Ballard Spahr said it has named Amy M. McClain the new chair of the firm’s real estate department. 

Based in Ballard Spahr’s Baltimore office, McClain becomes the first woman to serve in the role. The real estate department is one of the firm’s five legal departments, along with business and transactions, finance, intellectual property and litigation.

“Amy is an exceptional lawyer who will continue the tradition of strong leadership that has contributed to our real estate department’s reputation as one of the finest in the nation,” firm Chair Mark Stewart said. “She will bring out the best in our lawyers and ensure excellence and innovation in our service to clients. I am delighted to have Amy in this important role.”