In 2024, Margaret T. Lucas, who had maintained a successful solo family law practice in Mercer since 2000, after beginning her career at a full-service law firm, joined forces with Russell J. Adkins, who for nearly fifteen years led the family law practice of a full-service firm in Sharon, Pennsylvania.
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Margaret T. Lucas, Esq.
Margaret T. Lucas, Esq.
Managing Partner
Managing Partner
Attorney Margaret T. Lucas brings more than four decades of respected legal experience to her family law practice. Since beginning her career in 1983, Margaret has dedicated herself to guiding individuals and families through divorce, custody, support, adoption and termination of parental rights, protection from abuse matters, and both mediation and collaborative law. Known for her steady judgment, calm presence, and staunch advocacy, she has earned a reputation as one of Mercer County’s most trusted family law advocates.
Margaret pairs technical skill with compassion. She understands that family law disputes carry emotional weight, and she works closely with each client to provide clarity, stability, and confidence throughout the legal process. Margaret has the experience and practical insight to assist clients in the crucial decision of whether to litigate or reach settlement. Whether advocating in the courtroom or facilitating a cooperative resolution, she approaches every matter with a thoughtful, solutions-focused mindset that prioritizes dignity and long-term well-being.
Margaret served for nearly 25 years as Chair of the Mercer County Bar Association Family Law Committee, helping to shape local practice and elevate the quality of family law advocacy in the county. She now continues her leadership as a Trustee of the Mercer County Bar Association. Margaret has also played a significant role on the statewide level through the Pennsylvania Bar Association—serving for many years in the Family Law Section, occupying multiple terms on the Section’s Executive Council, and contributing through the Solo & Small Firm Section and Women in the Profession. Her extensive professional service reflects a career-long commitment to strengthening the practice of family law in Pennsylvania.
Beyond her legal accomplishments, Margaret is deeply engaged in her community. She has held leadership roles with Penn State-Shenango, served on the UPMC Horizon Boards of Trustees and Foundation Board, contributed to local education initiatives through the Hermitage School District, supported United Way fundraising efforts, and volunteered as a Merit Badge Counselor for the Boy Scouts of America. Her long-standing community service mirrors the same values she brings to her work with clients: commitment, empathy, and a belief in helping others through meaningful transition.
Russell J. Adkins, Esq.
Russell J. Adkins, Esq.
Partner
Partner
Attorney Russell J. Adkins is a dedicated family law advocate and trained mediator, known for his strategic mindset, meticulous preparation and document drafting, and unwavering commitment to guiding clients through life’s most challenging situations. Above all else, Russell is a strategic thinker and problem solver, well-known for his ability to find practical and creative solutions to resolve even the most complex legal disputes.
His practice includes divorce, high-net-worth and complex asset matters, child custody, child and spousal support, and the drafting and enforcement of pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements. Russell is a trained mediator, provides services in collaborative law, and leads the firm's estate planning and administration practice, offering guidance and solutions for asset protection and legacy planning, as well as setting up a focused plan for end-of-life decisions.
Russell combines sharp legal analysis with authenticity and compassion. He recognizes that family law matters are deeply personal, and he provides clear, practical guidance to help clients regain stability and confidence. Whether negotiating a resolution or litigating in court, Russell’s clients value his calm communication style, thorough preparation, and ability to simplify even the most complex issues.
Russell serves as the Chair of the Mercer County Bar Association Family Law Committee, a role in which he works closely with the bench and bar to advance best practices in family law. He is also active in the Family Law Section and Solo & Small Firm Section of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, and he participates on the Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee, reflecting his commitment to both traditional advocacy and innovative problem-solving approaches.
A lifelong Shenango Valley resident, Russell is deeply involved in youth sports and scouting. He is also active in his church and its various ministries, and serves on a number of non-profit boards of directors and as a Sharpsville Area School District director. Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children—experiences that continually inform his understanding of the families he serves, and the challenges facing modern families and children.
Attorneys Margaret T. Lucas and Russell J. Adkins bring six decades of combined experience to every case, delivering clear communication, tailored strategies, and dedicated counsel from start to finish, no matter the size or scope of your family law matter.
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