Debra A. Shulski

Located in the firm’s Exton office, Debbie represents developers, builders, telecommunications providers, alternative energy providers and individual property owners throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey in a wide range of development projects. With her counsel, numerous high-profile commercial/office projects, ranging in size from a few thousand square feet to more than 2.5 million square feet, have been completed throughout the region.

A veteran land use and zoning law attorney and litigator, Debbie expertly guides clients through the process to secure municipal zoning and land use approvals for commercial, industrial, residential, mixed-use, redevelopment and telecommunications projects, as well as in related drafting, easement and covenant matters. She also handles all aspects surrounding third-party permitting, including coordination with the county conservation districts, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the Army Corps of Engineers and State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs). In addition, Debbie works closely with clients throughout the post-approval and public improvement dedication processes.

Debbie’s clients include some of the nation’s largest telecommunications companies, major regional developers and builders who appreciate her hands-on attention and effective communication skills. Debbie and her Riley Riper colleagues are frequently praised for their proactive approach and ability to resolve issues quickly, efficiently and cost-effectively. She has been successful in securing both zoning and land development approvals for complex projects in a very aggressive time period.

Before joining Riley Riper, Debbie practiced in the areas of municipal law, construction law and employment litigation. Active in politics, she was elected to and served on the Horsham Township Council and prior to that served on its planning commission for 10 years. This experience gave her a unique perspective that she draws upon today when interacting and negotiating with municipalities on behalf of her clients.

Debbie graduated cum laude from Widener University School of Law with a Juris Doctor and completed her undergraduate studies at East Stroudsburg University. Active in professional and civic organizations, she is a member of the Chester County Commercial-Industrial-Investment Council, and the Pennsylvania, Chester County and Montgomery County Bar Associations.

Organizational Affiliations

• Pennsylvania Bar Association

• Chester County Bar Association

• Chester County Commercial – Industrial-Investment Council

• Montgomery County Bar Association

Offices Held

• Councilwoman – Horsham Township (2002 to 2005)

• Planning Commission – Horsham Township (1993 to 2001)

• Ward Leader – Horsham Township (1997 to 2004)

• Committeewoman – Horsham Township (1995 to 1997)