Gibbons Environmental Law Department Congratulates Former Director Shawn LaTourette on Being Named NJDEP Acting Commissioner

The Gibbons Environmental Law Department proudly congratulates former Director Shawn LaTourette on his being named Acting Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) by Governor Murphy.

Shawn joined the Gibbons Environmental Law Department as an associate in 2015 where he was provided with a supportive platform on which to develop and expand his legal and environmental skills. Recognizing his significant talent, Gibbons elevated him to Director in 2018. Shortly thereafter, he was tapped to serve as Chief Counsel for the NJDEP. During his time at Gibbons, he was an integral part of the Environmental Law Department where he worked on complex environmental litigation matters under the New Jersey Spill Compensation and Control Act and the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, as well as other significant litigation matters involving contract and common law claims between private parties. He also represented clients in cutting-edge permitting and regulatory compliance matters, and on brownfields redevelopment projects.

“We are extremely proud of Shawn, and we are glad that our department was able to enhance his development as an environmental attorney such that he has been able to succeed so profoundly in public service,” said Camille V. Otero, Director and Chair of the Gibbons Environmental Law Department. “Shawn was a vital part of our Department’s environmental practice during his time here, and that experience has served him well thus far at NJDEP, and is sure to continue to aid him as Acting Commissioner,” added Susanne Peticolas, Director in the Gibbons Environmental Law Department. William S. Hatfield, also a Director in the Environmental Law Department, said that he “joins the chorus of congratulations for Shawn, whose skills and stewardship as an environmental law professional blossomed at Gibbons, which now benefits the citizens, industry, and stakeholders of the State of New Jersey.” We are all confident that Shawn will provide strong leadership and a fair and balanced hand in guiding the NJDEP forward.