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
MacElree Harvey Attorney Carolina Heinle Featured in Philadelphia Business Journal’s “Women in Law”
Employment Law Update March 2026
Attorney Tim Rayne Reaches 500-Video Milestone on YouTube
The #1 Reason Properties Go to Tax Sale Even When Owners Think Taxes Are Paid
Employment Law Update February 2026
MacElree Harvey CEO Michelle Foster Appointed to Board of the Chester County Bar Foundation
Application of Privilege in the Era of Generative AI
One Reason Homeowners Miss Tax Sale Notices

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
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.
Several years after a divorce, new issues prompted me to seek counsel about child custody concerns. No longer confident in the divorce lawyer’s practice, a recommendation led me to Lance Nelson. I truly cannot say enough good things about Lance. He is patient, pragmatic, professional, accessible. Exceptional communication and clear integrity. He laid out the options at every stage, with practical advice regarding the most logical next steps. It never needed to go to court — we were able to manage the situation well enough long enough, the kids aged out before needing more serious legal intervention. In addition to Lance, everyone I have interacted with in the office is equally competent and caring. I would not hesitate to recommend Lance specifically or the practice as a whole.
I consulted Tim on two accidents that I was involved in. He took on both of my cases. He was upfront, honest, and involved in every aspect. We were able to settle both of my cases out of court. Everything was handled by him and his staff in a professional manner. They worked with me from long distance and made everything easy and smooth. I am eternally grateful for the kindness and generosity they showed me. I recommend Tim without reservation.
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.
After encountering an issue with adopting our dog, we didn’t really know where we would ever find help and support. After having John recommended to us by a family friend, we knew immediately we were going to get the help we needed. John took our story very seriously, he was compassionate and right away began to identify solutions for us. Through his well spoken and confident demeanor, John explained each part of the legal process in terms we grasped easily. He educated us, upheld our values and held consistent professional communication throughout the process. His high expectations for his clients coupled with his legal expertise allowed us to have a smooth case. Thanks to John’s hard work and dedication, we are more than pleased with the outcome of our suit and highly recommend John to everyone we know. Thank you John for advocating for us – you changed our lives!














































