NORRISTOWN, PA — Montgomery County’s Board of Commissioners announced the recent appointment of Benjamin H. Field as the new County Solicitor. Mr. Field, known for his strategic vision and creative problem-solving skills, will assume his new role on April 15, 2024.
“Ben’s rich experience in law and litigation, which spans public safety, consumer protections, and anti-discrimination policies, will be invaluable to our county,” said Jamila H. Winder, Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners. She added that Field’s professional experience with the City of Philadelphia would enhance the county’s programs, policies, services, and employees.
Field has served the City of Philadelphia for seven years, most recently as Chief Deputy City Solicitor for the city’s Affirmative and Special Litigation Unit. His resume also includes stints at several law firms in the area.
The role of the County Solicitor is crucial within the Montgomery County administration, responsible for ensuring that county ordinances and resolutions respect the laws of the County and the Commonwealth. Commissioner Neil Makhija emphasized the county’s commitment to recruiting top talent, calling Field a “brilliant, creative attorney” skilled in navigating law and utilizing litigation to advance local government priorities.
Field’s track record includes overseeing major cases like the opioid litigation and working with diverse stakeholders to develop innovative local policy. His expertise in impact litigation, constitutional and commercial litigation, class action, election law, and alternative dispute resolution are all expected to contribute significantly to Montgomery County.
Marcel S. Pratt, former Philadelphia City Solicitor and current Managing Partner of Ballard Spahr’s Philadelphia office, praised Field as a “phenomenal lawyer” who helped Philadelphia navigate through complex issues. He added, “Montgomery County is fortunate to gain one of the best legal minds in our Commonwealth.”
Field holds a BA in political science from Vassar College, an MA in social sciences from the University of Chicago, and a JD from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School.
The Montgomery County Commissioners expressed their gratitude to Ray McGarry for his excellent service as interim solicitor since July 2023. They look forward to his continued contributions to the welfare of Montgomery County residents.
The appointment of Field is intended to signal Montgomery County’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its legal team to protect residents’ rights and ensure the county’s adherence to the law. It also signals the board’s dedication to recruiting top-tier talent to serve the community, promising a bright future for the county’s legal initiatives.
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