Loretta Lynch

Loretta Lynch is a distinguished American lawyer who served as the 83rd Attorney General of the United States from 2015 to 2017. Appointed by President Barack Obama, she made history as the first African-American woman to hold this position. Prior to her role as Attorney General, Lynch was the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, where she oversaw significant federal prosecutions, including high-profile cases involving police misconduct and political corruption. Her leadership in the prosecution of the Abner Louima case and investigations into senior FIFA officials showcased her commitment to justice and accountability.

A Harvard Law School graduate, Lynch began her legal career as a litigation associate before joining the U.S. Attorney’s office in 1990. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the chief of the Long Island office and later the chief assistant U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District. Her tenure as U.S. Attorney was marked by her involvement in landmark cases, including a $7 billion settlement with Citigroup and a $1.2 billion settlement with HSBC, demonstrating her expertise in complex financial investigations.

In 2014, Lynch was nominated to succeed Eric Holder as Attorney General, a process that garnered significant attention and debate. Her confirmation by the Senate was a historic moment, as she became the second woman and the second African American to hold the office. During her time as Attorney General, Lynch addressed critical issues such as civil rights, hate crimes, and police reform, leaving a lasting impact on the Justice Department.

After her tenure, Lynch returned to private practice, joining Paul, Weiss as a partner in the litigation department. She continues to represent clients in high-stakes cases and regulatory matters, including her recent work with the NFL and a lawsuit involving DJI. Lynch’s career reflects her dedication to justice, her legal acumen, and her commitment to public service, making her a prominent figure in American law and governance.