1. What brought you to MacElree Harvey, and what has kept you here?
I was drawn to MacElree Harvey because of its location, size, and reputation. I wanted to be close to my home, so when I graduated from Dickinson Law School and learned of MacElree Harvey from a colleague, I was intrigued.
Originally, I was going to work for the attorney general’s office in Wilmington, and I was moving there on a Saturday. I asked the Partner at MacElree, “If you really want to hire me, can you let me know before I move on Saturday?” This was before cell phones, so he actually called my wife at home and offered me the job. We came down the next day, found someplace to live, and it all happened just like that.
What has kept me here are the people, both colleagues and clients. The attorneys and staff are not only professional but also collegial and supportive, and I’ve had the privilege of working with many wonderful clients over the years.
2. What has been the most rewarding aspect of your work with clients?
The most rewarding part of my practice has been helping people through difficult and often life-changing situations. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed building relationships, finding solutions to complex problems, and making a real difference for clients and their families.
3. How would you describe MacElree Harvey’s culture?
Our culture is very professional, but we have fun at the same time. It’s collegial, and I’ve made many good friends here over the years. We’ve had great staff, and between the lawyers, staff, and activities we do, I’d describe the culture as professional but also filled with camaraderie.
4. How have you seen the firm grow during your time here?
When I began my career, we had the West Chester and Kennett offices. At that time, there were about 13 or 14 lawyers. Today, we’ve grown to include offices in West Chester, Kennett Square, Centreville, Hockessin, and many more attorneys.
5. What strengths or values set MacElree Harvey apart?
We have smart attorneys who are very professional, and we’ve always been deeply involved in the Bar Association and the community. That involvement is important.
For example:
- Bill Gallagher and John McKenna were involved in Legal Aid.
- A retired Partner started the Chester County Community Foundation.
- Another retired Partner helped start the Fund for Women and Girls.
- I helped start Interfaith Housing Assistance Corporation in 1993 (now North Star), which is still going strong decades later.
6. What keeps you motivated in your practice?
The desire to help people keeps me motivated. I do a lot of tax sales work, which I find rewarding. Often, people who’ve worked their whole lives to pay off their house lose their property at a tax sale due to missed notices or mistakes. I’ve been successful in getting many people’s properties back, and sometimes by paying something to settle it, but it can be life-changing.
7. What advice would you give to attorneys just beginning their careers?
- Work hard.
- Listen more than you talk.
- Go out to lunch with colleagues and really listen.
- Don’t be afraid to tell people in the community who you work for. MacElree Harvey is respected and gives you credibility.
- Get involved in the Chester County Bar Association.
- Pick a nonprofit whose mission touches your heart and get involved.
For me, housing and children were central, so I got involved with Interfaith Housing. I’ve also been active in service clubs like Lions and Rotary, which allow you to meet great people, give back, and build a strong community presence.
Michael G. Louis, Chair of MacElree Harvey’s Banking and Finance Litigation Practice, represents clients with skill, strategy, and dedication. Connect with him today for guidance on your most pressing business and financial matters.
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