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Attorneys

You can count on the highly experienced team of attorneys here at Peacock Keller, LLP. Fully licensed in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio, our attorneys have built a great reputation over the years and are well-known throughout the region. Our firm is a member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the American Bar Association. To schedule an appointment and speak to one of our attorneys listed below, please call (724) 471-6650.

Eva H. Ahern

Partner

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Richard J. Amrhein

Senior Counsel

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Timothy R. Berggren

Of Counsel

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Dominic A. Carrola

Associate

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Brandon B. Coneby

Of Counsel

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Wesley A. Cramer

Senior Counsel

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Stephen P. Curry

Partner

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John E. Egers, Jr.

Of Counsel

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Donald B. Formoso

Partner

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Jonathan G. Higie

Managing Partner

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Rachel K. Lozosky

Partner

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Dorothy A. Milovac

Associate

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Eric VanKirk

Peter T. Patsakis

Associate

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Susan T. Roberts

Partner

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Eric VanKirk

Christian E. Sesek

Associate

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Eric VanKirk

Thomas A. Steele

Partner

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Eric VanKirk

Eric G. VanKirk

Associate

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Eric VanKirk

Robert J. Waine

Of Counsel

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Eric VanKirk

Jason D. Witt

Of Counsel

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Eva H. Ahern

Partner

Contact Eva H. Ahern

eahern@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Estates and Trusts


Education

â–º J.D., Duquesne University

â–º B.S., Lehigh University 


Professional History

â–º Law Clerk, Hon. Mark Mascara

â–º Trust Officer, PNC Bank, N.A.


Speaking & Writing

â–º Presented to Caring Mission on estate planning and Medicaid   


Memberships & Awards

Professional:

â–º Pennsylvania, Allegheny County and Washington County Bar Associations 

â–º President, WCBA Real Property, Probate, and Trust Section

Eva H. Ahern graduated from Lehigh University in 2005, with a Bachelor of Science in Earth and Environmental Science and a minor in Economics. In 2008, she earned her Juris Doctorate from Duquesne University School of Law.


Eva served as a law clerk for the late Honorable Mark Mascara, Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Washington County, Pennsylvania. At the conclusion of her clerkship, she worked as a Trust Officer with PNC Bank, N.A.


Eva began working for Peacock Keller in 2012 and concentrates her practice in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate Administration and Elder Law. She is admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. She is a member of the Pennsylvania and Washington County Bar Associations and is the past President of the Washington County Bar Association’s Real Property, Probate and Trust Section, and serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Blueprints.

Eva H. Ahern

Richard J. Amrhein

Senior Counsel

Contact Richard J. Amhrein
ramrhein@peacockkeller.com
(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Business

Energy

Estates and Trusts

Real Estate


Education

â–º J.D., University of Pittsburgh
â–º B.A., University of Pittsburgh 


Professional History

â–º Judicial Clerk, Superior Court of Pennsylvania

Speaking & Writing

â–º Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants, August 2012, Marcellus Shale Conference, “Trusts and Estate Planning”   


Memberships & Awards

Professional:

â–º Pennsylvania, Allegheny County and Washington County Bar Associations 

Civic:

â–º Knights of Columbus 

Richard J. Amrhein

Rick’s practice is concentrated on estate planning, especially for oil and gas, and estate administration. He also provides his counsel regarding contracts, business organizations, real estate, and mineral law. 

Richard J. Amrhein

Timothy R. Berggren

Of Counsel

Contact Timothy Berggren

timothy.berggren@peacockkeller.com
(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Estates and Trusts

Municipal Law

School Law


Education

â–º J.D., Duquesne University
â–º B.S., Grove City College


Memberships

Professional:

â–º Washington County Bar Association
â–º Pennsylvania School Boards Association

Tim graduated from Grove City College in 1983, and Duquesne University School of Law in 1994. Tim concentrates his practice in public sector law, litigation, business law and estates. In practice for himself for over 25 years, he joined Peacock Keller in 2021. As solicitor for school districts and municipalities, Tim has a strong background in public sector labor relations, litigation, tax assessments, personnel matters, and contract matters. In the business area of his practice, Tim has represented companies in acquisitions, transactions, business formation, labor issues, litigation, and business disputes. His other area of concentration is in the administration of estates, where he works with the families of loved ones to fulfill the wishes of their family members and make their responsibilities as executors/administrators less stressful. Tim's experience allows him to have a close relationship with his clients and work with them at a personal level to address the issues they face which require legal expertise in the ever-complex world in which we live.

Timothy R. Berggren

Dominic A. Carrola

Associate

Contact Dominic A. Carrola

dcarrola@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Litigation

Personal Injury


Education

â–º J.D., Duquesne University School of Law (cum laude)

â–º B.S., California University of Pennsylvania (summa cum laude) 


Professional History:

â–º Attorney, Baum O’Connor Cullen Chmiel (formerly Matis Baum O’Connor)

â–ºAssistant District Attorney, Washington County


Awards

â–º 2019 CourtCall Award for Excellence in Trial Advocacy

â–ºThe Shalom Moot Court Award for â–ºExcellence in Trial Advocacy (2019)

â–ºGerald K. Gibson Memorial Award for Excellence in Bankruptcy (2019)

â–ºAmerican Bankruptcy Institute Medal of Excellence (2019)

â–ºProfessor Louis Del Duca Memorial Award (Pennsylvania Bar Association) (2019)


Bar Admissions

â–º Pennsylvania

â–ºUnited States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit

Dominic A. Carrola concentrates his practice in the areas of civil litigation, medical malpractice defense, plaintiff’s representation, and car accident claims. At Peacock Keller, Dominic is excited to expand his practice to include landlord-tenant disputes, tax assessment appeals, and general civil litigation.


Prior to joining Peacock Keller, Dominic proudly served the residents of Washington County for nearly three years as an assistant district attorney. As an assistant district attorney, Dominic was responsible for prosecuting everything from violent and sexual crimes to firearm- and drug-related offenses, across the entire County. Following his stint as a prosecutor, Dominic joined the Pittsburgh-based law firm Matis Baum O’Connor (now Baum O’Connor Cullen Chmiel) where he expanded his skills to include civil litigation with a focus on the defense of healthcare providers facing medical malpractice lawsuits.


In addition to practicing as a litigator, Dominic is a skilled appellate advocate and cases which he tried to conviction as an assistant district attorney have been affirmed on appeal. Dominic also competed nationally, while at Duquesne Law School, as an appellate advocate. In 2019, he placed as a Quarterfinalist at the National Energy and Sustainability Moot Court Competition hosted by the West Virginia University College of Law and, in 2018, he placed as a top-four Semi-finalist at the Seigenthaler-Sutherland Cup National First Amendment Moot Court Competition held in Washington, D.C., where he also won an award for Best Oralist. Dominic’s law review article, also accomplished during his time at Duquesne Law School, explores Eight Amendment limitations on juvenile sentencing.


In his free time, Dominic plays jazz piano with the Washington Jazz Orchestra and composes songs and concert music. Dominic’s compositions have been performed by the Washington Symphony Orchestra and his original musical, Yet Another Funeral, was premiered at his alma mater, California University in April 2016. 


Wesley A. Cramer

Brandon D. Coneby

Of Counsel

Contact Brandon D. Coneby

bconeby@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Administrative Law

Energy

Environmental Compliance

Leasing; Litigation



Education

â–º J.D., Duquesne University

â–ºB.S., The Pennsylvania State University




Memberships & Awards

Professional:

â–º Allegheny County Bar Association

â–ºWashington County Bar Association

â–ºPast President: ACBA Environment and Energy Law Section


Civic:

â–º Founding Member – Rebuilding Their Future Foundation, Inc.

â–º Board Member – Adams Township Training and Aquatic Community Center

Brandon has over twenty years of experience in representing clients in connection with federal, state and local environmental laws and regulatory programs, with a primary focus on environmental issues relating to energy extraction (coal and oil and gas). Over the course of his legal career, Brandon has been involved with a variety of legal matters relating to coal extraction and natural gas exploration, production and distribution. He has counseled energy companies, chemical companies and landowners on complex environmental matters involving: water loss and subsidence, oil and gas production, remediation, wastewater management, title disputes and compliance with federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations. He has negotiated numerous oil and gas leases and has brought and defended countless actions relating to subsurface rights in leases dating back to the 1950s. He routinely represents companies of all sizes and individuals before federal and state regulatory agencies, such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. In addition, he has significant experience practicing before federal and state administrative tribunals, including the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission and the Pennsylvania Environmental Hearing Board.


In addition to his energy practice, a portion of Brandon's practice is devoted to advising clients on issues relating to the aquatics industry. He has advised municipalities and aquatic facility owners on various issues associated with operating aquatic facilities including:  lifeguarding and staffing requirements, steps necessary to comply with the Virginia Graeme Pool and Spa Safety Act and how to implement requirements imposed upon aquatic facilities under the Americans With Disabilities Act.  He has also represented homeowner associations and homeowners in lawsuits involving the construction of swimming pools and swimming pool accidents.  He is a certified instructor for the National Pool and Spa Foundation's Certified Pool Operator course, a certified lifeguard instructor for the American Red Cross and frequently speaks on aquatic-related topics at various seminars throughout the United States. 


Wesley A. Cramer

Wesley A. Cramer

Senior Counsel

Contact Wesley A. Cramer

wcramer@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Energy


Education

â–º J.D., Ohio Northern University

â–º B.A., West Virginia University 

â–º A.A., Valley Forge Military College 


Speaking & Writing

â–º Lectured before several professional legal and educational organizations on a variety of subjects including coal leases, coal mining, subsidence, oil and gas well pluggings, and real estate tax exemptions


Memberships & Awards

Professional:

â–º Real Property, Probate and Trust Law Section of the Pennsylvania Bar Association

â–º Washington County Bar Association


Civic:

â–º Guest speaker on a variety of ecclesiastical topics at Christian church conferences held throughout the United States, Canada and Israel

For more than 40 years, Wes Cramer has assisted primarily coal producers in a wide variety of matters pertaining to land and mineral title analysis, property acquisition, development, and operations. Wes has served as an expert witness in cases involving coal rights, railroad easements, and coal leases. He believes that alternative dispute resolution techniques such as mediation and arbitration frequently bring cases to a conclusion more quickly and economically than litigation. As such, Wes has participated in resolving land and energy-related disputes through mediation and arbitration. He has been appointed by the court to serve as a master-in-partition to resolve disputes among property co-owners. 

Wesley A. Cramer

Stephen P. Curry

Partner

Contact Stephen P. Curry

scurry@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Energy

Real Estate


Education

â–º J.D., Duquesne University

â–º B.A., California University of Pennsylvania 


Memberships & Awards

â–º Pennsylvania, Washington County and Greene County Bar Associations 

For over 20 years Steve has represented local and national energy producers in matters involving longwall mining, coal mine subsidence, coalbed methane gas recovery, underground gas storage and shale gas recovery. As a member of Peacock Keller's Energy Department, he has produced title abstracts and produced legal opinions on thousands of titles to tracts of coal and operating rights involving some of the world's largest deep coal mines in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Likewise, he has produced legal opinions on oil and gas ownership. Additionally, Steve's practice involves all aspects of residential real estate, estate planning and estate administration.

Stephen P. Curry

For over 20 years Steve has represented local and national energy producers in matters involving longwall mining, coal mine subsidence, coalbed methane gas recovery, underground gas storage and shale gas recovery. As a member of Peacock Keller's Energy Department, he has produced title abstracts and produced legal opinions on thousands of titles to tracts of coal and operating rights involving some of the world's largest deep coal mines in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Likewise, he has produced legal opinions on oil and gas ownership. Additionally, Steve's practice involves all aspects of residential real estate, estate planning and estate administration.

Stephen P. Curry

John E. Egers, Jr.

Of Counsel

Contact John E. Egers, Jr.

john.egers@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Employment Law

Litigation




Education

â–º J.D., Duquesne University

â–º B.A., Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, Summa Cum Laude with Honors Program Degree



Professional History

â–º Somerset County Law Librarian

â–º Law Clerk, Hon. Kim R. Gibson, Somerset Court of Common Pleas

â–º Law Clerk, Hon. Kim R. Gibson, U.S. District Court, Western District of Pennsylvania

â–º  Sole Practitioner, John E. Egers, Jr. Attorney at Law

â–º Career Associate, Orrick, Herrington and Sutcliffe, LLP

â–º Associate, Julian Law Firm



Memberships & Awards

Professional:

â–º Pennsylvania Bar Association

â–º Washington County Bar Association

Director, Board of Directors 2023-2024

â–º Westmoreland Bar Association

â–º Pennsylvania Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

â–º National Employment Lawyers Association

â–º Western Pennsylvania Employment Lawyers Association


Bar Admissions:

â–º Pennsylvania

â–º U.S. District Court, Western District of Pennsylvania

â–º U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit

â–º U.S. Court of Appeals, Fourth Circuit

â–ºSupreme Court of the United States

Problem-solving for clients is what motivates John. John’s first interest in the law was in the criminal justice field. Upon entering law school, his interests broadened into other areas. Having served in two judicial clerkships before entering private practice, John experienced the judicial decision-making process firsthand in the state and federal trial courts. In private practice, John has represented clients in a host of various matters before the Pennsylvania state and federal trial and appellate courts, for both the plaintiffs and defendants. John’s experience includes a wide range of legal areas including breaches of contract, civil rights, criminal defense, collections, expungements, juvenile delinquency, protection from abuse, real estate disputes, eminent domain, unemployment compensation, wage and hour claims, employment discrimination and harassment matters. John is also experienced in forming corporations, drafting wills and powers of attorney and probating estates. 

 

A native of Washington, Pennsylvania, John grew up in a working-class household, the son of a machinist and a nurse. The only attorney in his family, John knows how difficult and complex the legal system may seem to an outsider. He recognizes that at its heart, practicing law requires an attorney to listen to client’s issues and concerns while remaining approachable and understood by his clients. 

Donald B. Formoso

Donald B. Formoso

Partner

Contact Donald B. Formoso

dformoso@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Business

Estates and Trusts

Real Estate


Education

â–º J.D., University of Pittsburgh

â–º B.A., University of Pittsburgh 

    • University Honors College – Politics & Philosophy 


Professional History

â–º Law Clerk, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

â–º Financial Analyst, The Ayco Company, L.P.




Memberships & Awards

Professional:

â–º Allegheny County, Washington County, Pennsylvania and American Bar Associations

â–º Past President: WCBA Real Property, Probate, and Trust Section

â–º Named to the 2019 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Star List 


Civic:

â–º Board of Directors, Washington County Habitat for Humanity

â–º Board of Directors, The Olivia Scott Foundation

â–º Board of Directors, Peters Township Chamber of Commerce

â–º Knights of Columbus, Holy Child Council 

â–º Counsel, Senior Pet and Animal Rescue (SPAAR)

Don concentrates his practice in the areas of business and corporate law, estates and trusts, and real estate. He provides counsel to business owners with respect to start-up, mergers and acquisitions of existing enterprises, commercial transactions and contracts, corporate governance, and shareholder agreements. As outside general counsel to numerous companies throughout Western Pennsylvania and across a diverse number of industries and professions, Don is uniquely equipped to serve clients on a wide variety of issues challenging business owners and executives at any stage of the organization’s maturity. Whether just beginning, facing a major change, or looking to exit, corporate clients can trust that he will work closely and attentively with them to achieve their desired outcome.

 

In addition, Don prepares Wills, Powers of Attorney documents, and a wide range of trusts - all tailored to each client’s specific circumstances and with an eye toward tax savings. He further advises clients regarding estate and trust administration, estate and gift tax planning, special needs planning, and business succession planning. Don also represents clients in relation to commercial real estate development and leasing and has broad experience in representing borrowers in negotiating commercial loans and other financial transactions.

Donald B. Formoso

Jonathan G. Higie

Managing Partner

Contact Jonathan G. Higie

jhigie@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Business

Energy

Real Estate

School Law


Education

â–º J.D., Dickinson School of Law

â–º B.A., Dickinson College 


Speaking & Writing

â–º Co-presenter, "The Mechanics of Title Examination"

â–º Seminar Presenter, "Mechanics of Starting a Small Business" 


Memberships & Awards

Professional:

â–º American, Pennsylvania, Allegheny County and Washington County Bar Associations


Civic:

â–º Board of Directors, Washington Industrial Development Corporation

â–º Past President, Group Home, Inc. of Washington, PA

â–º Past Board of Directors, Allegheny County Special Olympics

For over 30 years Jonathan has assisted clients navigate a myriad of transactional law issues including real estate, oil and gas title and acquisitions and business formation and operation. Specifically, he represents lenders, sellers, and buyers in both residential and commercial real estate transactions. As a licensed title insurance agent, Jonathan has also acted as a title agent on transactions ranging from home purchases to multimillion dollar commercial sales and acquisitions. 


Jonathan also represents both landowners and energy companies in all manner of mineral title and acquisition transactions and has reviewed and issued well over 1000 mineral title opinions. 


In addition to the real estate and mineral practice, Jonathan has formed and counseled companies on business and general counsel issues.


The core of Jonathan’s client representation philosophy is providing cost efficient, personal, and prompt attention to client matters with practical, common-sense solutions.


Jonathan is a past President of Allegheny County Special Olympics and Group Home, Inc of Washington. He has served the Washington County Bar Association as an Executive Committee member and as President of the Washington County Bar Association Young Lawyers Division. Jonathan also was the Managing Partner of Peacock Keller from 2008-1014 and returned to the position in 2022. 


When not in the office, Jonathan enjoys spending time at Chautauqua Lake with his family and playing golf at courses throughout western Pennsylvania. Jonathan resides in Cecil Township with his wife Lisa. 

Jonathan G. Higie

Rachel K. Lozosky

Partner

Contact Rachel K. Lozosky

rlozosky@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Employment Law

School Law


Education

â–º J.D., University of Pittsburgh

â–º B.A., Washington & Jefferson College 


Professional History

â–º Vanderman Law Offices


Speaking & Writing

â–º "Attorney-Client Privilege and Its Application Under Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law and Sunshine Act: Ethical Considerations for School District Solicitors", Seminar Presenter

â–º "Pennsylvania Special Education Law", CLE Program Presenter 

â–º “Pennsylvania’s Child Protective Services Law: What You Need to Know", Seminar Presenter


Memberships & Awards

Professional:

â–º Elected President, Pennsylvania School Board Solicitors Association (2021)

       • President-Elect, Pennsylvania School Board Solicitors Association (2020)

       • Secretary, Pennsylvania School Board Solicitors Association

â–º Past Regional Director, Pennsylvania School Board Solicitors Association

â–º Member, Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Resources Organization (SHPRO)

â–º Public Relations/Law Day Committee - Washington County Bar Association

â–º 2013 Finalist, Washington County Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Award

â–º Named to the 2019 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Star List


Civic:

â–º Volunteer - Horse ‘N Soul Therapeutic Riding Program

â–º Lector & CCD Instructor - St. Katharine Drexel Parish 

Rachel K. Lozosky is passionate about educating, counseling, and advocating for her clients. Hailing from a family of educators and having grown up as the daughter of a school superintendent, Rachel's personal appreciation of the challenges and rewards of work in the Pennsylvania public school system has greatly benefitted her clients in her work for over a decade as a school solicitor. Rachel is experienced in the broad range of issues involved in representing school districts.


Rachel is also well-versed in representing small, mid-size and large employers in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, as well as individual employees. Her employer clients hail from a diverse collection of industries and professional fields, including the manufacturing, construction, finance and healthcare sectors. In both her employment and school law practices, Rachel's clients consistently remark upon her talent for counseling on complex legal issues in a thorough, clear and personable manner. Whether she is drafting company policies, guiding a small business through its first employee discipline matter, or helping a recently terminated employee to understand a severance agreement, Rachel's guidance empowers her clients to make sound decisions and helps to reduce the stress often associated with legal matters.



Rachel's knowledge, experience and relatable style make her a sought-after and frequent speaker on an extensive array of employment and school law topics, including Title IX and other anti-discrimination laws, personnel best practices, and special education. Her clients frequently call upon her to provide training on these and other issues, and she frequently speaks at professional conferences and community engagements. 


Outside of the office, Rachel enjoys spending time with family and time outdoors, particularly gardening, swimming and horseback riding.

Rachel K. Lozosky

Dorothy A. Milovac

Associate

Contact Dorothy A. Milovac

dmilovac@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Business

Estates & Trusts

Real Estate



Education

â–º J.D., Duquesne University

â–º B.A., Washington & Jefferson



Memberships & Awards

â–º Pennsylvania and Washington County Bar Associations



Dorothy aims to provide compassionate, yet objective legal services in the fields of estate planning and administration, real estate, and business law. Having operated her own practice as a hometown attorney for eight years prior to joining Peacock Keller, Dorothy prides herself in establishing trusting, long-lasting relationships with all her clients. 


Oftentimes thoughts of end-of-life planning or real estate transactions may be overwhelming for any individual. Whether it’s drafting a Last Will & Testament, planning for Medicaid qualification, providing support when a loved-one has passed, or assisting with the sale of real estate, Dorothy leverages her past experiences and affable nature in supplying valuable legal services to her clients.

Dorothy A. Milovac

Dorothy aims to provide compassionate, yet objective legal services in the fields of estate planning and administration, real estate, and business law. Having operated her own practice as a hometown attorney for eight years prior to joining Peacock Keller, Dorothy prides herself in establishing trusting, long-lasting relationships with all her clients. 


Oftentimes thoughts of end-of-life planning or real estate transactions may be overwhelming for any individual. Whether it’s drafting a Last Will & Testament, planning for Medicaid qualification, providing support when a loved-one has passed, or assisting with the sale of real estate, Dorothy leverages her past experiences and affable nature in supplying valuable legal services to her clients.

Dorothy A. Milovac

Peter T. Patsakis

Associate

Contact Peter T. Patsakis

ppatsakis@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Energy

Real Estate


Education

â–º J.D. Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University

â–º B.S. Duquesne University 


Professional History

â–ºCNX Gas Company, LLC

â–ºAssociate, Atencio Hall, PLLC


Memberships & Awards

â–º AAPL

â–º CALI Excellence Award – Remedies and Damages, 2011


Bar Admissions

â–ºPennsylvania

â–ºU.S. District Court, Western District of Pennsylvania

Peter T. Patsakis concentrates his practice in the firm’s Energy and Real Estate Group. His practice focuses on advising clients in the development of energy generation projects and the acquisition, sale and trade of commercial real estate assets. Additionally, Peter has extensive experience related to commercial contracts, including, lease and easement agreements, purchase and sale agreements, asset collateralization, unitization documentation and other energy industry-specific operation and maintenance-related agreements.


Peter has a wealth of experience in the energy industry. Prior to joining Peacock Keller, Peter worked as in-house counsel at a leading energy company assisting in the development of natural gas operations, title curative matters, lease review and transactional due diligence. This perspective helps him navigate the complexities of land use and development deals. Most recently, Peter worked for an energy law firm, where he drafted title opinions and advised energy clients in their energy operations in West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio.


Peter graduated from Duquesne University in 2007 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. In 2011, he obtained his Juris Doctorate from the Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University.


Peter, a champion of community service, is active in supporting the AAPL, Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley and the Westmoreland County Food Bank. Peter also is an adjunct professor at Allegheny County Community College.

Susan T. Roberts

Peter T. Patsakis concentrates his practice in the firm’s Energy and Real Estate Group. His practice focuses on advising clients in the development of energy generation projects and the acquisition, sale and trade of commercial real estate assets. Additionally, Peter has extensive experience related to commercial contracts, including, lease and easement agreements, purchase and sale agreements, asset collateralization, unitization documentation and other energy industry-specific operation and maintenance-related agreements.

Peter has a wealth of experience in the energy industry. Prior to joining Peacock Keller, Peter worked as in-house counsel at a leading energy company assisting in the development of natural gas operations, title curative matters, lease review and transactional due diligence. This perspective helps him navigate the complexities of land use and development deals. Most recently, Peter worked for an energy law firm, where he drafted title opinions and advised energy clients in their energy operations in West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio.

Peter graduated from Duquesne University in 2007 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. In 2011, he obtained his Juris Doctorate from the Thomas R. Kline School of Law of Duquesne University.

Peter, a champion of community service, is active in supporting the AAPL, Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley and the Westmoreland County Food Bank. Peter also is an adjunct professor at Allegheny County Community College.


Susan T. Roberts

Susan T. Roberts

Partner

Contact Susan T. Roberts

sroberts@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Employment Law

Litigation


Education

â–º J.D., University of Pittsburgh 

â–º B.A., Arizona State University


Memberships & Awards

â–º Washington and Allegheny County Bar Associations

â–º Southwestern Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg once told law students that a lawyer should use their law degree "to make things a little better for other people." In her 30-year career as an attorney, Susan Roberts has tried to live by those words as she has served her clients with compassion, care, and diligence. Susan has a willingness to listen, which has served her well in her interactions with clients, opposing counsel and the Court. Sometimes it can be the difference between winning and losing a case. Susan has also come to learn that the law is not a science but rather, that there is an art to effective legal practice, and that every client brings their own unique set of goals, objectives, and concerns. 


Susan's primary focus is litigation across several areas, including employment law, commercial law, and contract law. She represents clients in state and federal court, at arbitration and before administrative agencies. She strives every day to provide her clients with practical business and legal solutions to help them navigate the legal landscape.


In her spare time, Susan enjoys hiking, biking, and traveling, and she is known to have left a plane a few times with a parachute on her back.

Susan T. Roberts

Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg once told law students that a lawyer should use their law degree "to make things a little better for other people." In her 30-year career as an attorney, Susan Roberts has tried to live by those words as she has served her clients with compassion, care, and diligence. Susan has a willingness to listen, which has served her well in her interactions with clients, opposing counsel and the Court. Sometimes it can be the difference between winning and losing a case. Susan has also come to learn that the law is not a science but rather, that there is an art to effective legal practice, and that every client brings their own unique set of goals, objectives, and concerns. 


Susan's primary focus is litigation across several areas, including employment law, commercial law, and contract law. She represents clients in state and federal court, at arbitration and before administrative agencies. She strives every day to provide her clients with practical business and legal solutions to help them navigate the legal landscape.


In her spare time, Susan enjoys hiking, biking, and traveling, and she is known to have left a plane a few times with a parachute on her back.

Susan T. Roberts

Christian E. Sesek

Associate

Contact Christian E. Sesek

christian.Sesek@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Business

Estates and Trusts

Real Estate


Education

â–º J.D., Duquesne University School of Law

â–º B.M., Duquesne University

Memberships

â–º Pennsylvania Bar Association

â–º Allegheny County Bar Association

â–º Fayette County Bar Association


Civic:

â–º Pittsburgh Opera New Guard Executive Council Member

â–º Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 32


Bar Admissions:

â–ºPennsylvania

â–ºU.S. District Court, Western District of Pennsylvania

Christian E. Sesek concentrates his practice primarily in the areas of business and corporate law, estates and trusts, and real estate. 


Prior to joining Peacock Keller, Christian worked with a solo practitioner where he provided counsel for commercial transactions, contracts, corporate formation, corporate governance, estate planning, real estate matters, and general litigation.

 

Christian graduated from Duquesne University with a Bachelor of Music with Business Studies, voice concentration, and a minor in economics. In his senior year, he received the Duquesne University Student Life Leadership Award and Duquesne Student Government Association Senior Award. Christian then graduated from Duquesne University School of Law. While in law school, Christian was a recipient of the McGinley Public Service Law Fellowship, which enabled him to clerk for one summer with the Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission. He competed on the Duquesne University Trial Advocacy Team, participated in the Urban Development Practicum, and received the CALI for Excellence in Election Law.


Christian is a native of Brownsville, Pennsylvania, and the first lawyer in his family. He is the son of a steelworker and a social worker, who instilled values of hard work and compassionate advocacy. Christian embraces these values when representing his clients.  


Outside of the office, Christian hosts a show on a local AM radio station, is active in local politics, and regales audiences with his rendition of Rat Pack era standards. 

Aaron W. Smith

Thomas A. Steele

Partner

Contact Thomas A. Steele

thomas.steele@peacockkeller.com

(724) 471-6650


Practice Areas

Litigation


Education

â–º J.D., University of Pittsburgh

â–º B.S., Indiana University of Pennsylvania 


Professional History

â–º Attorney, Robb Leonard Mulvihill, Attorneys At Law

â–º President, SI Contracting, LLC


Memberships & Awards

â–º Pennsylvania, Allegheny County and Washington County Bar Associations 

Tom has extensive experience handling construction related disputes, including, defect claims, payment and performance disputes, mechanics’ lien claims, and EHS regulatory compliance issues.  Prior to entering the legal profession and after proudly serving as a Sergeant in the United States Army, Tom worked as a Construction Safety Manager and operated his own construction company, giving him a unique perspective on the challenges faced in the industry. His wide range of experience in the field includes preparation and negotiation of contracts, land development, municipal zoning applications, and environmental, health and safety compliance. 

Additionally, Tom is well-versed in real estate matters and municipal law, having represented clients with respect to zoning, title issues, landlord-tenant disputes, and tax assessment appeals.  He currently serves as the Chairman of the South Strabane Township Planning Commission. He also has wide-ranging experience in the areas of business and insurance litigation.

Thomas A. Steele

Eric G. VanKirk

Associate

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense

Landlord / Tenant Law

Civil Litigation

Automobile Insurance Litigation


Education

â–ºJ.D., Duquesne University School of Law

â–ºB.S., Duquesne University, A. J. Palumbo School of Business


Bar Admissions

â–ºPennsylvania Bar Association

â–ºWest Virginia Bar Association

â–ºUnited States District Courts for the Western District of Pennsylvania

â–ºSouthern District of West Virginia

As an associate on the litigation team, Eric is involved in many aspects of the law in many different practice areas. At our firm, the litigation section is often the last line of defense, or offense, in a variety of situations that have devolved into a confrontational posture.


Eric leans on his experience in his past career and life experiences in connecting with clients on a personal level and using that connection as motivation to provide the best service he can. He is always willing to take the time to speak to a client and provide an honest assessment of the status and roadmap of the matter.


Eric served as Tipstaff and Law Clerk to the Honorable Michael A. Della Vecchia in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County until entering private practice in 2017. Observing a trial court's docket everyday was an invaluable experience and continues to guide Eric's practice today.


Eric volunteers for the Pro Bono Partnership Expungement project, as well as being a donated food runner for SHIM. Eric also sits on the Advisory Board for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Children's Theater. He enjoys spending his free time with his two daughters, especially in connection with their involvement in the YMCA princess program. 

Erik Vankirk

As an associate on the litigation team, Eric is involved in many aspects of the law in many different practice areas. At our firm, the litigation section is often the last line of defense, or offense, in a variety of situations that have devolved into a confrontational posture.


Eric leans on his experience in his past career and life experiences in connecting with clients on a personal level and using that connection as motivation to provide the best service he can. He is always willing to take the time to speak to a client and provide an honest assessment of the status and roadmap of the matter.


Eric served as Tipstaff and Law Clerk to the Honorable Michael A. Della Vecchia in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County until entering private practice in 2017. Observing a trial court's docket everyday was an invaluable experience and continues to guide Eric's practice today.


Eric volunteers for the Pro Bono Partnership Expungement project, as well as being a donated food runner for SHIM. Eric also sits on the Advisory Board for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Children's Theater. He enjoys spending his free time with his two daughters, especially in connection with their involvement in the YMCA princess program. 

Erik Vankirk

Robert J. Waine

Of Counsel

Practice Areas

Business

Homeowners Associations

Real Estate

Employment, Oil and Gas


Education

â–ºB.A., University of Rochester; J.D., cum laude, from the Pace University School of Law

â–ºB.C.L., Wadham College, University of Oxford


Speaking

â–ºIUP Center for Family Business – Family Business Constitutions: ACC – Corporate Transparency Act: What Every Business Needs to Know.


Bar Admissions

â–ºPennsylvania; U.S. District Court W.D. Pennsylvania; U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit.


Jason joined the firm in 2023, after serving as Assistant General Counsel and Director of Land Management for the largest privately-owned coal mining company in the United States for over a decade. He works in the firm's Energy and Real Estate practice groups where he leverages his education in mining engineering and law, as well as his broad experience in energy, coal, oil, gas, real estate, environmental and corporate law to craft unique solutions to complex legal issues. Jason is from West Virginia, and now lives in Canonsburg, PA.

Erik Vankirk

With an approach that centers on learning about a clients business and listening to the clients needs, for over 30 years Bob has worked to help his clients obtain their goals. Bob has extensive experience representing businesses in a broad spectrum of matters including commercial transactions, corporate formation, real estate, employment issues and litigation. He has been General Counsel for a closely held corporation that operated in multiple states, and was responsible for all legal matters impacting the corporation, including compliance with all federal and state regulatory requirements. Bob’s experience includes negotiating and drafting business acquisition agreements, loan documents, commercial leases, operating agreements, standard form multistate service contracts, and employee handbooks. Bob also has experience representing individuals regarding their interest in medical marijuana companies. In addition, Bob has litigated cases in federal and state court involving contracts, commercial transactions, construction disputes, quiet title actions, and employment matters. 

 

In addition to his corporate practice, Bob represents homeowners’ associations regarding formation and management. He also has experience in the oil and gas industry related to the ownership and leasing of natural gas interests in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio, including the preparation of title opinion. He has extensive experience researching ownership records, estate records and electronic databases to determine the ownership of both surface and mineral rights.

Erik Vankirk

Jason D. Witt

Of Counsel

Practice Areas

Energy

Real Estate


Education

â–ºJ.D., West Virginia University

â–ºB.S., West Virginia University


Bar Admissions

â–ºPennsylvania

â–ºWest Virginia


Jason joined the firm in 2023, after serving as Assistant General Counsel and Director of Land Management for the largest privately-owned coal mining company in the United States for over a decade. He works in the firm's Energy and Real Estate practice groups where he leverages his education in mining engineering and law, as well as his broad experience in energy, coal, oil, gas, real estate, environmental and corporate law to craft unique solutions to complex legal issues. Jason is from West Virginia, and now lives in Canonsburg, PA.

Erik Vankirk

Jason joined the firm in 2023, after serving as Assistant General Counsel and Director of Land Management for the largest privately-owned coal mining company in the United States for over a decade. He works in the firm's Energy and Real Estate practice groups where he leverages his education in mining engineering and law, as well as his broad experience in energy, coal, oil, gas, real estate, environmental and corporate law to craft unique solutions to complex legal issues. Jason is from West Virginia, and now lives in Canonsburg, PA.

Erik Vankirk

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