Position: Attorney

George C. Werner

George serves as the firm’s General Counsel. In this role, George is responsible for protecting the firm’s legal interests, maintaining its operations within the scope established by law, and providing guidance on risk management and related liability issues. He also conducts firmwide professional liability training in addition to other tasks.

Prior to serving as General Counsel, George concentrated his practice in complex civil and commercial litigation and risk management for more than 40 years. He assisted clients from the earliest indications of dispute, through trial and appeals if necessary, and frequently consults with clients during transactional matters, in an effort to avoid litigation or to minimize possible damages from litigation. George has tried to verdict or award more than 80 matters in federal and state courts and before arbitration panels. George routinely appears in all Pennsylvania courts and has handled matters in Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, California, North Carolina and Illinois. Additionally, George frequently corporate investigations in response to allegations of wrongdoing by a company or its officers.

George’s previous substantive areas of practice include patent, trade secret, trademark and unfair competition disputes, contract and business disputes, construction disputes, business torts and fraud claims, lender liability disputes, insurance coverage/ benefits disputes, defamation and commercial disparagement disputes, professional liability claims and defense of catastrophic personal injury claims.

In addition, George regularly presented to business and legal professionals on the litigation-related topics of e-discovery, attorney-client privilege and the work product doctrine, professional conflicts in legal representation, communications with media in litigation matters, and internal investigations.

Intellectual Property/Unfair Competition

George has worked with clients on matters involving Intellectual Property disputes including issues with patent, copyright, trademark, trade dress, trade secrets, confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements, and licensing agreements. Sample representations include:

  • Successfully represented a manufacturer/supplier in the marine construction industry in pursuing a claim of patent infringement in U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware, obtaining both preliminary and permanent injunctions.
  • Successfully represented a high-tech company in pursuing a claim of misappropriation of trade secrets and breach of confidentiality against a former employee.
  • Successfully represented an entrepreneur against claims that he misappropriated trade secrets from a national manufacturer of building products (Jury verdict following two-week trial).
  • Successfully represented a manufacturer/supplier in the automotive aftermarket products industry in pursuing and defending claims of trademark infringement.
  • Successfully represented an assembler/supplier in the equine industry against a claim of patent infringement.

Lender Liability

George has represented lending institutions and banks in situations involving complex commercial financing, consumer loans, sales, leases, and other transactions. Such matters pose unique risks and require a thorough analysis and understanding of the transaction, the bank’s customer and the relevant industry. Sample representations include:

  • Successfully defended financial institution in a five-week trial involving claims of breach of fiduciary duty.
  • Successfully defended banking institution against claim of conversion and unjust enrichment in a non-jury trial.
  • Successfully defended banking institution against claim of fraudulent transfer and improvident lending brought as an adversary action in the bankruptcy proceeding of corporate customer.
  • Successfully resolved lender liability claims against a banking institution following a four-week trial involving claims of bad faith brought by bank customer in connection with a floor plan line of credit.

General Business Litigation

George has represented companies in all facets of commercial litigation and complex business disputes which sometimes includes “bet the company” litigation. Sample representations include:

  • Successfully represented a publicly traded company in connection with a merger/buy-out of minority shareholders, which included claims of breach of fiduciary duty and a statutory appraisal proceeding.
  • Successfully represented a large retail chain in a dispute over premiums and coverage with its health insurer.
  • Successfully represented an international retailer in a contract dispute arising out of the sale of certain operations and facilities.
  • Successfully represented a parts distributor against its insurer in a multi-million dollar fire loss claim.
  • Successfully represented the purchaser of a retail food company in disputes with the previous owner.
  • Successfully represented feed supplier in a dispute with a customer involving claims of substantial damages resulting from allegedly tainted feed.
  • Successfully represented a professional in a dispute by a previous employer attempting to enforce a restrictive covenant.
  • Successfully resolved environmental cost claims brought by current owner of manufacturing facility against former owners, following three weeks of trial. 

Construction Law

George has represented owners, design professionals and contractors in cases involving contract interpretation and disputes, payment/collection actions, bid challenges, change order and liquidated damages claims, construction defects, and construction insurance, indemnification and arbitration contract provisions. Sample representations include:

  • Represented owner in multi-million dollar dispute with contractor and subcontractors arising out of construction of a concrete tank.
  • Represented tenant in multi-million dollar dispute with landlord/owner arising out of construction of building for tenant.
  • Represented architect in multiple claims between owner and various prime contractors arising out of construction of a school.
  • Represented owner in disputes between architect and contractor arising out of construction of a retirement home.

Media Law

George has extensive experience working with and representing communications companies, both print and television media, in libel and privacy matters. He has handled cases involving defamation, public officials, invasion of privacy, intent to inflict emotional distress, right to know, and subpoenas of the press room. George has successfully tried cases involving:

  • Successfully obtained summary judgment for a newspaper in connection with claims brought by two public officials arising out of the reporting of a murder investigation.
  • Successfully obtained summary judgment for a newspaper in connection with claims brought by a public official arising out of the reporting of the official’s actions while in office.
  • Successfully defended a newspaper in a two-week trial against a claim brought by an attorney/private citizen.
  • Represented a newspaper in claims brought by private citizens arising out of the newspaper’s reporting of criminal proceedings against private citizens.
RECOGNITIONS
  • Rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell
  • Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” in Harrisburg – Litigation/Construction (2016, 2019, 2023)
  • The Best Lawyers in America®, Commercial Litigation, Litigation – Banking and Finance, Litigation – Construction, Litigation – First Amendment (2010-2026)
  • Pennsylvania Super Lawyers (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020)
PRESENTATIONS
  • “Non-Compete Litigation and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act”, 2018 Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (May 2018)
  • “Doing Business in the Digital World (and Cloud): An Overview of Risk, Applicable Laws and Policies Relating to Information Security”, Barley Snyder Business Seminar (October 2015)
  • “Jolley v. Chase Home Finance – Are Lenders Facing New Threats in Lender Liability Claims?”, Barley Snyder LendiCon Seminar (March 2015)
  • “Ethical Issues Perplexing In-House Counsel”, ACC Seminar: What Keeps You up at Night? (September 2014)
  • “In-House Counsel and the Attorney/Client Privilege – Confusion in the Role of In-House Counsel”, Association of Corporate Counsel (September 2013)
  • “Legal Ethics in Crisis Management”, Association of Corporate Counsel (September 2012)
  • “Ethics Matters and Internal Investigations” The Association of Corporate Counsel Central Pennsylvania Chapter Seminar (October 2011)
  • “Conducting Internal Investigations and Preserving Attorney-Client Privilege” The Association of Corporate Counsel Central Pennsylvania Chapter Seminar (November 2010)
  • “Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law” HACC Foundation (September 2010)
  • “Ethical and Practical Considerations of Social Networking Technology: Blogging, MySpace, Facebook and Twitter.” Lancaster Bar Association (2009)
  • “A Business’ Guide to Intellectual Property Enforcement.” Barley Snyder Business Law Seminar (Spring 2008)
  • “Managing Risk, E-Discovery and Litigation Disasters” The Hershey Company (December 2008)
  • “Managing Risk Through Effective Electronic Information Management.” Chester County Bar Association (September 2005)
CLERKSHIPS
  • Honorable Daniel J. Snyder, Jr. and Honorable Maurice B. Cohill of the U.S. District Court, Western District of Pennsylvania, September, 1978-1980.

David J. Freedman


David Freedman is a partner in the firm’s Employment Practice Group, concentrating his practice in the areas of employment litigation and counseling, higher education law, and business immigration. He also chairs Barley Snyder’s Higher Education Industry Group.

Employment Litigation

David represents public and private employers of all types and sizes – including employers in the health care, higher education, and hospitality industries – in litigation before state and federal courts and administrative agencies. David has represented employers in claims brought under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Combined Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA), the Pennsylvania Wage Payment Collection Law, the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Law, the Pennsylvania Whistleblower Law, and the Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Law, among others. As a litigator, David has:

– Defended an FLSA collective/class action involving a multimillion dollar claim with over 2,000 plaintiffs against hospitality industry client

– Obtained summary judgment in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania for a hospital-employer in case alleging violation of Title VII based on refusal to accommodate geriatric nurse’s claimed religious objections to influenza vaccination requirement

– Served as lead counsel before the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunities Commission defending a health care system against approximately 30 claims of failure to accommodate religious objections to COVID-19 vaccination requirement 

– Obtained a trial verdict in favor of an employer in a suit brought by a terminated long-term employee alleging worker’s compensation retaliation in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania

– Obtained trial verdict in the Adams County Court of Common Pleas in favor of a health care system against claims by a terminated physician for alleged violation of Pennsylvania Whistleblower Act 

– Obtained a preliminary and final injunction from the Adams County Court of Common Pleas in favor of a health care system preventing a former employee-physician from establishing a competing medical practice

– Successfully defended a health care system against declaratory judgment and preliminary injunction action in York County Court of Common Pleas seeking to invalidate a neurosurgeon’s non-competition agreement  

– Obtained summary judgment in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania for an employer in an age discrimination case in which the plaintiff sought more than $2 million in lost wages and liquidated damages

– Obtained dismissal from the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania of case against a health care system alleging violations of the Employee Retirement and Income Security Act (ERISA), the ADEA, the False Claims Act and various state law tort claims

– Convinced the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court to reverse an administrative ruling permitting an employee terminated for falsifying documents to obtain unemployment compensation benefits

– Obtained summary judgment for an employer in a case involving allegations of race and age discrimination brought by a 30-year employee in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania

– Obtained summary judgment for an employer in a case involving allegations of race discrimination in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania

– Obtained early dismissal of a sexual harassment claim brought against a local government in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia

– Successfully argued before the United States Court of Appeals for complete reversal of a $23 million remedial order entered against a local government under Title II of the ADA

– Obtained a trial verdict in favor of a property owner in a breach of contract action arising out of the restoration of a landmark

– Handled more than 70 unemployment compensation referee hearings and 40 appeals before the Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Board of Review 

Labor and Employment Counseling

David also counsels employers on issues related to employee discipline, termination, workplace harassment, wage and hour compliance, and compliance with federal and state laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act, the FMLA, Title VII, the ADA, the Fair Credit Reporting Act and numerous other employment laws. He has experience counseling employers from a wide variety of industries including the hospitality industry. Some examples of David’s counseling experiences are:

– Providing training in the labor and employment laws in both English and Spanish

– Assisting employers in conducting confidential internal investigations into allegations of workplace sexual harassment

– Conducting internal sexual harassment investigations in Spanish

– Performing audits to ensure proper classification of employees’ exempt/non-exempt status under the FLSA and the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Law. (He has also conducted audits of workers’ status as an independent contractor/employee under several laws including the Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Law.)

– Assisting employers in responding to investigations by government agencies, such as the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the United States Department of Labor, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry

– Assisting employers in evaluating their pre-employment screening procedures for compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Pennsylvania Criminal History Information Act, the ADA and Title VII

– Assisting restaurants in complying with the intricacies of the “tip credit” under federal and state wage and hour laws

– Drafting complete employee handbooks and reviewing specific policies to ensure compliance with state and federal laws, such as Title VII, the ADA, the ADEA, the FMLA, the PHRA and the Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA). (He has drafted some of these policies in Spanish for employers with large Spanish-speaking employee populations.)

Higher Education Litigation and Counseling

David provides extensive counseling and training for administrators, faculty and staff regarding student rights and discipline issues arising under a host of federal and state laws including the Pennsylvania Fair Educational Opportunities Act, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title IX of the Educational Amendments Act, the Clery Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. David has assisted colleges and universities in drafting and implementing Title IX-compliant sexual misconduct policies and grievance procedures. David has also served as a part-time Title IX coordinator at a private college in Pennsylvania, giving him a unique “insider’s” perspective regarding the complex nature of Title IX compliance. He has conducted extensive, comprehensive internal Title IX investigations. David also provides institutions with counseling regarding faculty hiring, promotions and tenure removal issues. David has also represented public and private colleges and universities in a diverse array of litigation matters. Some of David’s more notable litigation matters for colleges and universities include the following: 

– In a matter of first impression, David convinced the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court that students cannot assert claims against institutions of higher education for disability discrimination under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act for failure to accommodate students’ use of marijuana, even when such use is authorized under the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Act.

– Obtained summary judgment in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania in suit brought by former nursing student who alleged that she was removed from the nursing program based on her race

– Obtained summary judgment on damages claim brought by a suspended student alleging that a private college violated Pennsylvania common law by failing to follow internal discipline procedures

– Successfully settled Title IX claim against a college based on a terminated professor’s allegedly non-consensual sexual contact with student 

– Successfully defended dozens of claims before the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, the U.S. EEOC, and the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights by former administrators, faculty, staff and students.

Immigration

David counsels employers and individuals regarding their immigration needs. He has assisted employers in securing non-immigrant work visas and legal permanent residency for new hires and transferring employees within multi-national companies. David also counsels individuals and businesses regarding various immigrant investor programs. His current business immigration work includes:

– Representing individuals seeking EB-1 immigrant visas, including foreign nationals of outstanding ability, outstanding researchers and executives of multinational corporations

– Assisting individuals in obtaining a wide variety of employment-based temporary visas, the H-1B specialty occupation visa, the L visa for intercompany transferees, the E visa for treaty traders or investors and the O visa for individuals with extraordinary abilities in the areas of science, art, education, business or athletics

– Assisting food and agribusiness clients in employment law, specifically with I-9 compliance

– Assisting employers addressing the nuances of the optional practical training program for employment of F-1 student visa holders

– Filing lawsuits against USCIS in federal district court challenging unreasonable delays in visa processing and arbitrary and capricious denials of employment-based visa applications under the Administrative Procedure Act

Pro Bono

David also maintains a robust pro bono immigration practice, representing victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and LGBT persecution. He has handled asylum, U-Visa cases, and has represented a habeas corpus petitioner. David currently serves as the lead attorney in the U Visa Litigation Project, which has involved filing federal lawsuits against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for failure to timely decide U visa petitions filed by victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Project is a joint effort among the Pennsylvania Immigration Resource Center, volunteer law students from the University of Pennsylvania Carey School of Law, and volunteer attorneys from the Lancaster County Bar Association, the York County Bar Association, the Dauphin County Bar Association, and the Federal Bar Association for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. The Project is a “first of its kind effort” and its efforts have been chronicled in a number of media outlets including The Associated Press, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and CBS-21 News. David is in the processing of assisting the creation of a similar project in the Richmond, Va. area. David also previously volunteered for the Pennsylvania Innocence Project, investigating inmates’ claims of wrongful conviction.

Prior Experience

Prior to joining Barley Snyder, David served as an assistant city attorney for Richmond, Va., representing the city in police liability and other civil rights matters under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, the Voting Rights Act, Title VII, the ADA, as well as cases involving construction law, automobile accident liability and other miscellaneous tort and criminal matters. 

Earlier, David was an associate with McGuire Woods, LLP, in that firm’s Richmond, Va., office. David started his legal career as a law clerk for the Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo, U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

RECOGNITIONS
  • George Mason University Alumni Association’s “Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award” (2022)
  • Central Pennsylvania Business Journal’s “Power 30 Award,” Top 30 Most Influential Legal Professionals in Central Pennsylvania (2021 & 2022)
  • George Mason University College of Humanities and Social Sciences, “Community & Catalysts Award” (2021)
  • Central Penn Business Journal’s “Legal Excellence Awards” for Pro Bono Excellence (2021)
  • Pennsylvania Immigration Resource Center’s “Light of Liberty Award” as Pro Bono Attorney of the Year (2015, 2018, and 2021)
  • Select Lawyer, Polk-Lepson Research Group; Labor and Employment Law (2016)
  • Pennsylvania Rising Stars (2015)
  • Central Penn Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 list (2013)
  • University of Richmond’s McNeill Law Society Legal Writing Contest: First Prize (2001)
MEMBERSHIPS
  • Lancaster Bar Association
  • York Bar Association
  • National Association of College and University Attorneys
  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
PRESENTATIONS
  • “Employment Law Update 2025: Navigating Recent Federal Changes and the Impact of President Trump’s Second Term”, 42nd Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2025)
  • “Re-defining “Win”: How to Advantageously Settle Employment Law Litigation”, 41st Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2024)
  • “Religious Accommodations in the Post-COVID Era,” 40th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2023)
  • “Anatomy of an Employment Discrimination Lawsuit,”40th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2023)
  • “Getting in the Weeds of Medical Marijuana,”40th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2023)
  • “Religious Accommodations in the Workplace,” 39th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2022)
  • “2021 Immigration Update for Employers”, 38th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2021)
  • “COVID-19 Vaccines: The Impact on Higher Education”, Barley Snyder webinar (January 2021)
  • “2019 and 2020 Federal Update”, 37th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (September 2020)
  • “Expanding the Scope of Employer Responsibilities & Employee Protections”, 37th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (September 2020)
  • “Immigration Compliance in the COVID-19 Era”, 37th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (September 2020)
  • “Employee Handbook Must Haves”, 36th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2019)
  • “Immigration and Employment Law Update”, Pennsylvania Bankers’ Association Agriculture Lending Summit (April 2019)
  • “Employee Handbook Must Haves”, Lancaster Chamber (March 2019)
  • “Worksite Enforcement for the Hospitality Industry”, Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association (March 2019)
  • “Hot Topics in Employment, Labor & Immigration”, Barley Snyder Food & Ag Summit (February 2019)
  • “Workplace Investigations in the Era of the #MeToo Movement,” 35th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2018)
  • “Immigration Issues for Businesses”, Gettysburg Adams Chamber of Commerce seminar (March 2018)
  • “Immigration Issues for Businesses”, Lancaster SHRM Fall Legal Update 2017 (September 2017)
  • “Enforcement Priorities in the Trump Era”, Workforce Forum (June 2017)
  • “The Human Side – Employment and Immigration Compliance Issues”, The Summit for Food & Agribusiness (May 2017)
  • “Key Policies and Trends for Employee Handbooks and Policies”, 34th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (April 2017)
  • “Key Issues in Drafting Personnel Policies”, County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania Annual Conference (May 2017)
  • “Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity”, 33rd Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2016)
  • “Workplace Investigations”, 33rd Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (May 2016)
  • “Anatomy of a Lawsuit: Strategies for Defending Employment Litigation in State and Federal Courts”, Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (April 2015)
  • “Workplace Enforcement – Avoiding I-9 Issues & Pitfalls”, 32nd Annual Barley Snyder Employment Law Seminar (April 2015)
  • “Key Policies and Trends With Respect to Employee Handbooks”, Lancaster Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Professional Development Friday (May 2015)
  • “Social Media in the Workplace”, Pennsylvania Bar Institute (August 2014)
  • “Be Careful What You Test For… It Might Land You in Court: The Legal Pitfalls of Pre-Employment Screening and Testing”, 31st Annual Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (May 2014)
  • “Immigration Law: Where Things Stand and Where Things Might Be Going?”, 31st Annual Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (May 2014)
  • “Hot Topics in Employment Law”, ACC Seminar: What Keeps You up at Night? (September 2013)
  • “Navigating the Minefield: Advanced Strategies for Managing ADA, FMLA, and Workers’ Compensation Leave”, 30th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (May 2013)
  • “Be Careful What You Test For; It Might Land You in Court: The Legal Pitfalls of Pre-Employment Screening and Testing “, 29th Annual Barley Snyder Employment Seminar (May 2012)
LANGUAGE
  • Spanish
CLERKSHIPS
  • Law Clerk to Hon. Sylvia H. Rambo, U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania (2001-2003)

David H. Rattigan

In addition to more than three decades of experience as an attorney, David matches that with business experience few other lawyers can match as a certified public accountant. That rare duality allows him to work as a partner with individuals, families and businesses to help them achieve their goals as a member of Barley Snyder’s Business, Real Estate and Trusts & Estates practice groups.

David works with individuals and family-owned businesses in the areas of estate, business and tax planning, business and corporation law matters, real estate development, acquisitions and business financing. He represents family-owned manufacturers, construction contractors, breweries, real estate developers, physicians and other professional practice groups and retail and service companies, working closely with clients, their accountants, engineers, financial planners, brokers and other advisers as a team to guide clients into the future. David assists clients with the formation and operations of limited liability companies (LLCs) and S Corporations.

David has represented some of the region’s most productive families in connection with estate, tax and business succession planning, estate and trust administration and related needs. These services include the development, implementation and administration of comprehensive estate plans, including:

  • Marital trusts
  • Prenuptial agreements
  • Revocable trusts
  • Irrevocable life insurance trusts
  • GST Exempt Trusts
  • Family limited partnerships
  • LLCs
  • Annual gift planning
  • Use of disclaimers
  • Simple wills
  • Powers of attorney

David represents families, individuals, physicians, small business owners, retirees and other professionals with the same degree of enthusiasm and detail regardless of financial position. David’s real estate practice includes commercial lending, title insurance for commercial real estate, real estate development and leasing. David has also represented hospital authorities, industrial development corporations, PIDA loans, townships and municipal zoning and sewer authorities.

EXPERTISE & CERTIFICATION
  • Certified public accountant
OTHER PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
  • Licensed Title Agent

Troy B. Rider

Troy’s practice is centered around Business, Finance and Real Estate law. In his practice, he counsels clients on all facets of business transactions, including succession planning for closely held businesses and the structuring, negotiation and closing of commercial and financial transactions. In addition, Troy regularly advises business clients on proper corporate governance and best practices in a variety of situations. Troy has experience working with family businesses in industries ranging from medical practices, dental practices and other professional service firms, as well as food processing facilities, manufacturers and construction companies.

Business 
Troy handles a range of business transactions for his clients including entity selection, formation and structuring, and mergers and acquisitions. He regularly represents clients buying or selling businesses, which can include very complicated transactions involving mergers of entities, multi-level financing and equity arrangements, earn-out provisions, and floating purchase prices. In connection with such work, Troy also advises clients on the proper acquisition entity, guides the due diligence process, negotiates and secures financing, analyzes financing options, determines value, leads the team of advisers in the negotiation and closing of the transaction, and negotiates and drafts letters of intent, term sheets and definitive agreements. He further advises business clients on general matters, including contract drafting and review, regulatory compliance, governance issues, strategic positioning and succession planning.

Finance 
Troy represents lenders in commercial loan matters, including document drafting and review, counseling lender representatives and reviewing lender-prepared documents, title insurance and other finance-related documents and agreements. Troy works extensively with lenders in various facets of secured and unsecured transactions, including participated loans and commercial real estate ventures. He also advises lenders and other creditors in loan and credit recoveries for situations involving collections, foreclosures, repossessions, levies, garnishments, mechanics liens, municipal claims and other commercial litigation.

Real Estate 
Troy counsels his clients in various aspects of real estate law, including the acquisition, sale and development of retail, industrial, office and residential sites, as well as drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial leases. Troy has experience in the preparation and negotiation of sale/lease-back transactions, real estate sales agreements, due diligence, review of title commitments and resolution of title matters, review and negotiation of real estate secured loan documents and the preparation of settlement related documents.

Healthcare
Troy provides comprehensive legal services to businesses in the healthcare industry, with a particular focus on medical and dental practices. He works closely with healthcare professionals to address the unique legal needs of these businesses, helping them navigate often complex business transactions. Troy frequently assists his healthcare clients with practice transitions, mergers and acquisitions, and business succession planning. He also advises on general business matters as well as offers guidance on corporate governance and risk management strategies to ensure smooth operations and long-term success. 

Food and Agribusiness
Troy represents a number of businesses in the food and agribusiness industry and counsels such clients in a variety of areas such as regulatory and compliance concerns, real estate, contracts and transactional issues.

RECOGNITIONS
  • The Best Lawyers in America®, Business Organizations, including LLCs and Partnerships (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026)
  • Lehigh Valley Business’s Law Power List (2024)
  • Reading Eagle’s “40 under 40” (2018)
MEMBERSHIPS
  • Leadership Berks, 2009 Graduate
  • Berks County Bar Association
PRESENTATIONS
  • Moderator: “Panel Discussion about the Current Business Environment,” Barley Snyder’s 2023 Reading Business Seminar (October 2023)
  • Moderator: “Embracing Change & Preparing for the Future,” Barley Snyder’s Reading Business Seminar (October 2019)
  • “Consumer Preferences and Federal Responses – The Impact of Upcoming FDA and USDA Regulations on Food and Agribusiness,” FEI Central Pennsylvania Chapter (May 2015)
  • “Hot Topics in Commercial Lending,” Barley Snyder’s LendiCon Lending Conference (November 2012)
  • “Board Governance,” Leadership Berks County (November 2012)

 

Erica R. Townes

Erica is an attorney in the Business and Real Estate practice groups. In her corporate practice, Erica represents businesses of all sizes and sophistication across a variety of industries. Erica’s practice ranges from assisting start-up companies with entity formation and governing documents to routinely working with more seasoned companies on complex mergers and acquisitions, strategic corporate restructuring, and succession planning. She frequently works with privately held, closely held, and family-owned businesses, providing tailored legal counsel to address their unique challenges, particularly in governance, succession planning, and strategic growth. Erica also devotes a substantial portion of her practice to assisting clients in residential and commercial development, property acquisition, commercial lease negotiations, zoning, and land use concerns. In both facets, Erica focuses on the structure, negotiation, and strategic planning of business and real estate transactions.

To complement her corporate law practice, Erica maintains an active nonprofit practice, advising tax-exempt organizations on formation, governance, and regulatory compliance. She serves on the board of and is involved with a number of local nonprofit and professional organizations, including the York County Bar Foundation Board of Directors, the Dauphin County Bar Association Young Lawyers Section, and the DreamWrights Center for Community Arts Board of Directors. 

Erica believes that effective legal representation requires a combination of strategic thinking, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of each client’s priorities. This approach allows her to provide clear, actionable advice tailored to the unique circumstances of every client. Erica is committed to balancing a collaborative mindset with decisive advocacy, recognizing that the best outcomes often result from thoughtful negotiation and creative problem-solving rather than unnecessary conflict.

When not practicing law, Erica’s firm responsibilities include serving as a member of the firm’s Hiring Committee, where she is involved in recruiting for the firm’s Summer Associate Program. Prior to joining Barley Snyder, Erica externed for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania for the Hon. P. Kevin Brobson as a law student.

While not a performer herself, Erica is a musical theatre enthusiast and frequently patronizes New York City and central Pennsylvania theatre productions. Her favorite show running on Broadway is “Hamilton.”

Representative Matters:

  • Represented seller in the asset sale of a luxury hotel and hospitality lighting company.
  • Represented seller in the equity sale of national honey packing business and underlying real estate.
  • Represented seller in the stock sale of structural steel fabrication company.
  • Represented buyer in the asset sale of a regional snack company.
  • Represented seller in the asset sale of outdoor wireless network and communications company.
  • Represented the seller in the asset sale of a printing company.
  • Represented the seller in the asset sale of an insurance agency.
  • Represented the seller in the stock sale of a metalworking design and manufacturing company.
  • Represented the buyer in the acquisition of an electric company.
  • Represented the buyer in the acquisition of an auto core contracting business.
  • Represented the buyer in the purchase of a restaurant and its underlying real estate.
  • Represented a landlord in the negotiation of a commercial lease for a restaurant and bar in York County.
  • Represented a landlord in the negotiation of a commercial lease for a pizza restaurant in York County.
  • Represented a tenant in the commercial lease negotiation for a restaurant in downtown Harrisburg.
  • Represented applicants in securing a variance and special exception for a property in York City.
  • Represented applicants in securing special exceptions for short-term rental operations in various municipalities. 
  • Represented applicants in securing a special exception and variance for a wedding venue operation.
RECOGNITIONS
  • Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America, Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships) (2024, 2025, 2026) Mergers and Acquisitions Law (2024, 2025, 2026), Real Estate Law (2026)
  • Central Penn Business Journal “Legal Excellence Awards” — Up and Coming Lawyers
  • Order of the Barrister
MEMBERSHIPS
  • Herbert B. Cohen Chapter of the American Inns of Court
  • York County Bar Association
  • Dauphin County Bar Association
PUBLICATIONS
  • “Clarifying the Administration of Substance Abuse Policies”, Widener University Law Journal
  • “DOL’s Change of Course on Unpaid Interns”, Corporate Counsel Business Journal
PRESENTATIONS
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Real Property Annual Retreat — Annual Update on Pennsylvania Real Estate Case Law (August 2023)
  • “Remote Work Is Here to Stay… And Wage & Hour Update Too!” 40th Annual Employment Law Seminar
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Real Property Annual Retreat — Annual Update on Pennsylvania Real Estate Case Law (August 2022)
  • Pennsylvania Assocation of Sewage Enforcement Officers Conference — Overview of the Municipalities Planning Code and Right to Know Law (March 2022)
  • “Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Real Property Annual Retreat — Annual Update on Pennsylvania Real Estate Case Law” (August 2021)
  • Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry Human Resources Conference (November 2018)
  • 2017 Human Resource Association of Centre County Labor and Employment Seminar (October 2017)

Daniel T. Desmond

Dan Desmond serves as Chair of Barley Snyder’s Business Practice Group, where he leads a dynamic team of attorneys advising clients on complex corporate matters. A trusted business advisor, Dan is particularly recognized for his deep experience in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and his strategic counsel to closely held and family-owned businesses.

Dan has guided clients through a wide range of M&A transactions – from early-stage entity formation, structuring and due diligence to negotiation, financing, and post-closing integration. His hands-on approach and ability to manage every aspect of a deal make him a go-to resource for business owners, executives, investors, governments and charitable institutions navigating high-stakes transactions. He regularly represents buyers, sellers, and investors in conventional, venture capital, private equity, senior living and regulated deals across diverse industries.

With a strong commitment to family enterprise, Dan advises multigenerational businesses on succession planning, governance, and long-term strategy. As a Peer Group Facilitator for The High Center for Family Businesses, he helps leaders address the unique challenges of family dynamics, ownership transitions, and legacy preservation.

Beyond M&A and family business matters, Dan’s practice spans general business and finance law, regulatory compliance, and commercial lending. He also serves as solicitor and general counsel to several municipal authorities, structuring tax-exempt bonds and notes for public and nonprofit clients.

Dan’s clients range from startups and entrepreneurs to public companies, financial institutions, and healthcare professionals. He frequently advises doctors, dentists, and medical groups on strategic transactions, including MSO and DSO acquisitions and divestitures. Dan also has significant experience advising clients in the senior living industry, including continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), assisted living providers, and skilled nursing facilities. He counsels these organizations on strategic transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, affiliations, and joint ventures, as well as on governance, financing, and operational matters. His understanding of the regulatory landscape and the unique business dynamics of senior care enables him to deliver practical, forward-thinking solutions that support long-term sustainability and growth.

A Lancaster native and J.P. McCaskey graduate, Dan brings valuable local insight to his work with regional institutions and nonprofits. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Lancaster Safety Coalition and is active in youth sports coaching.

Dan leads the firm’s antitrust practice, with a particular specialty in navigating clients through Hart-Scot Rodino filings and requests in connection with high-value deals. He is also a contributor to the firm’s Practice Excellence® initiative, promoting innovative, cost-effective legal solutions.

Dan’s approach is grounded in the firm’s Client Service Principles – responsiveness, strategic insight, efficiency, and proactive communication – ensuring consistently exceptional service across all engagements.

PRESENTATIONS
  • “Navigating the Information Security/Fraud Landscape: Helping our Customers Mitigate Risk, Increase Compliance and the Crucial Role of the Corporate Transparency Act”, Barley Snyder LendiCon (April 2024)
  • “Complying with FinCEN’s Beneficial Ownership Reporting Rule Under the Corporate Transparency Act”, Barley Snyder Webinar (January 2024)
  • Featured speaker, Mayor Kim Bracey’s Diverse, Minority Business Forum (October 2017)
  • “Swaps in Loan Transaction”, Barley Snyder LendiCon 2017 (March 2017)
  • “From Soup to Nuts: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Acquiring a Sewer System”, PMAA Annual Conference (August 2015)
RECOGNITIONS
  • Best Lawyers in America®, Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships) (2026)
CLERKSHIPS
  • Judicial Intern, Honorable Marjorie O. Rendell, Third Circuit Court of Appeals
  • Judicial Intern, Honorable Eric L. Frank, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District Of Pennsylvani

Eric M. Ondo

Eric is a member of the firm’s Business, Mergers & Acquisitions and Real Estate groups. 

In his business practice, Eric advises clients on all aspects of their business, ranging from entity selection and formation to succession planning. He counsels private entities — including closely held and family-owned businesses — on mergers, acquisitions, corporate governance and a variety of other transactional matters. He also frequently assists clients with general business issues including contract drafting, review and negotiation. Furthermore, Eric has experience with handling formations for nonprofit organizations. 

A substantial portion of Eric’s practice is assisting clients with mergers and acquisitions, including stock and asset transactions. In this role, he conducts due diligence, structures transactions, negotiates and drafts letters of intent, negotiates and drafts acquisition agreements, reviews non-compete and non-disclosure agreements in addition to other matters. Eric enjoys helping his clients navigate the complex process of M&A transactions, ultimately helping to bring the deal to a success close. 

Eric’s real estate practice dovetails with his business practice where he handles matters relating to residential and commercial agreements of sale, leases, restrictive covenants, easements as well as navigating various zoning and land-use issues.

Eric started at Barley Snyder as summer associate and continues a long-time tradition of joining the firm later as an attorney. During law school, Eric practiced as a certified legal intern at the Penn State Family Law Clinic, gaining valuable experience working directly with clients. He also donated pro bono services drafting trusts and estates documents for senior citizens in Centre County. In addition, Eric worked as an intern with the Pennsylvania Office of General Counsel, aiding the Pennsylvania Department of State’s Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs in 2018. Before moving into law, Eric worked in investment performance in the Washington, D.C. area. He also was a Congressional intern in the U.S. House of Representatives. His wide range of experiences have aided Eric in bringing a thoughtful, considered approach to the unique circumstances and goals of his clients.

A Lebanon County native, Eric now lives in Lancaster County and is a former Eagle Scout. He played four years of football at Dickinson College, where he graduated cum laude, and is also a cum laude graduate of Penn State Law. Eric is proud to be a member of Leadership Lancaster Core Class of 2024 and values community service and involvement. In his time away from the office, Eric enjoys spending time with his wife and son, golfing and Penn State football. 

MEMBERSHIPS
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association
  • Lancaster Bar Association
PRESENTATIONS
  • “Business Entity Selection”, Co-presenter, Pennsylvania Bar Institute CLE Virtual Presentation (November 2023)
RECOGNITIONS
  • Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America, Mergers and Acquisitions Law (2026)
  • Theta Alpha Kappa, The Religious Studies and Theology National Honor Society
  • Pi Sigma Alpha, The Political Science Honor Society

Christopher J. Churchill

Chris is a partner in the firm’s Business and Real Estate practice groups and chair of the Barley Snyder Senior Living Industry Group. He also is a member and former chair of the Barley Snyder Health Care Industry Group. Chris’s nearly 40 years of legal experience includes: mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures and affiliations, regulatory compliance and licensing, corporate governance, payor and other contracting matters.  

Chris frequently represents a wide array of clients in the senior living and healthcare sectors, including: CCRCs/Life Plan Communities, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, personal care homes, home/health care agencies, senior housing developers and others in the senior living industry, as well as health care clients, including: hospitals, physician/dental groups, FQHCs/health centers, health plans/TPAs, diagnostic imaging centers and other health care providers. 

Mergers & Acquisitions
Chris has extensive experience advising clients on a wide range of mergers and acquisitions, with particular focus on the senior living and health care sectors. He works closely with organizations to navigate the complexities of corporate transactions, from initial structuring to post-transaction integration. Whether handling asset sales, joint ventures, mergers or affiliations, Chris ensures that his clients’ strategic goals are aligned with legal and regulatory requirements.

His expertise spans both for-profit and nonprofit entities, helping to manage the nuances of governance issues, financing arrangements and regulatory approvals that often arise during M&A transactions. His ability to navigate complex regulatory landscape makes him a trusted advisor for organizations seeking to expand, reorganize or enter into new partnerships.

Regulatory Compliance & Licensing
Chris regularly assists clients with their complex federal/state regulatory compliance needs. He has substantial experience handling matters related to the False Claims Act and whistleblower actions. He is well-versed in Stark Law and Anti-Kickback Statute compliance, as well as Medicare, Medicaid, and third-party payor contracting, reimbursement and audits. He also provides guidance on HIPAA/HITECH compliance and Pennsylvania data breach laws. 

Additionally, Chris has deep knowledge of regulatory matters involving the Department of Human Services (DHS), Department of Aging (DOA), Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Insurance (DOI), and has represented numerous clients in handling license violations, appeals and hearings. 

Chris’s thorough understanding of the regulatory environment allows him to anticipate challenges and provide proactive solutions for his clients. His dedication to compliance and risk management ensures that clients operate within the bounds of the law while meeting their financial and organizational goals.

Professional Involvement
Chris has served on the Health Care Policy Committee of the Alexander Graham Bell Association in Washington, D.C., as well as on the boards of various health care and not-for-profit organizations. He is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association and the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

Chris is a frequent author of numerous articles/publications on health care, senior living, corporate compliance and business issues. Scroll below to check out his recent articles.

Chris has been recognized for his work in mergers and acquisitions, earning praise from clients for his strategic guidance and ability to navigate complex transactions. Read more about some of his recent transactions in our Year in Review publications: 2024 Year in Review, 2023 Year in Review and 2022 Year in Review

In his free time, Chris enjoys biking, hikes, exploring wildlife and traveling with his children.

PRESENTATIONS
  • “Artificial Intelligence – A Brave New World”, Kairos Education Conference & Exhibit (2024)
  • “M&A vs. Organic Growth – Governance, Financing and Other Implications”, Kairos Education Conference & Exhibit (2023)
  • “COVID-19 Vaccine: The Impact on Health Care and Long Term Care”, Barley Snyder Webinar (2020)
  • “Federal Sentencing Guidelines and Effective Compliance Programs”, Financial Executives International – Professional Development Session (2017)
  • “Compliance Program Effectiveness”, Barley Snyder Business Seminar Series (2012)
  • “Managed Care Compliance 101+”, HCCA Conference (2012)
  • “Evaluating Your Compliance Strategy”, Barley Snyder Business Seminar Series (2011)
MEMBERSHIPS
  • American Health Lawyers Association
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association
OTHER PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
  • Former adjunct professor for graduate studies in health care administration, St. Francis University

Christopher A. Naylor

As a member of the firm’s Real Estate and Business practice groups, Chris has a breadth of experience to assist clients in these often-intertwined areas of law. Chris understands that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to addressing any one particular client matter and makes sure to take the time to understand the client’s specific goals and objectives.

Business
Chris counsels businesses – from start-ups to global manufacturers – in all aspects of business including general corporate governance and drafting, reviewing and negotiating agreements. Chris is proud to work with several of the area’s preeminent businesses, often serving as outside general counsel for all of their business needs.

Chris has developed a particular focus on advising companies in the manufacturing industry, assisting them with a wide range of business and corporate matters. As chair of the firm’s Manufacturing Industry Group, Chris leads a team dedicated to helping manufacturers succeed in a complex and competitive marketplace. The group provides proactive, cross-disciplinary counsel to help clients manage risk, strengthen operations, and stay ahead of evolving industry demands.

Chris works closely with clients to address every stage of the manufacturing process, with particular focus on supply chain logistics, supply and development agreements, contract review, confidentiality agreements, and raw material sourcing contracts. He often serves as outside general counsel, taking a proactive and practical approach to representation that helps clients anticipate challenges, prevent issues before they arise, and streamline their day-to-day legal needs.

Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
Chris also handles mergers and acquisitions on both the buy-side and sell-side, helping clients through the complex process from the letter of intent, due diligence, and consummation of the transaction. Chris has worked on transactions ranging from small sales/acquisitions up to multi-million-dollar deals.

Real Estate
Chris handles a wide range of real estate matters, including residential and commercial transactions of all shapes and sizes, including sales, purchases and leases. Chris serves as a mediator for the Realtors Association of York and Adams Counties’ (RAYAC) dispute resolution system. He brings his unique perspective and background having represented buyers, sellers and homebuilders in this process to guide the parties in resolving their dispute.

Land Use and Zoning
Chris guides clients through all phases of the land development process including zoning. He has successfully secured needed zoning relief for clients of all sizes, including special exceptions, conditional uses, variances and rezoning. In addition, Chris has successfully defended numerous clients against alleged zoning violations. He also served as objectors’ counsel in opposing zoning matters, including through the appellate process. In this role, Chris has successfully opposed zoning and other land uses that would have adversely affected his client’s property and community.

Property Disputes
Chris has successfully represented clients in property disputes, including bringing and defending adverse possession and related claims, alleged encroachments, nuisances and the like.

Construction
Chris works with homebuilders and developers on all facets of project development from acquisition to forming planned communities and home sales. He counsels homebuilders and remodelers on matters including contracts, compliance with the Pennsylvania Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA), and related litigation. He also has experience representing clients in construction code matters, including interpretation and responding to alleged code violations.

Prior to joining Barley Snyder, Chris was director of government affairs for the York County Builders Association where he was responsible for keeping members informed of current laws or proposed changes affecting the residential building industry. Chris then went on to serve as executive director to the late State Senator Michael L. Waugh, working in the Senator’s Capitol Office where he was involved in policy development and legislation, including changes to the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act, the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act and the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code.

MEMBERSHIPS
  • York County Builders Association
  • York County Bar Association
  • Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Keystone
PRESENTATIONS
  • “Preparation for Zoning,” Wake Up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (May 2024)
  • “A Roundtable Discussion on Due Diligence for Real Estate Construction Projects,” Wake Up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (March 2022)
  • “Landlord-Tenant Law: From Lease to Eviction”, CLE Program Harrisburg (March 2017)
  • “Common Legal Issues for New Businesses”, PA Treasury’s Small Business Initiative at York College (October 2016)

Charles B. Haws

Charles Haws concentrates his practice in environmental, real estate, municipal law and food & agribusiness. He provides environmental counseling services on a full range of environmental issues to the firm’s municipal, industrial, and real estate development clients. He assists municipal clients on environmental compliance and permitting matters, both as permittees and with respect to development within their jurisdiction. He works with real estate development clients in issues from due diligence through final land development approval.

Charles counsels clients on all aspects of mineral resource issues, including oil and gas leasing, coal, industrial minerals and bluestone mining, as well as alternative energy projects including wind energy and biofuels projects.  His regulatory background allows thorough representation from negotiation of agreements, permitting and compliance issues, and litigation at local, state, and federal level.

Food & Agribusiness

– He has represented a client in the acquisition of a food processing/residual waste processing facility, including the transfer of all necessary permits and authorizations.

– While at DEP, he handled enforcement actions involving improper storage and disposal of food processing waste.

– He has represented farming clients on enforcement actions and third party appeals involving E&S, NPDES and nutrient management issues.

– He represented farming clients on alternative energy projects including solar systems and biomass power generation.

Prior to joining Barley Snyder, he spent nine years with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Office of Chief Counsel, where he provided litigation and regulatory counseling services to a broad range of programs. He worked closely with public water supply management, coal and industrial mineral mining, waste management, environmental cleanup, emergency response, water quality and laboratory accreditation. He provided counseling to these programs on permitting and regulatory compliance, negotiating compliance, penalty and permitting agreements. He also handled a wide range of appeals and enforcement actions with the Environmental Hearing Board, Commonwealth Court, Pennsylvania Supreme Court and the Courts of Common Pleas throughout the state.

RECOGNITION
  • The Best Lawyers in America®, Environmental Law (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026), Energy Law (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
MEMBERSHIPS
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association, Energy & Environmental Law Section, Board member
  • Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration
PRESENTATIONS
  • – “Unique Issues with Urban Development”, A Morning on Real Estate (June 2019)
  • “Land Development and Environmental Challenges”, Wake up with Barley: A Morning on Real Estate (September 2017)

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