Chief Counsel Office

The Chief Counsel Office is an integral part of the local government infrastructure in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This office provides legal guidance and representation to various governmental departments and agencies within the jurisdiction. The Chief Counsel Office is staffed by highly experienced legal professionals who specialize in different areas of law, ensuring comprehensive legal support for the administration's operations and initiatives.

Leadership:

1. Keith A. Herbster:

- Appointed as Chief Counsel to the Governor’s Office of Administration in January 2023.

- Extensive experience in labor and employment matters.

- Previous roles include Acting Chief Counsel, Deputy Chief Counsel, and Assistant Counsel with the Governor’s Office of Administration.

- Educational Background: Juris Doctor from Widener University School of Law, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History from Juniata College.

2. Ms. Bennett:

- Holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Harpur College of the State University of New York.

- Juris Doctor degree from Temple University Beasley School of Law.

- Recognized for outstanding trial advocacy and contributions to the Temple Environmental & Technology Law Journal.

3. John Howard:

- Appointed Chief Counsel to the Department of Agriculture in February 2019.

- Previous experience includes Staff Attorney for the Pennsylvania Milk Marketing Board.

- Educational Background: Bachelor of Science degree from Pennsylvania State University and Juris Doctor from Penn State Dickinson School of Law.

- Active in local government and agricultural organizations.

4. Stefanie Hamilton:

- Appointed Chief Counsel for the Department of Banking and Securities in August 2020.

- Commonwealth career started in 1998.

- Educational Background: B.S. in Industrial Management and Economics from Carnegie Mellon University, Juris Doctor from The Dickinson School of Law.

5. Brian D. Zweiacher:

- Appointed Chief Counsel to the Governor’s Office of the Budget in June 2012.

- Overseeing Pennsylvania’s financial operations and transactions.

- Educational Background: B.A. from Montclair State University, Juris Doctor from Widener University School of Law.

6. Debra Sandifer:

- Appointed Chief Counsel to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency in February 2016.

- Prior experience in administrative tribunals and private practice in Philadelphia.

- Roles included General Counsel to the Philadelphia Housing Authority.

Services:

The Chief Counsel Office provides a range of legal services, including but not limited to:

- Legal advice and representation in court.

- Drafting and reviewing contracts and legal documents.

- Advising on labor and employment matters.

- Overseeing financial operations and regulatory compliance.

- Conducting audits and performance reviews.

- Supporting the development and implementation of policies and legislation.

Commitment:

The Chief Counsel Office is committed to upholding the highest standards of legal practice and public service. The team of dedicated professionals works diligently to ensure that the local government operates within the legal framework and serves the best interests of the community.

For more information or legal assistance, visit the Chief Counsel Office at 301 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222, United States.