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90 years strong
In 1935, McNees Wallace & Nurick was founded during a time of national uncertainty. Even in the midst of the Great Depression, Sterling McNees and Gilbert Nurick saw an opportunity to build a law firm centered not only on legal acumen but also on integrity, service, and lasting relationships.
What began as a single-office practice in Harrisburg has grown into a regional law firm with more than 150 attorneys and a presence across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, and Washington, D.C. For 90 years, we have helped clients navigate shifting industries, changing regulations, and complex challenges. Throughout it all, we have remained committed to one guiding principle: client success is strongest when paired with community support.
Over the past 90 years, McNees has grown steadily and intentionally, shaped by the people we’ve worked with and the communities we’ve served.
A few milestones along the way include:
Practice areas rooted in relationships
We built trusted practices in areas like energy, public finance, construction, labor and employment, and business law. These weren’t selected through market analysis or industry trends. They grew from close work with clients who needed thoughtful, dependable counsel — and who returned to us again and again.
Growth that followed our clients
Our ten offices weren’t opened to plant flags. They emerged from existing relationships. In many cases, clients brought us into new regions, alumni helped establish local ties, and our work naturally expanded across state lines.
A commitment to community from the beginning
Pro bono work, nonprofit partnerships, and civic engagement have always been central to who we are. At every level of the firm, giving back through our time, talent, and treasure is encouraged because it strengthens the communities we serve.
Looking back at 90 years
Brian Jackson, Chair
“Our 90th anniversary is a moment to reflect on what has always made McNees different. We’ve focused on building lasting relationships, doing meaningful work, and creating a firm where people take pride in what they do. That’s what got us here, and that’s what will carry us forward.”
