Former NJ Transit General Counsel Brian Wilton is joining the national bipartisan government affairs practice at one of New Jersey’s top law firms.

In a March 21 press release, Newark-based McCarter & English LLP said it will welcome Wilton as a partner later this year.

Wilton brings more than 20 years of experience in public service to the firm. Most recently, he served three years as the first-ever general counsel for NJ Transit, where he built an entire legal department from the ground up at the largest statewide public transit system in the U.S.

Prior to NJ Transit, Wilton spent three years as deputy chief counsel and director of authorities for Gov. Phil Murphy’s office. Wilton’s background also includes a term as mayor of Lake Como and 10 years on the borough council. He was also a prosecutor for Freehold and Red Bank, as well as co-managing partner of a private law firm.

At McCarter & English, many members of the government affairs practice team have worked for current and former U.S. presidents, held high-level posts in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, or served in state and local government. The group services clients across a broad range of industries, health care, cannabis, food and beverage, real estate, transportation, telecom, manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.

‘Another true advocate’

Guillermo Artiles, chair of McCarter’s government affairs practice, remarked, “We are excited to have Brian join our team of bipartisan experts who understand the importance of politics in every business decision—few understand that more than Brian. Our clients across industries, especially those in transportation, energy, and infrastructure, will benefit greatly from his representation.”

Firmwide managing partner Joe Boccassini added, “Brian’s experience in the infrastructure, transportation, health care, and energy industries will provide our clients with another true advocate as we continue strengthening our prominent Government Affairs practice. We are thrilled he will be joining the firm and look forward to leveraging his experience on behalf of our clients.”

Wilton received his law degree from Seton Hall University School of Law and bachelor’s degree from the University of Scranton.

“Joining McCarter & English provides an exciting opportunity to continue the work I’ve been doing for years combining government, business, and law. I look forward to leveraging my experience to help clients navigate policy challenges and achieve their business goals.”

NJ Transit confirmed with NJBIZ that current Chief Compliance Officer Chris Iu will succeed Wilton as acting general counsel while the agency works to fill the role permanently.