A longtime casino chief attorney was named as the permanent replacement as Atlantic County counsel.
N. Lynne Hughes, who lives in Ocean City, already has served as acting counsel for the county since the retirement of James Ferguson.
County Executive Dennis Levinson lauded Hughes' "extensive legal background" that includes 22 years with Caesars Entertainment as chief counsel and vice president. She also was an associate for two local law firms and spent four years in the U.S. Department of Commerce's Patent and Trademark Office.
“In the short time she has been with county government, she has contributed greatly," Levinson said. "She is a highly capable and ethical attorney whom I am confident will fight to protect the best interests of Atlantic County and its residents.”
The daughter of the late U.S. Ambassador and former Congressman William J. Hughes said she si proud to continue her family legacy of public service.
“Like her father, Lynne is a very affable yet humble person," Levinson said. "She is proud of her local roots and fights hard for those she represents. We are extraordinarily lucky to have her on our team.”
Hughes is the chief legal officer of county government and is responsible for the administration of its legal affairs.
She is a graduate of Widener University Law School, after earning a bachelor of arts in Political Science and Communications from George Washington University and a masters of Public Administration from American University.
Hughes is a member of the Atlantic County Bar Association and the the state bar associations in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Atlantic County Prosecutor William Reynolds said his office looks forward to working closely with Hughes to uphold the law and promote justice in their shared efforts to serve the people of Atlantic County.
“Your experience and vision will undoubtedly be a valuable asset as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead,” he said.
“I am grateful to County Executive Levinson for providing me with this opportunity and his faith in my abilities to do the best job for Atlantic County,” Hughes said.