Stephen’s broad representative background allows him to understand the individual, unique needs of each client and work to deliver solutions in their respective matters. His career has afforded him the great opportunity to represent many different clients including Fortune 500 companies, public utilities, financial institutions, small businesses, entrepreneurs, developers, government entities, religious organizations, ethnic grocery stores, schools, nonprofits, neighborhood groups, and homeowners and condominium associations.

Stephen concentrates his practice on environmental and energy matters. Stephen assists clients with:

• Negotiating environmental issues in complex U.S. and international transactions.

• Remediating contaminated property under federal and state environmental programs.

• Complying with environmental permits.

• Developing renewable energy projects.

• Defending against environmental liability suits in state and federal court.

Before joining Blank Rome, Stephen practiced with a Pittsburgh-area real estate law firm, where he focused on real estate, zoning, land use, and other transactional and litigation matters.

During law school, Stephen received a focus of study certificate in environmental law and policy and represented the University of Pittsburgh at the National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition. Stephen completed internships with the Pitt Law Environmental Law Clinic and the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh. Also, Stephen was a legal extern for President Judge Emeritus Kate Ford Elliott of the Pennsylvania Superior Court.

Earlier in his career, Stephen was a policy manager for the Mayor’s Office of the City of Pittsburgh, where he worked with government, nonprofit, business, school district, and community stakeholders to improve educational outcomes for students, enhance neighborhood development initiatives, and reduce crime.

Outside the Firm

Stephen has participated in numerous leadership programs and volunteer activities. He was part of both the Allegheny County Bar Association’s and Leadership Pittsburgh’s Leadership Development Initiatives.

A two-sport athlete in college, Stephen was a two-year starter on the football team, earning ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District distinction, and was a captain of the track and field team. Stephen currently volunteers for his local YMCA and is a member of its Property Committee.

Stephen lives outside of Philadelphia with his wife and two kids. Although he now lives in Philadelphia, Stephen is true to his Pittsburgh roots and maintains his avid Pittsburgh sports allegiances.