Eric John Purchase

Car accident Attorney at Erie, PA

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Excellent lawyer

After being involved in an auto accident where I was rear-ended, the insurance company wanted me to sign off with little compensation for personal injuries. Not knowing what to do I contacted Purchase & George. Eric and his staff were friendly and answered all my questions and concerns. He explained the process in language that I could understand. He is well qualified in dealing with the insurance company. I always knew they were diligently working for me with continuously updates letting me know how the case was progressing. Eric is very knowledgeable and qualified with high ethical standards. His experience and his staff were priceless. I would highly recommend Eric and his staff for anyone needing personal legal support.

Excellent Lawyer!

About Eric

Learn Eric’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Car accident

40%

All cases in which someone has been killed or seriously injured as a result of another's negligence, including truck accidents, pedestrian accidents, motorcycle accidents, and others.

31 years, 1,000 cases
Litigation

20%

Typically these cases involve business disputes, including contract disputes and problems among partners/shareholders.

31 years, 100 cases
Medical malpractice

20%

All cases in which someone has been killed or seriously injured as a result of the negligence of a health care professional, including instances of failure to diagnose cancer, birth injuries and surgical errors.
... Read more
31 years
Personal injury

20%

Cases outside of the automobile context in which people have been seriously injured as a result of dog bites or someone's negligence, including dangerous conditions on property, drownings, failure to render aid, and other acts of carelessness.
... Read more
31 years, 500 cases

Attorney Eric J. Purchase represents individuals and families suffering from injury or the death of a loved one. He was born and raised in Erie County, Pennsylvania. He is a 1988 graduate of Gannon University. In 1991, he received his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Pittsburgh, graduating with honors. While at the University of Pittsburgh, Mr. Purchase served as editor of the University of Pittsburgh Law Review. In recognition of his class standing upon graduation, Mr. Purchase was inducted into the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Order of the Coif.

Before opening his Pennsylvania personal injury practice, Mr. Purchase was a trial lawyer with one of Erie’s largest law firms and served as both an equity partner and a practice group chairman. At that time, his practice consisted primarily of representing the region’s largest insurance companies and employers in trials and arbitrations. His cases included personal injury and wrongful death claims, contract disputes, insurance coverage disputes, insurance bad faith claims, medical malpractice claims, and shareholder rights disputes. Mr. Purchase has represented clients all over Pennsylvania, the United States, and overseas, including cases and clients in Singapore, Denmark, the Netherlands, Brazil, and Canada.

In 2006, Mr. Purchase founded his own law practice and ever since has devoted himself to representing individuals and families, primarily in cases against the larger insurance companies and corporations in the region. Today, Mr. Purchase’s legal practice successfully represents clients in auto accident, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and personal injury cases. (Mr. Purchase also represents local businesses and business people in commercial litigation cases, including contract litigation, shareholder/partner disputes, and other business disputes.)

Mr. Purchase has taught and lectured to other lawyers and insurance adjustors on many subjects, including trial tactics, Pennsylvania auto insurance, car accident law, and other injury law subjects. His lectures include Supreme Court approved Continuing Legal Education seminars, as well as private seminars for claims professionals. He serves at the highest levels of Pennsylvania trial lawyer associations, including the Erie County Bar Association, the Western Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers, and the Pennsylvania Association of Justice.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 31 years

State PA

Status Active

Acquired 1991

Updated 02/26/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Eric

Eric John Purchase

(814) 833-7100 Office

Suite 203

2525 W 26th Street

Erie, PA, 16506-3254

yourerieaccidentlawyers.com/

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

12 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Don | June 10, 2017

Excellent lawyer

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Posted by Kathleen | April 22, 2016

Excellent Lawyer!

I was very fortunate to have Eric Purchase recommended to me. When he took my case, he made sure I was informed every step of the way. Eric and Mark Harrington went above and beyond to return my calls in a prompt manner, treat me with the utmost respect, and worked hard to get the best results for my case. If you need a lawyer, hire the best....Eric Purchase. I did and results prove it!

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Posted by Rosemary & John | July 14, 2015

Excellent Settlement

Needed a lawyer and didn't know how to go about doing it. Got in touch with Mark Harrington at Eric Purchase. Can say nothing but good things of how my wife and I were treated. We were kept in touch about what was happening until the settlement. Thanks so much Mark. Would definitely recommend Eric Purchase to anyone I knew looking for a lawyer.

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Posted by Henry | March 4, 2014

A great guide through a troubled time

Eric Purchase was the perfect lawyer for our needs. He has a genuine interest in helping you receive a fair and favorable outcome to your case. He is conservative and not pushy, which my wife and I really appreciated, but could be stern when needed dealing with insurance companies. We trusted Eric completely to do what was right, not just for our benefit, but as a moral person and he never let us down. His communications with us were always very good. He always explained what was going on with the case in layman's terms so we could understand. Also his staff is top notch too, very professional and friendly. The office is always easy to get in touch with and they will return your calls or emails promptly. All in all a wonderful experience.

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Posted by Steven | April 19, 2013

Excellent settlement

They are very professional and friendly. They remain on task. They kept to time frames. Every time they told me something would happen, it did. They got me an excellent settlement. It turned out a million times better than I thought it could.

Posted by Jim | March 8, 2010

Determined to succeed

Eric has represented me on a personal matter as well as a business related matter. Each time, I was given first class attention to each and every question I had. Eric takes a hands on approach to his clients and will fight to insure your legal rights are protected. Additionally, his ability to understand the perspectives of all parties involved, gives him an opportunity to understand how to position your case to best suit the situation. His legal knowledge is second to none. I would strongly recommend Eric for any legal issues you may encounter.

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Posted by Tommy | March 2, 2010

Review of Eric Purchase

Eric provided me with very practical advise and a contract that secured a significant amount of sales for my business. He was very knowledgable on the subject matter and his research and effort was worth every dollar.

Posted by Michelle P | March 2, 2010

Eric Purchase

Eric is not only a very qualified attorney, he is also very understanding. He makes you feel like you are his only client. Having Eric as my attorney made me just know that my case was going to get resloved in the best manner that it could have.

Posted by Mike | February 22, 2010

Advertising industry expertise

Eric is a true professional. He consistently exhibits the highest ethical standards and has a brilliant grasp of the law and how it applies. Eric was able to quickly understand our case and tactically maneuver through complicated issues with ease - always thinking two steps ahead. I would highly recommend Eric without hesitation.

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Posted by Barry | February 22, 2010

Car accident settlement

I was involved in a car accident where the other driver rear-ended my vehicle. His insurance company did not want to provide adequate compensation for my vehicle and personal injuries. Attorney Purchase came highly recommended to me by people I personally respect and trust. I have had my share of poor lawyers, accountants, and other professionals, so I KNOW what GREAT is, and I now take time to seek the best out. From the start, I realized what an intelligent and caring person Attorney Purchase was. I felt he was really on my side. I wasn't just another case number to crank through the system. He wasn't flamboyant nor condescending. He was there to help me. He took the time to gather all the information and was extremely well organized and prepared. He remembered what I told him. He contacted me frequently, told me what to expect next, and kept me calm throughout the process. He didn't let the insurance companies intimidate me. In the past, I had an experience where my lawyer showed up to represent me and appeared like he hadn't even reviewed my information. I had prepared more information than he did! Not Mr. Purchase. He overcame the insurance company lawyers with his knowledge and facts. His confidence and integrity made me feel relaxed and proud to be associated with him. In the end, he won a much larger settlement for me, which I feel was deserved. I'm not the greedy type, but just wanted to make sure my substantial medical bills would be covered into the future. You can use Mr. Purchase with confidence. He will NOT let you down. He won't take the path of least resistance. He WILL represent you and get the results you deserve. I say this because I have never met a lawyer quite like him.

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Posted by Mike | February 22, 2010

Trusted, and provides well thought-out direction

Eric is very conscientious and knowledgeable. He continually provides steady and logical direction. Appreciate his frequent and timely updates (which is rare from many others). Utmost confidence in his judgment and recommendations.

Posted by Richard | February 22, 2010

Trusted and proven counsel

Attorney Purchase has provided legal counsel to my company regarding several matters over the past few months. His efforts consistently confirm our trust and confidence in his abilites and realistic approach. My overall satisfaction is such that I highly recommend Mr. Purchase to those seeking excellence in legal counsel.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Partner
Purchase & George, P.C.
2010 - Present

Judge of Elections
Erie County, 5th Ward, 20th District
2010 - 2013

Owner
Eric J. Purchase, Attorney at Law
2006 - 2010

Partner and Practice Group Chairman
MacDonald Illig Jones & Britton, LLP
1991 - 2006

View all work experience

Education

University of Pittsburgh School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1991

Gannon University
BA
1988

General McLane High School
1984

Legal Cases

Engel v. State Farm, et al.
Verdict for Plaintiff - $375,000

Marshall
Favorable Settlement

Askins v. Simmons
Verdict for Plaintiff

Associations

Erie County Bar Association
Board of Trustees
2013 - Present

Pennsylvania Bar Foundation
Life Fellow
2012 - Present

Western Pennsylvania Trial Lawyers Association
Board of Governors
2012 - Present

Erie County Bar Association
Chair, Civil Litigation Section
2011 - Present

Pennsylvania Bar Association, Political Action Committee
Zone 7 Representative
2011 - Present

Pennsylvania Bar Association
House of Delegates
2010 - Present

Pennsylvania Association For Justice
Board of Governors
2009 - Present

Erie County Bar Assocation, Civil Litigation Section
Chairman
2011 - 2013

Erie County Bar Association group
Chair of the Civil Litigation Section
2007 - 2008

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Top Trial Lawyers in America
Million Dollar Advocates Forum
2014

Super Lawyer
Thomson Reuters
2014

Top 100 Lawyers
American Society of Legal Advocates
2013

Super Lawyer
Thomson Reuters
2013

Order of the Coif
University of Pittsburgh
1991

View all awards

Publications

Consumer Guide Book
Car Accident Cases in Pennsylvania
2011

Business Magazine
The Problem of the Minority Discount
2002

Speaking Engagements

Public Health Policy
Guest Lecturer: Medical Malpractice Litigation and Quality of Care
2013

Business Law Class
Guest Lecturer: Lawyers, Litigation and Settlement
2013

Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word
Apologies in the Medical Malpractice Context
2012

Public Health Law and Policy
Guest Lecturer, Medical Malpractice and the Adversarial System
2012

Civil Lit 101
Civil Litigation for First Year Lawyers
2012

Joint and Several Liability in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Tort Reform
2011

Inside Secrets of ERISA: A Third Party Administrator Pulls Back the Curtain
ERISA
2011

ECBA Orientation for Newly Admitted Attorneys
Civil Litigation 101
2011

Auto Law Update
First Party Benefits Update
2009

Trial Tactics: Making the Most of What 'Ya Got
Effective Use of Depositions at Trial
2008

UM/UIM In the Post-Koken World
Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Claims Practice
2007

Litigation Seminar
Bad Faith Insurance Claims and Trial Tactics
N/A

Litigation Seminar
First Party Benefits Update
N/A

Litigation Seminar
Emotional Distress Damages
N/A

Litigation Seminar
Premises Liability, Slip and Fall Update
N/A

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (15)

Given (17)

Endorse Eric

Nathaniel Smith

Medical malpractice Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Eric. He has always been zealous in representing his clients. Very well respected for his experience and devotion to his practice."

Rebeka Seelinger

Medical malpractice Attorney | Aug 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Eric is very well respected in the Erie Community. He is both a strong advocate and a compassionate lawyer. Eric is the kind of attorney you can trust. I would recommend family and friends to him without hesitation."

Eric Hackwelder

Unknown Attorney | Nov 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Purchase is one of the most well respected attorneys in the region. He is a skilled and experienced trial lawyer. One of the smartest attorneys I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. I am happy to endorse this lawyer."

Michael Waddington

Personal injury Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Eric. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

John Worman

Unknown Attorney | Jun 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kenneth LaBore

Medical malpractice Attorney | Dec 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Purchase is a very knowledgeable medical malpractice attorney"

Michael Saile

Personal injury Attorney | Jan 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Eric is a well known personal injury lawyer throughout Pennsylvania and across the country. He is an innovator who combines skill, knowledge, and business savvy to produce excellent results for his clients."

Catherine Doyle

Litigation Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work."

Kathleen Scibetta

Car accident Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Eric brings tremendous energy and creativity to every case. He is a tireless advocate for justice and genuinely cares for his clients. I endorse him and his work without any reservation."

Bethany Blood

Litigation Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. I know Eric to be very knowledgeable regarding many areas of civil litigation. I have known Eric for several years, both as a professional and as a friend, and I would not hesitate to refer a case to him."

Raquel Taylor

Car accident Attorney | Mar 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Purchase is very knowledgeable in all areas of civil litigation. No detail of a case goes unnoticed. Clients that select Attorney Purchase will be very well taken care of and happy with his representation."

Lee Acquista

Personal injury Attorney | Mar 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have referred several cases to Attorney Purchase and also worked together with him on cases. His professionalism and legal knowledge are at the top of his profession. I use him as a resource in all my general litigation matters. I would highly recommend Attorney Purchase's services and representation."

Walter Mcgough

Personal injury Attorney | Mar 05
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Eric is one of the brightest and most creative lawyers I have encountered. His prior experience with a large Erie firm gives him a perspective that most lawyers practicing in his field don't have. He is well liked and well respected by both the bench and bar. He is also an exceptionally able trial lawyer."

Gregory Zimmerman

Car accident Attorney | Feb 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer's work. Eric is an excellent trial lawyer and a strong advocate for his clients."

J. George

Car accident Attorney | Feb 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work product, his ethics and his sense of committment to his clients. He maintains clear and open communication with clients, he employs exceptional support staff and he routinely gets superior results for his clients."

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Eric Hackwelder

Criminal defense