Genova Burns announced Oct. 6 that Christine Ann Soto, a nationally recognized education equity advocate and general counsel, has joined the law firm as of counsel.
With more than two decades of experience in government, higher education, and private practice, Soto has advised boards, presidents, and senior leadership teams. Most recently, she served as general counsel of Essex County College, where she resolved complex litigation, co-led labor negotiations, modernized Title IX compliance, and oversaw legal strategy for a $60 million capital project.
Her public service includes executive leadership at the New Jersey Department of Education, where she provided statewide legal guidance and served as acting director of the Office of Fiscal Accountability and Compliance. Soto has also counseled large urban school districts as a private practitioner, founded her own education law firm, and represented families in special education and guardianship matters.
“Christine brings a remarkable combination of public-sector insight, higher education experience, and unwavering commitment to equity in education,” said Angelo J. Genova, chairman and co-founder of Genova Burns. “Her depth of knowledge and proven leadership will be invaluable to our clients across the region.”
A frequent presenter on education law, employment compliance, and equity policy, Soto has been recognized on Insider NJ’s Annual Women’s Power List, named a ROI-NJ Influencer in Women in Business, and honored by the Essex County Bar Association and Executive Women of New Jersey.
“I am honored to join Genova Burns, a firm that reflects both excellence in the law and dedication to serving communities across New Jersey and the region,” Soto said. “I look forward to partnering with colleagues and clients to advance meaningful outcomes in education, employment, and governance.”
Genova Burns is based in Newark and has offices in Jersey City, Basking Ridge, and New York City.
