Ballard Spahr has selected Bart Mellits to lead the law firm's real estate department.

Mellits stepped into his new leadership position on Jan. 1. Mellits represents clients in the real estate leasing, acquisition, development and financing segments.

In his new role as chair of the department, Mellits will lead 110 lawyers in 13 offices.

He already has experience leading the real estate department as vice chair and as a member of the firm's elected and expanded boards, Ballard Spahr said.

Mellits is recognized for his work in commercial transactions and commercial development and leasing. He succeeds the department's founder Michael Sklaroff, who established the segment within the firm 25 years ago.

kpanchuk@housingwire.com