I wish I’d found MacElree Harvey sooner. We hired an attorney from Philadelphia for a border dispute that was heading to arbitration. This initial lawyer was overconfident, dismissive of our questions and slow to respond. We did extensive research and then reached out to MacElree Harvey for a 2nd opinion consultation. From our very first interaction with this firm, we were impressed. Our phone call was answered by a live person, Executive Assistant Cheryl McVicker, who was fantastic. She listened to our story, gathered all of our information, promised to get back to us promptly and kept her word. Within a short time, we got a call from Matt McKeon. During the first 30-minute phone call with Matt, he provided an extensive amount of helpful information. In response to additional questions, he did prompt and thorough research and answered right away via email. For the first time in almost 2 years, we felt that we fully understood our case. Matt then brought in a colleague, Brian Forgue, to address certain aspects of the case. His expertise and attentiveness to our case was similarly impressive. Just a great experience. We highly recommend Matt, Brian and the entire MacElree Harvey staff!

Caroline helped me out with a dire situation, without going into too much detail Caroline won me the case with her very high-level skill set that she brings as lawyer, these skills are but not limited to, her attentiveness during trials, her competitive attitude, genuine care for client and of course her very clear clean and well organized notes that she brings with her everywhere, on top of all this she always responds in a timely manner although she prefers emails for documentation purposes she will text and keep in touch with client at all times to make the trial process seem very seamless and make an already stressful situation as simple as possible!

I highly recommend her to anyone whos looking to find a reliable trustworthy compassionate and strong lawyer who will not back down from any challenge and always has a plan of action in the very unpredictable legal world of our judicial system!

Good Morning Jeff,

I just wanted to thank you so much for taking the time out to educate the blind community on workplace rights and accommodations. This is typically a very confusing, intimidating, and anxiety-inducing topic to tackle within the blind community, but you provided us with so much information in such a digestible and comfortable way. I can honestly say that I learned just as much as our students, and they took a lot away from your presentation.

Perhaps what I enjoyed the most is that you gave us such a good foundation surrounding strategies to use when advocating for accommodations, as well as our responsibilities and how we can protect ourselves throughout the process. For example, you began by informing us that the process starts with knowing ourselves and our needs, and particularly, knowing what we need to perform job duties effectively before we even address accommodations with the employer. I also loved that you managed expectations by sharing that receiving accommodations is often an “incremental and fluid” process that may take some time, but that throughout that process, it is important to communicate clearly and respectfully. This really ties into how we teach our students to advocate in every aspect of their lives.

I also appreciate that you informed us on further responsibilities on the employee side while also contrasting employer responsibilities. For example, I did not know that laws can vary in how they are applied depending on the number of employees and that protections for employees may only apply if employee numbers at a business exceed fifteen in many states, or four in PA due to specific state laws. I am also glad that you explained how employers have to provide accommodations during the application process as well as on the job and that overall, they must ensure that we have the same opportunities as others to perform in the workplace as long as it does not constitute an undue hardship. You also beautifully defined undue hardship including hazards, disproportionate financial hardship depending on company size, or negative impacts on other people’s ability to do the job and gave great examples including that of the forklift operator. You also detailed how employers should ultimately be providing training and adjustments and have a legal obligation to address issues like scheduling and issues with the workplace environment if reasonable. It is good to know that cost and whether accommodations may be disruptive to the workplace are the biggest concerns of employers, because it allows us to think ahead and plan  how we can address their concerns and “open dialog and negotiations” so that solutions are mutually beneficial.

You clearly explained that it is ultimately the responsibility of both the employer and the employee to find a solution to the issue of accommodations and that the burden is not solely on the employer. It was also vitally important for our students to know that in the case that they themselves do not follow up or provide the necessary information to support the accommodation process, judges can rule that they have not fulfilled their responsibilities as an employee. Therefore, we have to advocate for ourselves and be responsible for both having the conversation and complying with the necessary steps. The best way to do so is to advocate for ourselves by having a direct conversation with an employer; record the interaction by creating a paper trail; and protect ourselves by keeping a journal throughout the process. This was so important for you to add because I have seen first-hand how this can protect someone should they have to press a lawsuit.

In short, you were a phenomenal presenter and your information will be invaluable to all of us, not just the students. I feel a much greater sense of clarity and confidence knowing more about my rights and responsibilities; employer responsibilities and concerns; trouble-shooting solutions; and strategies to protect myself, and I know our students felt the same. Thank you so much for also taking the time to answer our questions patiently and concisely. I truly felt that you left no stone unturned. This was a great way to introduce work accommodations and your presentation alleviated a lot of stress surrounding this topic. Please join us again if possible. Your service to the blind community is so appreciated. I wish you and your family the best!

Sincerely and with the utmost gratitude,

X

Andy provided legal background and oversight on a sticky situation with a disgruntled employee. He helped us to learn about our rights/responsibilities and consider a variety of outcomes which lead us to pursue the most reasonable response. He was professional, available and kind.

From the beginning being faced with so many challenges … Charges that included highly probable incarceration… With such serious life-altering events looming. Caroline Donato from beginning to the end of my case with results in my favor with terms I was totally comfortable with!!!!!! Professional delivery and high aptitude of knowledge precede her. In a random consult, she would recite word for word certain terms/rules of law from the (Law) book … So impressive!!!!! Professional and timely support staff behind the scenes created a comfortable environment in obviously an uncomfortable situation. Caroline Donato emulates the true flawless delivery of the facts to bring true solid reputable representation to any case big or small… I recommend your search for a lawyer be over and recommend Caroline Donato.