Governor Corbett Names James D. Schultz as General Counsel

HARRISBURG, Pa., July 23, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today named James D. Schultz, 40, of Philadelphia, as General Counsel of the Commonwealth.

"Jim has a tremendous record of service and success in my administration, in his community and in the legal world," Corbett said. "His experience and guidance are valuable assets to our team, and his talents will suit him well as General Counsel."

Schultz previously served as First Executive Deputy General Counsel, responsible for overseeing the operation and management of the Office of General Counsel's executive office and the chief counsel offices of commonwealth agencies. Schultz was also responsible for providing legal counsel to the governor's executive staff and Cabinet members.

"It has been an honor to serve the Corbett administration as First Executive Deputy General Counsel," Schultz said. "I look forward facing new challenges and continuing to serve the governor in his effort to ensure a bright and prosperous future for all Pennsylvanians."

Schultz has spent the majority of his career handling complex litigation throughout the United States in both state and federal courts, most recently with the Cozen O'Connor law firm in Philadelphia.

In addition to his experience in private practice, Schultz served nearly three years as an aide in the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.  While there, he worked closely with the U.S. Attorney on the development and implementation of Department of Justice programs and policy initiatives throughout the region.

Schultz has also served the community throughout his career, taking on leadership roles for various nonprofit and community organizations in the past, including:

• The Stewards Alliance for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Chairman
• The Christian Street YMCA, Board Member
• The YMCA of Philadelphia and Vicinity, Facilities Committee Member
• The Athletic Advantage Fund, Board Member
• American Red Cross, Delaware County Chapter, Clara Barton Ball Committee Member

Schultz earned his bachelor's degree from Temple University and his J.D. from the Widener University School of Law.

Schultz resides in Philadelphia with his wife of nine years, Michelle Albright Schultz, and their two daughters.

Schultz succeeds Stephen S. Aichele, who recently became the Governor's Chief of Staff.

For more information, visit www.pa.gov.

Media contact: Kevin Harley, 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor