Initiative in Practice.®
For every client. Every day.
Founded in 1880, we serve individuals and businesses.
We’ve transformed the way we practice law to meet the technological and social requirements of the day.
ABOUT US

MacElree Harvey 145 Years Of Experience
With roots that reach back to 1880, MacElree Harvey uses the traditional values of professionalism and excellence as the foundation for the firm’s identity. Our attorneys are encouraged to build on these traditional values through Initiative – creative problem-solving, proactive planning, and strategic positioning.

Initiative in Practice® . For Every Client. Every Day.
Our 45+ attorneys and their staff are dedicated to providing clients with superior representation and are committed to achieving the best outcomes. We serve individuals and businesses in the Pennsylvania and Delaware area with our expertise in various areas of the law.

Client Focused Law Firm
We believe that we’re only as good as the reputation of our clients—which is why we work diligently to ensure our clients come first. We never hesitate to put our reputation on the line to ensure they get as much out of the relationship as we do.
NEWS & INSIGHTS
Judge Lou Mincarelli Returns to MacElree Harvey After Service on the Chester County Bench
Employment Law Update December 2025
MacElree Harvey’s 2025 Charitable Contributions and Community Impact
Co-Parenting During the Holidays: Tips to Reduce Stress & Conflict
Selling Your Business? Five Lessons in M&A From 2025
Employment Law Update November 2025
The CROWN Act: What Pennsylvania Employers Should Know
MacElree Harvey Earns National and Regional Recognition in 2026 Best Law Firms® Rankings

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Mr. Nelson’s calm approach to negotiating the tumultuous process of a hostile divorce and custody battle can be contagious. No matter how heated or volatile the process becomes, he never seems to lose his cool and keeps his composure at all times. He knows the system and the process and conducts himself as a true professional.
My process with the most painful experience of my life, but he was there for me every step of the way, and in the end, I got everything I wanted and more. He knows when to show his hand, and when to stick to the plan. He is organized, and no matter how busy he seems to be, he always knew the details of my case off the top of his head without having to review the mountains of paper in my files.
As far as I’m concerned, he’s the best that West Chester has to offer in the excruciating process of family law, especially when children are involved.
Lance Nelson is an exceptional family practice attorney. He has been my attorney for twenty years and during that time has successfully resolved numerous complex family issues. I recommend him without question and if you are fortunate enough to hire him you will certainly be glad you did.
Lance is smart, savvy and goes the extra mile for his client. He is professional, well spoken, and very intelligent. Super efficient, he has patience and for the attorneys that’s rare. He explains what the process is no matter what process you’re involved in. His expertise in Family law is outstanding! He can handle anything! He’s truly the Best! I will be forever grateful the way he handled my divorce process that took 5 years!
I hired Patrick to resolve my divorce case for custody, child support, alimony and ancillary matters. His tenacious approach, attention to detail and strategic planning were paramount in my case which resulted in a highly successful outcome. When the pressure is on, Patrick always conducts himself in a professional manner with a calm, cool approach and remains fact based not to allow hearsay to derail the mission. The results speak for themselves. If you’re going through a divorce and need the best, Patrick is the answer!
From the first moment I spoke with Mary there was an immediate connection. Savvy, down to earth, and so good at what she does. There was never a doubt or question as to the status of the case. Mary and her team were outstanding in communication. I was pursuing this case during a very difficult time personally and I was not able to handle any of it. I had trust and confidence in Mary and her team, and they did not disappoint. That is no small thing. Another crucial element in working with Mary, she is empathetic and has a keen emotional intelligence. Believe me, you want that in someone when working through some difficult times. I highly recommend Mary E. Lawrence.














































