At least seven lawyers have walked out of the Voorhees, New Jersey office of Philadelphia-based Ballard Spahr. Five came from the real estate practice.
The lawyers, led by office managing partner Benjamin Levin, are apparently striking out on their own. Other names include partners Richard Hluchan, William Hyland Jr. and Mark Shapiro and senior counsel Harvey Shapiro, S. David Brandt and Edward A. Penberthy.
The defections appear to be sudden and unannounced. It is unclear if associates will follow the partners.
Steven W. Suflas, a labor and employment partner, will take over as office managing partner.
Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll employs more than 550 lawyers in twelve offices located throughout the mid-Atlantic corridor and the western US.