August 30, 2017 / Press Release

Porter Wright expands into Pittsburgh market; Appoints Ellen Freeman as partner-in-charge

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Porter Wright is growing into the Western Pennsylvania market with the opening of an office in Pittsburgh, which will be led by local attorney Ellen Freeman. The expansion marks the firm's first organic growth in 30 years.

Pittsburgh’s thriving business and legal community, coupled with the opportunity to attract talented leadership like Freeman, is what led to the firm’s decision to expand. Establishing a presence in Western Pennsylvania allows the firm to demonstrate its commitment to best serve its existing clients, regardless of geographic region.

The office will be managed by Freeman, a prominent immigration attorney and international adviser, based in the Pittsburgh area. For 18 years she has focused her practice in all facets of employment-based immigration, working closely with organizations around the globe to counsel, educate, lecture and train. Her established reputation makes her well-suited to lead the charge in the firm's growth strategy.

“The firm continues to focus on and invest in its strategic vision. We are excited to grow our Pittsburgh presence and build upon that vision, always with an eye to how we can benefit our clients and advance client service,” said Robert Tannous, Porter Wright’s managing partner. “Finding someone of Ellen’s caliber and capability made the decision to expand into Pittsburgh an easy one.”

About Freeman:
Admitted to practice in Pennsylvania and New York, Freeman focuses her practice in all facets of employment-based immigration; serving as a business partner and problem solver for the corporate, science and medical communities. She is highly active with the American Immigration Lawyers Association and serves on the Editorial Board for Immigration Law for Law360. Freeman is a frequent speaker across the U.S. and internationally, and has published numerous articles on immigration matters. She received her Masters of Public and International Affairs from University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, her J.D. from University of Pittsburgh School of Law and holds her M.A. in Russian Language in Literature with awards from Odessa National University.