Meet Harry DiDonato: A seasoned transactional attorney and trusted business advisor, Harry brings over 25 years of legal expertise to the table, guiding startups and established companies through complex business and legal challenges. As both an attorney and a business owner, he understands the unique hurdles entrepreneurs face and approaches each client’s needs with strategic insight and practical solutions. Whether structuring a new venture, negotiating high-stakes mergers and acquisitions, or advising on real estate and tax planning, Harry’s big-picture thinking and attention to detail make him a valuable partner. Recognized for his excellence in the legal field, he has earned an AV Preeminent Rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been repeatedly named to the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list. Outside the office, you’ll find him enjoying time at the shore with his family, hitting the golf course, or cheering—enthusiastically—for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
- What is your practice area?
Business, Real Estate, and Tax Law.
- How long have you been with MacElree Harvey?
Full time 33 years.
- How has your role evolved since you first joined MacElree Harvey?
When I started with MH, there were 12 lawyers, and I was a law clerk after my first year of law school. I am now the longest tenured partner at the firm. My role has evolved from a nuts and bolts legal practitioner to more of a trusted adviser, confidant and business adviser for clients.
- Where were you born, and where did you grow up?
I was born in Drexel Hill, PA. We lived there until I was 5 before moving to Exton. I have spent most of my life living in Chester County and raising my family in Chester County.
- What did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to be a basketball player. That dream really never had a chance.
- What inspired you to pursue a career in law?
I have always liked engaging in competitive discussions about almost any topic where I had some knowledge, so I was constantly told I should look at a career in law. For a short time I also thought about politics but that was short lived.
- What is your favorite pastime outside of work?
Spending time with my family and golf, and it is even better when I can combine the two.
- Which 3 words would you use to describe your job?
Challenging, demanding and enjoyable (most of the time).
- What are your most significant accomplishments in 2025?
2025 has just started but in 2024 Cristy and I saw two of our children marry really great people who have fit into our family seamlessly. I like to think that we had some role in helping our children develop the skills, judgment and confidence to allow them to make really good decisions in their lives, including the choice of a partner.
- As head of the Business Department, can you name some of your team’s most significant accomplishments in 2025?
Over the past year we have helped numerous clients negotiate often complex business transactions that have helped them unlock the wealth in their companies and achieve, in many cases, a lifelong goal and financial security. We have also worked with many clients on complex company restructurings and real estate transactions.
- What advice would you give to someone considering a career in law?
You really need to like what you do to be successful at it, so I would advise them to find out as much as they can about the law from several different viewpoints. There are a lot of unhappy lawyers out there.
Learn more about attorney Harry DiDonato at www.macelree.com/attorney/harry-j-didonato.
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