About Harlan
Harlan S. Stone: Dedicated Legal Counsel for Municipalities and Developers
Harlan S. Stone is a seasoned legal professional offering comprehensive expertise in public sector law and land use matters. As an attorney with Babst Calland, he provides invaluable legal counsel to municipal governments, authorities, and private developers, specializing in navigating the complexities of municipal permitting, planning, land use regulations, and zoning ordinances. Mr. Stone’s commitment to delivering strategic legal solutions, combined with his extensive litigation experience, makes him a trusted advisor for projects ranging from public park development and walking trail initiatives to complex condemnation proceedings and natural resource management. He is renowned for his meticulous approach, deep understanding of local government procedures, and unwavering advocacy on behalf of his clients.
With decades of experience, Mr. Stone has a proven track record of success across a diverse range of legal areas. He is a highly skilled trial lawyer adept at representing clients in contentious matters, including eminent domain disputes, employment law claims, tax assessment appeals, and PennDOT condemnation proceedings. His representation extends to commercial businesses facing condemnation actions, as well as residential property owners impacted by natural gas pipeline projects. Mr. Stone’s proficiency in handling these sensitive and often complex situations ensures his clients receive the strongest possible defense and the most favorable outcomes.
Mr. Stone’s legal practice is deeply rooted in the Pittsburgh region, where he has cultivated strong relationships with local government bodies and stakeholders. He regularly appears before the Allegheny County Board of Viewers, the City of Pittsburgh Zoning Board of Adjustment, the City of Pittsburgh Planning Commission, and numerous other local government agencies. For over forty years, he has proudly served as solicitor for two water and sewer authorities, offering critical legal support and guidance. Currently, he provides legal services as solicitor for numerous municipalities, authorities, and zoning hearing boards across Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties, demonstrating his sustained commitment to serving the community.
Education and Credentials: Mr. Stone’s legal foundation is built upon a rigorous academic background. He earned his Bachelor of Arts, with honors, from Brown University in 1976, and subsequently received his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 1979, where he was a member of the University of Pittsburgh Law Review – a testament to his exceptional legal scholarship. His expertise is further underscored by his consistent recognition in leading legal directories.
Bar Admissions and Professional Affiliations: Mr. Stone’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of legal practice is reflected in his extensive bar admissions and professional affiliations. He is admitted to practice in Pennsylvania and before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, Supreme Court of the United States, United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, and United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. He is a dedicated member of several prominent organizations, including the Allegheny County Bar Association, Allegheny County & Western Pennsylvania Association of Township Commissioners (AC&WPTAC), Association of Municipal and School Solicitors, and the Local Government Academy. He is also a past president of the Rodef Shalom Congregation, the oldest and largest reform Jewish congregation in southwest Pennsylvania – an honor reflecting his community involvement and leadership.
Awards and Recognition: Mr. Stone’s legal expertise and dedication have been consistently recognized by leading legal organizations. He was listed in the 2026 edition of Best Attorney USA for Municipal Law, and he has been rated as AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, Peer Rated for the Highest Level of Professional Excellence since 2009. This prestigious rating signifies his legal excellence and dedication to client service.
Practice Areas:
- Municipal Law
- Eminent Domain
- Zoning & Land Use
- Tax Assessment Appeals
- Employment Law
- Condemnation Proceedings
Key Strengths: Litigation, Trial Advocacy, Municipal Government Law, Land Use Regulation, Eminent Domain Defense, Complex Legal Matters
