Bryan Neft stands as a prominent figure in Pennsylvania’s legal community, combining decades of litigation experience with dedicated public service and a commitment to expanding access to justice.

Education and Early Life

Bryan Neft was born and raised in Pittsburgh. He is the son of a small businessman and a lawyer-turned-home economics teacher. His journey in law began with strong academic foundations. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Neft then pursued his legal education at Boston University School of Law, graduating in 1989.

Legal Career

Early Practice and Specialization

Neft’s legal career spans over three decades, marked by significant achievements and diverse experience. He began as a clerk for the Pennsylvania Superior Court, where he gained valuable insight into judicial review processes. His practice areas evolved to encompass commercial litigation, healthcare law, and product liability, demonstrating remarkable versatility in complex legal matters.

Law Firm Experience

Throughout his career, Neft has worked with several prestigious law firms, including:

• Spilman Thomas & Battle PLLC
• Pietragallo Gordon Alfano Bosick & Raspanti
• Klett Rooney Lieber & Schorling
• Frankovitch Anetakis Colantonio & Simon

Leadership in Legal Organizations

Neft’s commitment to the legal profession extended beyond private practice. He served as president of the Allegheny County Bar Association (ACBA), where he made significant contributions to the legal community. During his presidency, he championed diversity initiatives, particularly focusing on expanding the ACBA’s minority law student Summer Clerkship Program to include LGBTQ+ students and those with disabilities.

Professional Recognition

Neft’s expertise has earned him numerous distinctions, including an AV Preeminent Peer-Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell. He has been nominated by peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America for Commercial Litigation and Litigation-Insurance.

Transition to Politics

Commonwealth Court Campaign

Neft’s transition into politics reflects his dedication to public service and justice. His campaign for Commonwealth Court demonstrates his commitment to protecting individual rights and addressing crucial issues facing Pennsylvania.

Political Platform

His political agenda focuses on several key areas:

• Protection of voting rights
• Environmental justice
• Labor rights
• Educational access
• Reproductive health choices
• Marriage equality

Bar Association Support

The Pennsylvania Bar Association has rated Neft as “recommended,” noting his peers’ recognition of his work ethic, honesty, and commitment to equal justice. This endorsement highlights his reputation for fairness and impartiality in the judicial system.

Community Engagement

Beyond his professional roles, Neft has maintained strong ties to community service. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh and the Board of Trustees for Beth El Congregation of South Hills. His commitment to expanding access to justice is evident in his pro bono work and development of legal clinics in Allegheny County.

Professional Impact

As a member of the Pennsylvania IOLTA board, Neft has worked to oversee legal aid programs across the commonwealth. This demonstrates his dedication to making legal services accessible to those who cannot afford them. His experience practicing in approximately 30 Pennsylvania counties and various appellate courts has given him a comprehensive understanding of the state’s legal landscape.

Currently residing in Pittsburgh’s South Hills with his wife Julie Cohen, an author, and their family, Neft continues to balance his professional commitments with community involvement. His career trajectory showcases the evolution of a dedicated legal professional into a public servant committed to improving Pennsylvania’s judicial system.

His extensive experience in complex litigation, combined with his leadership in professional organizations and community service, positions him as a significant figure in Pennsylvania’s legal and political landscape. Whether in private practice or public service, Neft’s career demonstrates a consistent commitment to advancing justice and improving the legal profession for all Pennsylvanians.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bryan Neft

What is Bryan Neft’s educational background?

Bryan Neft earned his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania and his J.D. from Boston University School of Law in 1989.

What are Bryan Neft’s primary areas of legal practice?

He specializes in commercial litigation, healthcare law, and product liability, with additional experience in antitrust, banking regulatory matters, and environmental law.

What leadership positions has Bryan Neft held in legal organizations?

He served as president of the Allegheny County Bar Association and is currently President-Elect of the Allegheny County Bar Foundation. He has also served on the Pennsylvania IOLTA board.

What was the outcome of his Commonwealth Court campaign?

He ran for Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court but lost in the Democratic primary election on May 16, 2023.

What is Bryan Neft’s current professional role?

He currently works at Spilman Thomas & Battle PLLC in Pittsburgh, where he continues his practice in commercial litigation and healthcare law.

What community organizations is Bryan Neft involved with?

He serves on the Board of Directors of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh and the Board of Trustees for Beth El Congregation of South Hills, among other community commitments.

What are Bryan Neft’s key political priorities?

His platform focuses on protecting individual rights, including voting rights, environmental justice, labor rights, educational access, reproductive health choices, and marriage equality.

Where is Bryan Neft based?

He lives in Pittsburgh’s South Hills with his wife Julie Cohen, who is an author, and their family.