May 2018)
  • “Common Legal Issues You Need to Know”, PA Treasury’s Small Business Initiative at York College (October 2016)
  • “Legal Issues Involved in Growing your Business “, PA Treasury’s Small Business Initiative at York College (October 2016)
  • “Common Legal Issues for New Businesses”, PA Treasury’s Small Business Initiative at York College (October 2016)
  • “Outside the Box Innovations v. Travel Caddy: Can Minor Infractions be Inequitable Conduct?” Joint Patent Practice Continuing Legal Education” (April 2013)
  • “Managing Intellectual Property Rights: The Cost of Innovation,” Duquesne Business Law Journal, Spring 2004, 6 Duq. Bus.L.Rev., No.2.

Joe views himself as not just a lawyer but a problem-solver who brings clarity, strategy, and a genuine passion for bringing innovation to the table – all with the goal of helping you achieve your vision while keeping your intellectual property secure.

Drake D. Nicholas

Drake has been listed in the Best Lawyers in America® for over 20 years. He is a member of the firm’s Business Practice Group and focuses his practice on mergers and acquisitions, employee stock ownership plans, corporate reorganization, corporate governance and employee benefits, ERISA and executive compensation.

He is involved in the merger and acquisition arena for many different industry sectors, including in particular, companies in the technology, health care, manufacturing and professional service sectors. Drake also works frequently with private equity investors as part of his merger and acquisition practice.

Drake manages the firm’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) practice. He regularly advises shareholders, directors and companies and various other professional and private fiduciaries regarding the establishment, use and operation of ESOPs and ESOP-related strategies, including ownership succession transactions, management buyouts, mergers and acquisitions.

Drake also advises and represents clients with respect to tax audits and other matters before federal agencies charged with the enforcement of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), including the United States Department of Labor and the Internal Revenue Service. Drake lectures extensively to CPAs and other professionals and before numerous business organizations on business succession/acquisition strategies.

RECOGNITION
  • The Best Lawyers in America®, Employee Benefits and ERISA Law (1995-2026)
MEMBERSHIPS
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association
  • NCEO Association
  • ESOP Association
PUBLICATION
  • Governor Corbett Signs House Bill 1950 into Law
PRESENTATIONS
  • Moderator: “Embracing Change & Preparing for the Future”, 2019 Harrisburg Business Seminar (October 2019)
  • “Best Practices to Help Trustees Sleep at Night”, The ESOP Association PA/DE Chapter & NY/NJ Chapter Multi-State 2018 Conference (September 2018)

Donald R. Geiter, J.D., M.S.L. (Cybersecurity Law & Policy), CIPP/US, CIPM

Don is the chair of the firm’s Cybersecurity Service Team and a member of the Finance & Creditors’ Rights Practice Group. He also serves on the firm’s technology committee and as the firm’s Chief Privacy Officer.

Don first became involved in cybersecurity initiatives while he was a law clerk with the Office of Naval Research, U. S. Department of the Navy, in the late 1990s. Currently, Don advises business clients on a broad range of cyber, tech-related, and privacy matters, including employee and board training, data breach coaching and support, cybersecurity/privacy compliance and auditing, counseling, transactional support and contract review. Don has particular experience advising financial service organizations, healthcare organizations, and managed IT service providers. Don is an active member of the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) and is a member of InfraGard (a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the private sector for the protection of U.S. Critical Infrastructure). Don is a frequent speaker on the topic of cybersecurity and privacy, with recent presentations given to the Pennsylvania Bankers Association, the National Association of Corporate Directors, the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Association of Corporate Counsel, PA Manufacturers’ Association and the World Trade Center-Harrisburg. His recent cybersecurity projects include:

– Representation of global digital event management organization in connection with GDPR-related privacy and security compliance.

– Representation of accounting and consultancy firm in connection with regulatory compliance and related vendor management.

– Representation of entertainment touring production company in connection with applicability of cybersecurity standards and regulation.

– Representation of public utility organizations in connection with incident management and data audits.

Don’s vast finance experience involves both institutional and private financing, including representing lenders and borrowers in complex commercial lending, syndicated/participated transactions, and multi-party loan restructures and work-outs. He is the immediate past chair of the firm’s Creditors’ Rights Practice Group. His recent finance and creditors’ rights transactions include:

– Representation of a worldwide, multi-division service organization in connection with a $50 million syndicated loan financing from a group of national financial institutions.

– Representation of a national banking association in connection with its restructuring of a $40 million line of credit to a national food product manufacturer.

– Representation of a state-charted bank in connection with its $19 million working capital line of credit to a national public housing developer.

Don also has an extensive Securities practice and assists existing companies, start-ups and real estate ventures as well as helps funds with private debt and equity offerings and the associated registration, exemption and “Blue Sky” requirements. He also works with a variety of business clients on mergers and acquisitions, buy-sell agreements, shareholder relations, and is frequently engaged on general corporate matters. His recent securities and M&A transactions include:

– Representation of real estate syndication group in connection with its various mobile home park and self-storage capital raise strategies.

– Representation of senior living developer in connection with its multi-phased securities offering.

– Representation of real estate syndication group in connection with a multi-stage securities offering to support its multi-family investment property projects.

– Representation of a regional, agribusiness vendor for its acquisition of local competitor.

– Representation of a regional accounting firm to acquire a competitor.

– Representation of regional commercial construction contractor to acquire a strategic partner.

RECOGNITIONS
  • Best Lawyers “Lawyer of the Year” in Harrisburg – Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law (2023)
  • The Best Lawyers in America®, Mergers and Acquisitions (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2024), Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026), Commercial Finance Law (2021, 2022, 2024, 2025, 2026)
  • The Legal Intelligencer, “Pennsylvania Trailblazer” (2020)
  • Central Penn Business Journal, Forty under 40 List (2010) 
  • Boston Magazine, “Massachusetts Super Lawyer – Rising Star” (2006)
EXPERTISE / CERTIFICATIONS
  • IAPP Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM)
  • Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US)
PRESENTATIONS
  • “Data Privacy and Employee Monitoring: Balancing Compliance, Security, and Workplace Rights”, 42nd Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2025)
  • “Information Security for the HR Professional: Strategies for Implementing Effective Workforce Policies and Practices”, Lancaster SHRM Spring Professional Development Conference (April 2025)
  • “AI in Action – Managing Risk & Compliance”, Lancaster Chamber (April 2025)
  • Presidents Panel, Moderator, RMA South Central PA Chapter (February 2025)
  • “Cyber Resilience: Strategies for a Secure Future”, The High Center Workshop (February 2025)
  • “Don’t Get Caught Without Coverage – Understanding Cyber Law”, Business Information Group, BIG University (September 2023)
  • “What do we need to know about safeguarding our client’s information?”, York County Estate Planning Council (May 2023)
  • “Cybersecurity and Lender – How Banks Can Raise Awareness and Provide Resources for Borrowers”, PA Bankers Association, 2023 Lending Conference (November 2022)
  • “Cyber Incidents and Risk Management in the Food and Beverage Industry”, Barley Snyder, 2021 Food & Ag Summit Webinar (March 2021)
  • “Cyber Security and Liability”, York County Economic Alliance (October 2020) 
  • “Remote Work Series: Cybersecurity at Home”, Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and Industry Webinar (April 2020)
  • Panelist: “The Cyber Guest: Best Practices When Your Company Works with Third-Party Information”, Central Penn Business Journal Cyber Symposium (February 2020)
  • Panelist: “Embracing Change & Preparing for the Future”, 2019 Reading Business Seminar (October 2019) 
  • Panelist: “Embracing Change & Preparing for the Future”, 2019 Harrisburg Business Seminar (October 2019)
  • “Cyber Tech Panel”, BIG U 2019 (June 2019)
  • “Navigating the Legal Intricacies of Cybersecurity”, The Manufacturers’ Association
    Business Espionage Morning Forum (June 2019)
  • “Cyber Threats and CEO Fraud”, Lancaster Chamber (April 2019)
  • “Why Your U.S. Business Should Care About GDPR”, World Trade Center of Central PA 20th International Trade Conference (March 2019)
  • “Legal Tech Talk for Your 21st Century Business”, BIG U 2018 (May 2018)
  • Board Oversight of Risk Management (Cybersecurity), Pennsylvania Bankers Association Annual Convention (May 2018) 
  • “Best Practices for Managing Cyber Risk”, Alvernia University CFEL (February 2018)
  • “The Board’s Role in Risk Oversight and Cybersecurity,” National Association of Corporate Directors (October 2017)
  • “Current Trends in Commercial Lending”, LendiCon 2017 (March 2017)
  • Loan Participations: Whose Loan is it Anyway?”, Pennsylvania Bankers Association Annual Lending Conference (October 2016) 
  • “Doing Business in the Digital World”, Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (June 2016)
  • “Doing Business in the Digital World (and Cloud): An Overview of Risk, Applicable Laws and Policies Relating to Information Security”, Barley Snyder Business Seminar (October 2015) 
  • “Jolley v. Chase Home Finance Are Lenders Facing New Threats in Lender Liability Claims?”, Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar (March 2015)
  • “Doing Business in the Digital World”, ACC Seminar: What Keeps You up at Night? (September 2014)
  • “Loan Participations: Whose Loan is it Anyway?”, Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar (November 2013)
  • “Doing Business in the Digital World”, Barley Snyder Business Seminar, (October 2013)
  • “Bankruptcy Preference Claims and Their Defenses”, ACC Seminar: What Keeps You up at Night? (September 2013)
  • “Collection Toolbox: Secured Creditor’s Edition”, Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar (November 2012)
  • “Information Security: Policies, Processes and Technology,” Barley Snyder Business Seminar (October 2011) 
MEMBERSHIPS
  • International Association of Privacy Professionals
  • InfraGard
  • Technology Council of Central Pennsylvania
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1690 (Auxiliary member)
  • Antique Automobile Club of America

Thomas J. Nehilla

Tom concentrates his practice in the structuring, negotiation and execution of business and real estate transactions (including residential, commercial and industrial). He is experienced in joint ventures, financing, planned community and condominium developments, homeowner associations, commercial leases, construction contracts, zoning and land use and resolution of business disputes. He works with his clients to advise them on the choice of entity for real estate ownership and to determine the structure that best suits the client’s needs, including limited partnerships and limited liability companies. 

Of particular focus, Tom assists in evaluating financing options available to each client and helps tailor those options to ensure the project is successful. Options such as seller financing, lender financing, bonds, construction loans, mortgage and leasehold financing are all considered and evaluated for each project. His clients include small and large local, regional and national companies. His philosophy when working with a client is to become their general adviser and not simply their attorney.

In addition, Tom has substantial experience advising developers and landowners in all phases of land development projects – from due diligence and site acquisition through zoning, subdivision, and final plan approvals. He guides clients through land use permitting, environmental and infrastructure issues, and works closely with planners, engineers, and regulatory bodies to anticipate risks and streamline approvals. His work includes negotiating development agreements, securing appropriate public and private utility access, as well as coordinating road and stormwater infrastructure. Tom’s ability to integrate real estate, financing, and regulatory strategy helps projects move forward efficiently and in compliance with local and state rules.

In conjunction with his real estate practice, he also practices in the areas of banking and financing. Representing both financial institutions and borrowers, Tom is able to provide clients with a unique insight and full understanding of the complex issues involved in a variety of financial transactions.

RECOGNITION
  • The Best Lawyers in America® “Lawyer of the Year” in Harrisburg, 2024, Real Estate Law
  • The Best Lawyers in America®, Real Estate Law (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026), Construction Law (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026), Commercial Finance Law (2023, 2024, 2025, 2026)
MEMBERSHIP
  • Dauphin County Bar Association
PUBLICATIONS
  • Governor Corbett Signs House Bill 1950 into Law
  • Commercial Leases and Bankruptcy: A Roadmap for Landlords
PRESENTATIONS
  • “Condos in the City”, Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (June 2019)
  • Moderator: “Unique Issues with Urban Development”, Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (June 2019)
  • “Project Financing – When Can I Start Work?”, Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (June 2018)
  • “Key Terms in Commercial Leases and How They Can Hold Up Your Deal”, Greater Harrisburg Association of REALTORS Commercial Council (April 2018)

Derek P. Dissinger

Derek is chair of the firm’s Real Estate Practice Group and its Hospitality Industry Group. He concentrates his practice on real estate and sophisticated land development matters. With more than a decade of experience, Derek takes a strategic and practical approach to assisting clients in implementing their goals. 

Real Estate 
Derek regularly represents clients in both Pennsylvania and Maryland in the purchase and sale of developed and undeveloped real estate. His practice often involves complex real estate matters, such as 1031 exchanges and reverse 1031 exchanges. Derek is also a licensed title agent in Pennsylvania and Maryland, allowing him to assist clients in every phase of the transaction. With extensive experience in navigating complicated real estate transactions, Derek provides clients with tailored legal solutions that ensure successful outcomes from the start of a project to completion. 

Land Development
Derek regularly represents real estate developers in sophisticated land use matters including zoning, land development, and formation of condominiums/planned communities. He frequently appears before zoning hearing boards for variances and special exceptions and before elected bodies for conditional uses and rezonings. 

Hospitality & Liquor Law 
As part of his hospitality practice, Derek frequently handles the purchase and sale of hotels, the purchase and sale of restaurants, and the purchase and sale of liquor license. Specifically, Derek is well-versed in representing limited wineries, limited distilleries, breweries, and brewpubs in obtaining Pennsylvania manufacturing licenses. 

Finance
Derek is a member of the Finance Practice where he represents creditors such as banks and credit unions in a wide range of commercial loan transactions. His experience as a real estate attorney and title agent allows him to bring a unique perspective to the documentation of real estate loans on behalf of financial institution clients. Derek frequently presents on title insurance topics to banks and other organizations.

RECOGNITIONS
  • Top Lawyers of Chester County List – Real Estate, Daily Local News (2025)
  • Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Star (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
MEMBERSHIPS
  • Lancaster Bar Association

  • Pennsylvania Bar Association

PRESENTATIONS
  • “Mitigating Wire Fraud Risks in Real Estate Transactions: Protecting Your Clients and Their Investments”, Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (June 2025)
  • “Navigating Realty Transfer Tax in Business Transactions: Key Takeaways from Kunj Harrisburg LLC, et al. v. PA”, Lancaster Bar Association (May 2025)  
  • “Title Insurance for Construction Loans”, Pennsylvania Bar Institute’s Real Estate Institute 2024 (December 2024)                                                                                                   
  • COVID-19 Vaccines: The Impact on the Hospitality Industry, webinar (January 2021)
  • Reopening the Hospitality Industry: Current Guidelines, Possible Risks and Future Scenarios, Barley Snyder Webinar Series (June 2020)
  • Mechanics Liens; Bond Issues for Construction Projects, Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (June 2019)
  • Panelist: Structuring; Financing Real Estate Deals, Barley Snyder LendiCon (March 2019)
  • Project Financing – When Can I Start Work? Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (June 2018)
  • Condominiums, Lancaster County Association of Realtors’ Commercial; Industrial Council membership meeting (March 2018)
  • Endorsement and Exclusions to Policies and Insuring Construction Loans, National Business Institute’s Title Law: A to Z, a Two-Day Practical Course (December 2017)
  • Mechanic’s Lien, Leases and Landlord Tenant Law, Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (September 2017)
  • Sheriff Sales and Tax Sales; What do you really need to know? Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar (March 2016)
  • 2015 Mechanic’s Lien Update, Security Title Annual Seminar (May 2015)
  • Leasehold Mortgages, Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar (March 2015)
  • Conestoga Title Insurance Company Annual Seminar (January 2015)
  • Act 117 Update, Pennsylvania Land and Title Association (November 2014)
  • Buying, Leasing and Owning: What is Best for Your Business? Barley Snyder Business Seminar (October 2014)
  • Construction Lending Update, Bank Presentation (August 2014)
  • Title Insurance for Lenders: Before, During and After Settlement, Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar, (May 2014)

David H. Rattigan

In addition to more than three decades of experience as an attorney, David matches that with business experience few other lawyers can match as a certified public accountant. That rare duality allows him to work as a partner with individuals, families and businesses to help them achieve their goals as a member of Barley Snyder’s Business, Real Estate and Trusts & Estates practice groups.

David works with individuals and family-owned businesses in the areas of estate, business and tax planning, business and corporation law matters, real estate development, acquisitions and business financing. He represents family-owned manufacturers, construction contractors, breweries, real estate developers, physicians and other professional practice groups and retail and service companies, working closely with clients, their accountants, engineers, financial planners, brokers and other advisers as a team to guide clients into the future. David assists clients with the formation and operations of limited liability companies (LLCs) and S Corporations.

David has represented some of the region’s most productive families in connection with estate, tax and business succession planning, estate and trust administration and related needs. These services include the development, implementation and administration of comprehensive estate plans, including:

  • Marital trusts
  • Prenuptial agreements
  • Revocable trusts
  • Irrevocable life insurance trusts
  • GST Exempt Trusts
  • Family limited partnerships
  • LLCs
  • Annual gift planning
  • Use of disclaimers
  • Simple wills
  • Powers of attorney

David represents families, individuals, physicians, small business owners, retirees and other professionals with the same degree of enthusiasm and detail regardless of financial position. David’s real estate practice includes commercial lending, title insurance for commercial real estate, real estate development and leasing. David has also represented hospital authorities, industrial development corporations, PIDA loans, townships and municipal zoning and sewer authorities.

EXPERTISE & CERTIFICATION
  • Certified public accountant
OTHER PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
  • Licensed Title Agent

Troy B. Rider

Troy’s practice is centered around Business, Finance and Real Estate law. In his practice, he counsels clients on all facets of business transactions, including succession planning for closely held businesses and the structuring, negotiation and closing of commercial and financial transactions. In addition, Troy regularly advises business clients on proper corporate governance and best practices in a variety of situations. Troy has experience working with family businesses in industries ranging from medical practices, dental practices and other professional service firms, as well as food processing facilities, manufacturers and construction companies.

Business 
Troy handles a range of business transactions for his clients including entity selection, formation and structuring, and mergers and acquisitions. He regularly represents clients buying or selling businesses, which can include very complicated transactions involving mergers of entities, multi-level financing and equity arrangements, earn-out provisions, and floating purchase prices. In connection with such work, Troy also advises clients on the proper acquisition entity, guides the due diligence process, negotiates and secures financing, analyzes financing options, determines value, leads the team of advisers in the negotiation and closing of the transaction, and negotiates and drafts letters of intent, term sheets and definitive agreements. He further advises business clients on general matters, including contract drafting and review, regulatory compliance, governance issues, strategic positioning and succession planning.

Finance 
Troy represents lenders in commercial loan matters, including document drafting and review, counseling lender representatives and reviewing lender-prepared documents, title insurance and other finance-related documents and agreements. Troy works extensively with lenders in various facets of secured and unsecured transactions, including participated loans and commercial real estate ventures. He also advises lenders and other creditors in loan and credit recoveries for situations involving collections, foreclosures, repossessions, levies, garnishments, mechanics liens, municipal claims and other commercial litigation.

Real Estate 
Troy counsels his clients in various aspects of real estate law, including the acquisition, sale and development of retail, industrial, office and residential sites, as well as drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial leases. Troy has experience in the preparation and negotiation of sale/lease-back transactions, real estate sales agreements, due diligence, review of title commitments and resolution of title matters, review and negotiation of real estate secured loan documents and the preparation of settlement related documents.

Healthcare
Troy provides comprehensive legal services to businesses in the healthcare industry, with a particular focus on medical and dental practices. He works closely with healthcare professionals to address the unique legal needs of these businesses, helping them navigate often complex business transactions. Troy frequently assists his healthcare clients with practice transitions, mergers and acquisitions, and business succession planning. He also advises on general business matters as well as offers guidance on corporate governance and risk management strategies to ensure smooth operations and long-term success. 

Food and Agribusiness
Troy represents a number of businesses in the food and agribusiness industry and counsels such clients in a variety of areas such as regulatory and compliance concerns, real estate, contracts and transactional issues.

RECOGNITIONS
  • The Best Lawyers in America®, Business Organizations, including LLCs and Partnerships (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026)
  • Lehigh Valley Business’s Law Power List (2024)
  • Reading Eagle’s “40 under 40” (2018)
MEMBERSHIPS
  • Leadership Berks, 2009 Graduate
  • Berks County Bar Association
PRESENTATIONS
  • Moderator: “Panel Discussion about the Current Business Environment,” Barley Snyder’s 2023 Reading Business Seminar (October 2023)
  • Moderator: “Embracing Change & Preparing for the Future,” Barley Snyder’s Reading Business Seminar (October 2019)
  • “Consumer Preferences and Federal Responses – The Impact of Upcoming FDA and USDA Regulations on Food and Agribusiness,” FEI Central Pennsylvania Chapter (May 2015)
  • “Hot Topics in Commercial Lending,” Barley Snyder’s LendiCon Lending Conference (November 2012)
  • “Board Governance,” Leadership Berks County (November 2012)

 

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