NJSBA Bar Report logo. Credit: New Jersey State Bar Association;

New Criminal Law Section Chair hopes to reach younger, seasoned attorneys alike 

The New Jersey State Bar Association offers 80 sections, committees and divisions for members to stay apprised of the latest trends in their specialty, shape legislation and become better attorneys for their practice and clients. The Criminal Law Section is one of the most vibrant in the Association. Amanda Dalton Clark, the new section chair, spoke recently about her history with the section, its purpose and how criminal law attorneys can benefit by joining. Visit njsba.com to learn more. 

What kind of law do you practice and where? 

Amanda Dalton Clark. Courtesy of NJSBA

I am an assistant prosecutor in Monmouth County, where I've been for six years, currently serving as a member of the trial team. Prior to that I was assistant counsel to Gov. Chris Christie, where I handled the criminal law portfolio, including all of the criminal law legislation, issues with state police, the state Attorney General's office, alcohol beverage control, and even pardons—essentially anything that dealt remotely with the criminal code or something the governor needed advice on in a criminal law context. I also assisted with judicial and prosecutorial appointments. Before that I worked in the Union County Prosecutor's Office as an assistant prosecutor. I began my career clerking for former state Supreme Court Justices Helen Hoens and Faustino Fernandez Vina.