About

James R. Silsley, Esq. represents corporate and individual clients in real estate and business matters generally, and in litigation matters in state and federal courts. Mr. Silsley has experience with property tax appeals, land use issues, landlord tenant matters, and real estate transactions. He routinely advises clients on all aspects of litigation, including pleadings, motions, briefs, and appeals.

Mr. Silsley has received recognition as a top rated real estate attorney by Super Lawyers, and was selected to their list of Rising Stars for eight straight years (2016 – 2023). Only 2.5% of attorneys in Pennsylvania are named to the Rising Star list. In addition to being a licensed attorney, Mr. Silsley is a licensed real estate sales person and member of the Realtors Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh (RAMP).

Prior to creating his firm, Mr. Silsley practiced for several years as a senior associate for two Pittsburgh-based law firms. Prior to private practice, Mr. Silsley served as the judicial law clerk for the Honorable Ronald W. Folino in the Civil Litigation Section of the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas.

James is a native of Western Pennsylvania and resides in Pittsburgh with his family.

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Experience

  • For over a decade, represented hundreds of property owners (commercial and residential) with assessment matters in Allegheny, Washington and Westmoreland Counties. Representation included tax appeals before the Board of Property Assessment Appeals and Review (BPAAR) and the Court of Common Pleas.
  • Represented entities (e.g. large trade school, local theater, fire department) in seeking property tax exemption under Pennsylvania’s “HUP” Test and Purely Public Charity standard.
  • Represented a large excavation company through business partition litigation with claims for division of partnership assets.
  • Represented and advised numerous individuals in forming and registering a business with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
  • Represented companies and individuals in commercial and residential landlord tenant matters.
  • Represented individuals and companies in appeals to the Pennsylvania Superior Court.

Professional Affiliations and Community Activities

  • Member, Allegheny County Bar Association (ACBA)
  • Realtor and Member of the Realtors Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh (RAMP)
  • Former Board of Director for the Pittsburgh Urban Leadership Experience (PULSE)
  • Former Member of Bike Pittsburgh
  • ACBA Soccer
  • Pittsburgh Sports League (PSL)

Education

  • J.D., Duquesne University School of Law, 2010
  • B.A., Washington & Jefferson College, 2005

Admissions

  • Pennsylvania
  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Pennsylvania