Catherine E. Sears

Associate

Attorney Catherine E. Sears joined Gross McGinley in July 2024 and quickly became a valued member of the Wills, Trusts, and Estates practice group, offering thoughtful guidance and support to clients planning for their future and that of their loved ones. Raised in Chester County, Cathy returned to serve the Lehigh Valley after building her career in Virginia, earning her law degree from William & Mary Law School, and practicing with The Peninsula Center for Estate and Lifelong Planning. Inspired by her family’s experiences with her grandfather’s estate, Cathy brings empathy and professionalism to every client interaction, ensuring individuals receive clear and compassionate counsel tailored to their goals.

Cathy is deeply committed to community engagement, using educational outreach to champion the importance of proactive estate planning. As an active Member and Board Director of the Estate Planning Council of the Lehigh Valley, she works to amplify positive impact for both clients and peers. Cathy also volunteers with the Wills for Heroes program, offering complimentary estate planning services to first responders and veterans.

  • William & Mary Law School , J.D. 2017
  • Franklin & Marshall College, Summa cum laude, B.A. 2014
  • Pennsylvania Bar Association
  • Bar Association of Lehigh County
  • Estate Planning Council of the Lehigh Valley
  • Estate Planning Council of the Lehigh Valley, Member (2024-Present), Board of Directors (May 2025-Present)
  • Wills for Heroes, Volunteer for Lehigh County (2024 to Present)
  • National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Member (2017 to 2024)
  • Hampton University Gerontology Board, Member (2020-2023)
  • Peninsula Task Force on Aging, Member (2020-2023)
  • 2025 – Top Lawyers in the Lehigh Valley, “One of the Best – Wills, Estates & Trusts,” The Morning Call
  • 2024 – Virginia Super Lawyers® Rising Stars