What sets a law firm apart as the best in a highly competitive legal landscape like Pennsylvania? Is it their history of landmark victories, their commitment to innovation, or the trust they inspire in clients? In Pennsylvania, some law firms have risen above the rest, combining expertise, client satisfaction, and impactful contributions to the legal field. From handling billion-dollar transactions to championing social justice causes, these firms exemplify excellence. This blog dives into the top 8 best law firms in Pennsylvania.
- Ballard Spahr LLP
- Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
- Reed Smith LLP
- Cozen O’Connor
- Dechert LLP
- DLA Piper
- Blank Rome LLP
- Archer & Greiner, P.C.
1) Ballard Spahr LLP
Ballard Spahr LLP is a powerhouse in Pennsylvania’s legal landscape, with a legacy spanning over a century. Headquartered in Philadelphia, this nationally recognized firm boasts more than 650 attorneys across 15 offices in the U.S. In 2023, it was ranked among the top law firms in the country for its excellence in banking, real estate, intellectual property, and litigation services.
The firm represents clients from Fortune 500 companies to government agencies, consistently achieving groundbreaking outcomes. Its litigation team, known for its aggressive advocacy, secured multi-million-dollar verdicts in high-stakes cases last year. Ballard Spahr’s real estate practice played a pivotal role in transactions exceeding $20 billion in 2023, solidifying its reputation for handling complex deals.
Diversity and pro bono work are core to the firm’s mission; in 2024, Ballard Spahr dedicated over 60,000 hours to pro bono cases, addressing critical social justice issues. Its commitment to innovation and legal tech ensures clients receive cutting-edge solutions in a dynamic legal environment.
2) Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP is a global legal giant headquartered in Philadelphia with deep roots in Pennsylvania. As of 2024, the firm employs over 2,200 attorneys across 30 offices worldwide, making it one of the largest law firms globally. Known for its robust corporate, labor, and litigation practices, Morgan Lewis represents a staggering number of Fortune 500 companies (approximately 75%) across diverse industries.
In 2023, the firm achieved significant recognition, ranking among the top firms in corporate law and securities by Chambers USA. Its labor and employment practice is particularly noteworthy, having handled over 1,000 employment litigation matters last year alone. The firm also has a strong pro bono program, dedicating over 100,000 hours annually to causes such as immigration rights, housing, and education access.
Morgan Lewis’s innovative approach to legal solutions includes its use of cutting-edge technology and AI-powered tools to streamline complex legal processes, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness for its clients. Its commitment to diversity, sustainability, and community engagement makes it a leader in shaping the modern legal profession.
3) Reed Smith LLP
Reed Smith LLP, originating in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a globally recognized legal powerhouse. Boasting a network of over 1,800 attorneys across 30 offices worldwide, the firm is renowned for its excellence in financial services, energy, healthcare, and complex litigation. In 2023, Reed Smith was ranked as one of the top 20 global law firms, reflecting its international influence and innovative legal strategies.
The firm’s financial services practice is particularly notable, having advised on transactions worth over $200 billion. Reed Smith’s litigation team has a strong record of securing favorable outcomes in high-stakes cases, including multi-jurisdictional disputes and class actions. Its energy practice has also been at the forefront, advising major clients on renewable energy projects and regulatory compliance.
A leader in diversity, Reed Smith has consistently earned accolades for its inclusion initiatives, with women and minorities making up nearly 50% of its leadership roles. Also, the firm dedicated over 80,000 pro bono hours in 2023 to causes ranging from asylum cases to environmental protection, solidifying its commitment to community impact.
4) Cozen O’Connor
Cozen O’Connor, headquartered in Philadelphia, is one of Pennsylvania’s most distinguished law firms, with over 800 attorneys across 31 offices in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Founded in 1970, the firm has earned a stellar reputation for its expertise in litigation, corporate law, and insurance defense.
The firm’s insurance practice is particularly noteworthy, having handled claims worth billions annually, making it a trusted name among global insurers. Its corporate practice has also been instrumental in advising on mergers and acquisitions, with deals exceeding $50 billion. Beyond its impressive client roster, Cozen O’Connor is known for its robust pro bono initiatives, dedicating over 75,000 hours in 2023 to cases involving civil rights and economic justice.
Cozen O’Connor’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and community engagement has cemented its position as a forward-thinking leader in the legal industry. Its integrated approach ensures clients receive comprehensive and cutting-edge legal solutions.
5) Dechert LLP
Dechert LLP, headquartered in Philadelphia, is a global legal powerhouse known for its expertise in corporate law, financial services, and litigation. With over 1,000 attorneys across 21 offices worldwide, the firm handles complex, high-stakes matters for leading companies and institutions. In 2023, The American Lawyer ranked Dechert among the top firms for innovation and excellence in financial services and private equity.
The firm’s private equity practice stands out, advising on transactions worth over $250 billion. Dechert is also a leader in white-collar defense and securities litigation, successfully representing clients in cases involving regulatory investigations and corporate fraud. Its financial services team is at the forefront of regulatory compliance and fund formation, serving some of the world’s largest asset managers.
Dechert is deeply committed to diversity and pro bono work, dedicating over 100,000 hours annually to issues like immigration, housing, and voting rights. The firm’s use of advanced legal technologies ensures clients receive efficient and innovative solutions tailored to their needs, making Dechert a standout in Pennsylvania and the global legal community.
6) DLA Piper
DLA Piper, with a strong presence in Pennsylvania, is one of the world’s largest law firms, employing over 4,000 attorneys in more than 40 countries. Renowned for its global reach and multidisciplinary expertise, the firm offers top-tier services in areas like corporate law, intellectual property, and real estate. In 2023, DLA Piper was ranked among the top 10 global law firms by Law360, highlighting its prowess in handling complex cross-border transactions and litigation.
The firm has been instrumental in advising on high-profile mergers and acquisitions, with deals totaling over $300 billion last year. Its real estate practice is particularly distinguished, representing some of the largest developers and investors in projects worth billions. DLA Piper also excels in technology and data protection, providing cutting-edge legal strategies to clients navigating digital transformations and cybersecurity challenges.
Diversity and inclusion are integral to the firm’s mission, with women and minorities comprising a significant portion of its leadership. In 2023, the firm contributed over 200,000 pro bono hours globally, addressing issues like human trafficking, environmental protection, and education access. DLA Piper’s unparalleled global footprint and innovative legal solutions make it a leader in Pennsylvania and beyond.
7) Blank Rome LLP
Blank Rome LLP, headquartered in Philadelphia, is a leading law firm known for its comprehensive legal services and client-focused approach. With over 600 attorneys across 13 offices nationwide, the firm excels in corporate law, maritime law, real estate, and litigation. In 2023, Blank Rome ranked among the top firms for commercial litigation and bankruptcy law, underscoring its strong reputation in complex legal matters.
The firm’s maritime practice is a standout, representing global shipping companies in regulatory, litigation, and transactional matters. Its corporate practice has advised on mergers and acquisitions exceeding $50 billion, showcasing its ability to navigate intricate business landscapes. Blank Rome’s litigation team is equally formidable, having secured major victories in high-stakes cases involving financial services and intellectual property.
Blank Rome also prioritizes pro bono work and diversity. In 2023, the firm dedicated over 70,000 hours to pro bono initiatives, addressing issues such as veteran support and housing justice. Also, its focus on fostering an inclusive workplace has earned it numerous accolades, making Blank Rome a trusted and forward-thinking leader in Pennsylvania’s legal community.
8) Archer & Greiner, P.C.
Archer & Greiner, P.C., with its roots in the Greater Philadelphia area, is a highly respected full-service law firm serving Pennsylvania and beyond. With over 175 attorneys across nine offices, the firm specializes in business law, litigation, labor and employment, real estate, and estate planning. Known for its client-centric approach, Archer & Greiner has garnered recognition for providing innovative legal solutions to businesses and individuals alike.
In 2023, the firm handled business transactions exceeding $10 billion and represented clients in complex litigation cases across various industries. Its real estate practice is particularly noteworthy, managing large-scale projects such as commercial developments and municipal planning. The labor and employment team has been pivotal in advising companies on evolving workplace regulations and compliance.
Archer & Greiner is also deeply committed to community service, dedicating thousands of hours annually to pro bono work supporting underserved communities. The firm’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion has led to a workplace where collaboration thrives, making it a prominent name in Pennsylvania’s legal landscape. Clients value its ability to blend regional focus with national-level expertise, ensuring exceptional results in every case.
