News Release
Governor's Office Appoints Chief Legal Counsel
7/9/2002
Mary Schwarz
406-444-5523
mschwarz@state.mt.us
"The position of legal counsel in the Governor's office is absolutely vital as we do the work of the people," said Governor Judy Martz. "From gaming and water compacts to special session budget issues and corrections matters, strong legal advice is absolutely key on a wide variety of issues."
Santoro joins the Governor's Office from the Montana Department of Labor and Industry, where he has served most recently as the Lead Counsel for that department's Business Standards Division.
"We are excited to have Jim joining us from the Department of Labor and Industry," said Governor Martz. "He has a strong legal background and experience in state government. He also has extensive private sector experience. His work to date on legal matters will be incredibly helpful to our office."
Santoro graduated from Seattle University Law School in 1994, and received a bachelor of science in Biology from Seattle University in 1979. He also has an optometric doctorate (O.D.) from Pacific University College of Optometry, which he received in 1983. He was born October 20, 1957 in Hillsboro, Oregon. He graduated from Ballard High School in Seattle in 1975.
"I am excited about the challenges and opportunities ahead," said Santoro.
"As we enter into the special session and the 2003 Legislative Session, there will be many legal issues paramount to the citizens of this state. It is truly an honor to be accepted for this position, and to serve and support the Office of the Governor in a legal and advisory capacity."
He has been employed with the Department of Labor and Industry since the fall of 2001. From July 2000 until February 2002, he also worked for WalMart Inc. in Helena as their legal liaison in Montana and Washington, and as an optometric physician, affiliated with WalMart Vision Centers. He was also a senior litigation associate with Treece Richdale Malone Law Firm in Seattle from 1997-2000, and served as a prosecutor for the City of Tacoma from 1994-1997.
He is licensed by both Montana and Washington's State Bar, as well as both state's boards of Optometry.
"We have in place a team that provides the best possible services to the State of Montana," said Governor Martz. "I welcome Jim to that team."
Santoro's salary will be $62,000 annually. He replaces Jeff Hindoien, who left the position in May for family reasons. Santoro is married and has one daughter attending Carroll College.
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