Gross McGinley, LLP is pleased to announce that Senior Counsel Eric A. Harakal has been selected as an honoree in Lehigh Valley Business’ Forty Under 40 awards program, which recognizes leaders of the Lehigh Valley who are under the age of 40 and not only achieving success in their careers, but also giving back in meaningful ways to the community.Eric focuses his practice on criminal defense, family law, and civil litigation, representing individuals and families across the Lehigh Valley who are navigating some of the most difficult and uncertain moments of their lives. He is known for treating each client as an individual with a story and a future, tailoring his approach to protect not just their legal interests, but also their dignity and opportunity to move forward.Eric’s recognition by Lehigh Valley Business reflects a track record of excellence already acknowledged throughout the community. His recent honors include Pennsylvania Rising Star – Criminal Law (2026), Pennsylvania Top 100 Trial Lawyers (2025), Morning Call Top Lawyers of the Lehigh Valley – Criminal (2025), and Emmaus Main Street Partners Board Member of the Year (2026).Eric’s service extends into the justice system through his work as court appointed counsel in juvenile cases, where he provides high quality representation to young people who have made serious mistakes and need someone to believe in them, advocate for them, and work toward outcomes that allow them to move forward. He has seen first hand the difference that access to rehabilitative resources and varied support services can make, and he is a vocal proponent of continued improvement in how the Commonwealth’s justice system addresses the root causes of criminal behavior, particularly for juveniles.“The key to my success is showing up every day with the mindset that I have an opportunity to make a major impact on someone’s life,” Eric shared. “I am often one of the only people in my client’s corner, and that responsibility drives me to work tirelessly, to listen carefully, and not to give up on what I believe is right.”Gross McGinley congratulates Eric on this Forty Under 40 honor and is proud to have his thoughtful advocacy and community minded perspective shaping the firm’s work across Eastern Pennsylvania.For more information about Eric A. Harakal’s practice, visit his attorney profile HERE.