Law offices of Leisawitz Heller and Barley Snyder merge

The Wyomissing-based law offices of Leisawitz Heller have merged with Lancaster-based Barley Snyder. 

The partners at both firms voted in favor of the transaction that joins Leisawitz Heller’s 14 attorneys, 10 paralegals and eight staff members to the Barley Snyder firm, effective Jan. 1. 

This deal represents the largest one-time combination for Barley Snyder since 1991 when firm leadership made the decision to pursue a regional model, according to a Barley Snyder statement. 

“Thirty years ago, we decided to move outside of our traditional markets in Lancaster, York and Harrisburg and introduce all of central Pennsylvania and beyond to Barley Snyder,” Jeff Lobach, Barley Snyder managing partner, said. “We couldn’t have imagined having a better reception in each of our new markets than we’ve had and continue to have. We’ve been in the Reading market for more than 25 years. Adding this new office is only going to enhance our presence there. We are delighted to be adding these excellent and highly regarded practitioners to our team.” 

The strength Barley Snyder has in the Reading market already – Barley’s downtown Reading office has 14 attorneys – is what helped attract Leisawitz Heller when it began to look for a new firm to partner with, the company statement said. 

“Our cultures lined up very closely,” said Charles J. Phillips, now a partner at Barley Snyder and the former managing partner at Leisawitz Heller. “Barley Snyder shares the same values we do. We conducted an extensive search within our region looking for an opportunity like this. Barley Snyder exceeded our hopes for a firm to combine with. Joining forces with Barley Snyder enables our attorneys and staff to continue our reputation for excellent service, committed professionals, and an open and welcoming environment. The expanded services we can provide, as a part of Barley Snyder, are also appealing to our clients.” 

The new employees will remain at Leisawitz Heller’s former office at 2755 Century Boulevard in Wyomissing. Barley Snyder’s long-time, downtown Reading office in the M&T Bank Building on Fifth Street also will remain open.