Ryan J. Wilk

How Ryan Helps Clients

An experienced litigator and former Assistant U.S. Attorney, Ryan has a proven track record of vigorously representing clients in employment discrimination matters in state and federal court and before administrative agencies; wage and hour class and collective actions; high stakes trade secret and restrictive covenant litigation; and disability discrimination cases under Title III of the ADA.  In addition to his extensive litigation practice, he also counsels clients on compliance with local, state, and federal employment laws, providing proactive guidance to reduce the risk, time, and expense of litigation.  

Between his tenures at Buchanan, Ryan served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the United States Attorneys’ Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania from 2021 to 2024. He defended the United States and its agencies in a wide array of civil litigation – including employment and immigration-related matters, civil rights disputes, medical malpractice claims under the Federal Torts Claims Act, and habeas corpus petitions. Ryan also led complex investigations and litigation under the False Claims Act and Controlled Substances Act, which resulted in significant recoveries on behalf of the United States.

Prior to joining the United States Attorneys’ office, Ryan was an associate in Buchanan’s Labor & Employment section. Before Buchanan, he served as a law clerk to the Honorable Terrence F. McVerry of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania from 2013 to 2017.

He currently serves as an adjunct professor at University of Pittsburgh School of Law, where he teaches a course in federal civil litigation.

What Clients Can Expect

Whether in litigation or acting as a counselor and advisor, Ryan is committed to understanding the needs of his clients to arrive at practical, reasonable solutions to complex legal problems.

Outside the Office

While not in the office, Ryan enjoys running, playing golf, cooking and following Pittsburgh sports. He currently resides in Edgewood with his family.

Proof Points

• Won motion to dismiss and summary judgment for a large energy company in a case alleging SOX whistleblower retaliation and age and national origin discrimination claims.
• Obtained dismissal of multiple counts in complaint by former employee against large energy company alleging breach of contract and related theories of liability.
• Won a motion to dismiss for a large roofing company in workers’ compensation retaliation case.
• Defended healthcare and energy companies in FLSA collective actions involving misclassification of independent contractors.
• Obtained favorable settlement for wealth management firm after multiple-day TRO / preliminary injunction hearing, in case alleging violation of non-compete and confidentiality obligations.