Q&A: Havertown’s Mary V.Z. Wachterhauser

Mary Wachterhauser has been practicing family law in the area since 1994—a track record that made her a perfect fit for the Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County. She joined its board in 2007 and became its president in 2012. In providing legal help, counseling and housing to victims, DAPDC offers relief and hope to those in desperate situations. 

Best part about working with DAPDC: The people. The agency is tremendously strong and vibrant, and that’s really a result of an extraordinary executive director, Rita Buckley Connolly, and the rest of the staff and board.  

From Left: Ridley Creek State Park, Edgewood Café & BYOB

What she does for fun: I socialize with friends, colleagues and family. I have two children and two grandsons. We often see them in the Poconos, where we like to swim and visit parks. Locally, our favorite is Ridley Creek State Park.   

Favorite eatery: Edgewood Café & BYOB in Havertown. I recently had the snapper special with lobster risotto—it was delicious. 

The area’s best-kept secret: Bryn Mawr Film Institute, the proximity to three major cities on the East Coast, and the trees. I don’t know if they’re best-kept secrets, but they’re some of my favorite parts of the Main Line. 

Best chance of getting stuck in traffic: Plymouth Meeting to Lansdale on a Friday afternoon. They’re working on widening that, so hopefully it will get better.  

If she had 30 minutes to herself, she would: Call an old friend. I try to make time for myself, but it depends on the week and what’s going on in my practice.  

From Left: Planet Fitness, Lehigh River Gorge Trail

Favorite place to work out: I’ve been a fan of Zumba for a few years. I go to Planet Fitness in Broomall. I also like to bike, hike and take walks. My husband and I just rode 30 miles on the Lehigh River Gorge Trail. It was beautiful.  

Most curious thing about living here: I’ve been here since 1982, and I still think the Philadelphia accent is funny.