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History of the Firm

The law practice of Louis Shaffer spanned over 50 years and served as the foundation for the formation of Chariton & Schwager. Attorney Shaffer was known for his impressive and distinctive legal career and for being an outstanding servant to his community. Attorney Shaffer's example provided the firm with a solid base of trust, respect and dedication. A recognized leader among his peers, Attorney Shaffer served as President of the Wilkes-Barre Law and Library Association, the Luzerne County Bar Association. Always taking his responsibilities seriously, Attorney Shaffer served his clients and his profession until his death in 1984.

Infallibly courteous, Lou Shaffer was a conciliator, a lawyer who recognized the fact that a lawyer's duty was not to tear people apart, but to bring them together. That sense of character, which Louis Shaffer carefully cultivated, is still a strong and integral part of the firm.



In 1999, after nearly two decades in practice with Attorney Shaffer, his son-in-law, Jerry B.Chariton (center), joined with David E. Schwager (right), an accomplished and respected attorney, to form the firm of Chariton & Schwager. Recently, Attorney Jeffrey J. Malak (left) has become partner, bringing his talent and expertise to the firm.

The firm is housed in a previously neglected, deteriorating historical building on South Main Street in downtown\ Wilkes-Barre, PA. As part of a continuing commitment to the community, in conjunction with a distinguished architect, this hidden jewel underwent an exhaustive restoration and renovation. The effort was recognized by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry in 1992 when the restoration project was presented the prestigious "Pride of Place" Award. The Wyoming Historical and Geological Society also recognized the rehabilitation of this structure in 1992 with an historic preservation award for adaptive reuse. Today the structure stands as a beacon of creativity and foresight in the downtown area.

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138 South Main Street, Post Office Box 910 | Wilkes-Barre, PA 18703-0910
Telephone: 570.824.3511 | Fax: 570.824.3580 | palaw@charitonschwager.com
Copyright 1999-2012 Chariton, Schwager & Malak