14 Apr 2026
Harter Secrest & Emery Adds Two Associates to Buffalo Corporate Practice
"Harter Secrest & Emery adds Nolan M. Hale and Rob Lee as associates in its Buffalo Corporate practice; Hale will focus on M&A and not-for-profit counsel; Lee will focus on transactional work, entity structuring and regulatory compliance."
Nolan M. Hale focuses his practice on advising closely held businesses and not-for-profit organizations, providing practical, cost-efficient legal guidance tailored to each client's objectives. His experience spans a range of industries with a concentration on buy- and sell-side mergers and acquisitions, where he works with business owners and management teams to structure transactions, manage risk, and advance deals efficiently. In addition to his transactional work, Hale advises not-for-profit organizations on corporate and transactional matters, including governance, structuring, and strategic initiatives, and regularly collaborates with boards and executive leadership to deliver mission-aligned guidance. He joins Harter Secrest & Emery as an associate. Hale earned a J.D. from Syracuse University College of Law and a B.S., cum laude, from the University at Buffalo.
Rob Lee brings experience in corporate and business law with a concentration on transactional matters and regulatory compliance. His practice focuses on entity formation and structuring and counseling on all aspects of transactions, including drafting and negotiating complex agreements and conducting due diligence and compliance analysis. Prior to joining Harter Secrest & Emery, Lee practiced in the Investment Funds group at Sidley Austin in New York, where he supported fund launches, negotiated agreements with large institutional investors, and conducted due diligence and compliance analysis for closed-end investment vehicles. He also served as a summer associate at Sidley Austin, K&L Gates, and Blackstone. Before entering private practice, Lee served as an officer in the United States Army in various infantry assignments, including with the 82nd Airborne Division and the 4th Infantry Division, and is a veteran of the Afghanistan War. He joins the firm as an associate and earned a J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law and a B.A., summa cum laude, from George Mason University.