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
The Necessity of Special Needs Trusts
Employment Law Update June 2025
MacElree Harvey Marks 10 Years of Leadership by CEO Michelle Foster
Can You Get Divorced If Your Spouse Refuses to Sign?
When Can You Modify a Custody Order?
Supreme Court Ends Extra Burden for Majority-Group Discrimination Claims
MacElree Harvey Welcomes Attorney Elias A. Kohn to Business Department
Attorney Spotlight: Brian L. Nagle | Chair of Land Use & Zoning Department at MacElree Harvey

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
From the start, Lance was warming and responsive to my situation. He worked diligently (both during office hours and outside of work) to quickly resolve many unusual divorce issues presented in my case. His demeanor and professional conduct was of the highest regard. Lance has the knowledge and expertise of the process of divorce to quickly close this chapter. His highly regarded in my book.
My situation was horrible and spiraling all in a negative direction. In a big moment for myself, I decided to switch attorney & law firms. Lance rationally moved things in a direction that fairly got things done. He is calm, professional & spot on. If he is being baited towards confrontation he dilutes the scenario from escalating rationally & respectfully. All very important elements towards helping the topic or issue staying on point and reasonably litigated. Lance is the professionals of professionals. His sincerity to reaching fair results for the children’s behalf is exemplary. We as a family are still a family cause of Lance Nelson.
I was faced with a challenging divorce with complex estate implications. Lance provided clear practical advice ultimately allowing me to reach an agreement through mediation. He was accessible to answer questions – even during weekends – helping me map out strategic approaches to complex dispute areas. Despite the emotions being felt, Lance maintained focus on the “big picture” – advising where it made sense to fight and where it made sense to compromise. His team was also very professional and continue to guide me post-divorce on things like estate planning to help put this event behind me.
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.
I have used Caroline on both my DUI charges and both times she has achieved the best possible outcome for me. Her hard work, knowledge and presentations are beyond compare. She was always there for me, guiding me and putting my mind at ease. I would not have been able to come as far as I have without her by my side. if anyone, anywhere, anytime needs a lawyer I will never hesitate to give them her number. Thank you Caroline again