Scarinci Hollenbeck Brings Hope to Government & Education Law Practice

Scarinci Hollenbeck Brings Hope to Government & Education Law Practice

Lyndhurst, NJ, July 31, 2018 – Scarinci Hollenbeck is proud to announce that Hope R. Blackburn, a well-regarded Education Law and Government Procurement attorney with decades of experience practicing law in the education and government industry, has joined the firm as Counsel. Ms. Blackburn will be located in Scarinci Hollenbeck’s Lyndhurst, NJ Law Office where she will re-join former colleagues from Schwartz Simon Edelstein & Celso, Carolyn R. Chaudry and Nathanya G. Simon following several years as General Counsel for the Jersey City Public Schools. The addition of Ms. Blackburn continues to add significant depth to the firm’s growing Education Law practice group.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of Scarinci Hollenbeck. Not only will I be reunited with familiar faces, but I will be joining a respected law firm where I can continue practicing law in an area that I am passionate about. I’m grateful for the opportunity and I look forward to this new chapter,” stated Ms. Blackburn.

Prominent Education Law Attorney

Ms. Blackburn has served as General Counsel to both the Jersey City and Newark public school systems and was the former Director of the Division of Purchase and Property for the State of New Jersey.  As General Counsel, she provided legal counsel to the Boards of Education and the Superintendents and was a member of the Executive Leadership Teams in the districts. Ms. Blackburn provided legal advice to the business units and Senior Leaders to revise, develop and recommend District policies and practices, including, but not limited to TEACHNJ, legal compliance, Civil Service, ethics and risk management. Additionally, Ms. Blackburn advised the Superintendents and Boards on state and federal budget issues, governance, labor and employment, public procurement, contracts, requests for proposals, cooperative agreements, and much more.

At Scarinci Hollenbeck, Ms. Blackburn will continue to provide legal representation for various educational institutions, school boards and business entities in a myriad of matters including and beyond Education Law. She has experience advising clients on Labor & Employment matters as well as Litigation, Public Law, Contract Drafting & Negotiation, ADA accommodations, Acquisitions and much more. Her diverse practice experience and reputation make Ms. Blackburn a welcome addition to the firm.

“It is rare that you come across a legal professional as well-regarded and experienced as Ms. Blackburn. She is an individual whom I both respect and admire. I look forward to the opportunity of working alongside a colleague who I feel will be an invaluable asset to the firm’s Education Law practice,” stated John Geppert, chair of the firm’s Education Law practice group.