Andrew G. Sykes
Managing Attorney
The founder of Sykes Elder Law, Andrew Sykes is recognized as a leading elder law authority in Western Pennsylvania. Mr. Sykes is the past chair of the Elder Law Committee of the Allegheny County Bar Association. He lectures frequently on elder law topics to legal, professional, and community groups. His comments on elder law topics have been quoted on WTAE-TV and in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Town and Country Magazine, Pittsburgh Senior News, and other publications. Mr. Sykes was recognized by Pittsburgh magazine as a 2010 FIVE STAR Wealth Manager in the area of Estate Planning. He was admitted to practice in Pennsylvania in 1989, following graduation (with honors) from Ohio State University’s College of Law.
As Managing Attorney, Mr. Sykes hires and trains the lawyers and paralegals of Sykes Elder Law. He constructs, improves, and maintains the systems used to provide the level of service clients expect.
Robert K. Schweitzer
Attorney
The son of a small-town dentist, Mr. Schweitzer brings his personal, hands-on approach to the practice of elder law. Rob grew up in Ford City and attended Westminster College and the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. He is a member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and its Elder Law Section, the Allegheny County Bar Association (and serves on its Elder Law Committee), and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.
In 2010, Mr. Schweitzer was one of only four lawyers recognized as Pennsylvania Rising Stars in the area of elder law by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers. In addition to his elder law experience, he has previously litigated commercial, construction, securities and professional liability matters. He holds bar admissions with the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania and the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. His community activities include serving on the Westminster College Alumni Advisory Board for the Pennsylvania Lambda Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon and the College’s Pre-Law Advisory Board. Rob and his wife reside in Cranberry, PA.
Ellen M. Warwick
Paralegal
Ellen Warwick has handled probate estates ranging in size from several thousand to tens of millions of dollars. She offers a mix of abilities rare among paralegals: her knowledge of estate administration and estate planning is matched by her knowledge of Pennsylvania’s Medicaid laws. Ms. Warwick’s attention to detail and commitment to client satisfaction provide priceless support to the firm’s legal staff. She received her bachelor’s degree from Duquesne University in French and Spanish in 1989, an additional bachelor’s degree in legal studies from the University of Pittsburgh in 1991, and a paralegal certificate from Robert Morris University in 1992.
Debbie R. Brash
Director of Development
Debbie hails originally from Virginia, but has lived throughout the world as part of a military family. Prior to joining Sykes Elder Law, Debbie worked as the office manager of a military defense litigation law firm. A personal experience helping an elderly family member move into downsized living arrangements sparked her interest in elder law. Debbie uses her attention to detail and creativity in a variety of special projects that constantly improve the firm’s business systems, efficiency, and client service. Ms. Brash holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts and Design from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Donna K. Dean
Paralegal/Legal Secretary
For more than 40 years, Donna Dean has served the needs of Pittsburgh-area clients. She began as a legal secretary and later learned to assist with estate administration and estate planning matters. Ms. Dean now handles those matters, along with Medicaid asset protection cases, in her friendly, relaxed style that puts clients at ease.
Dusty Sluka
Client Services Coordinator
That friendly voice you hear when you call our office these days belongs to Dusty Sluka. Her background in customer service, and her strong people skills, make her a valuable addition as the firm’s Client Services Coordinator. Dusty enjoys going out into the community to represent the firm at senior fairs and consumer events. When you call our office, count on Dusty to give your concerns her full, caring attention.