Attorney Profiles

Thomas W. Scott has a diverse practice including land use, public-sector labor law, civil litigation, and appellate advocacy.

A graduate of Dickinson School of Law in 1972, where he was Editor-in Chief of the Dickinson Law Review, Tom Scott is a client-focused counselor and advocate. With over thirty years of experience in virtually every phase of land development, environmental law, as well as employment law, Mr. Scott has gained the knowledge, insight, and ability that makes him peerless in his practice. Mr. Scott's talent for long-term success is evidenced by his representation of the Northeast corridor's premier land developer, as well as the most influential public sector union in PA. He has assisted Fortune 500 companies with CERCLA litigation, and guided clients through regulatory compliance actions, "brown fields" redevelopment issues, and environmental permitting projects.

Speaking about land development issues, Mr. Scott says, "It is really a team effort. I work with the real estate developer as well as the team of engineers to identify and resolve all current and potential issues. It is the only way to do the job well."

Mr. Scott also serves individuals and businesses in the general litigation of protected rights. "Whenever the government is involved as a regulator, it requires the constant vigilance of the legal community to make sure that regulation does not turn into inappropriate interference," says Mr. Scott. "Both state and local governments can threaten people's livelihoods. It is my job to make sure the playing field stays level." In nearly 30 years of interacting with state agencies, Mr. Scott is in a special position to deal with these issues. "In my experience I've come to know the procedures the government uses to 'regulate' businesses. Once you are able to anticipate their moves, you can handle it so much more effectively, protecting your business and your rights."

Mr. Scott also has a vast familiarity with state and federal environmental regulation procedures. "There is a battery of government programs governing air standards, water quality, and all other aspects of the environment. This affects how you run your business, industry, or exercise your personal rights.

"This job is also important because the government can be excessive in both ways--too little as well as too much regulation--depending on how the balance shifts over time. In this case you have to understand the continuum of where you stand over time, and that's a function of experience." Tom Scott, one of Pennsylvania's most respected litigators, can provide the kind of skilled representation that only a lawyer of his considerable experience and background can match.

In addition Mr. Scott deals in the pure appellate process. "Many lawyers may prefer not to handle appeals. At Killian & Gephart we have extensive appellate experience, far beyond the per capita average for a small law firm."