About Mary
Mary T. Costigan: Leading Privacy and Data Security Legal Counsel in New Jersey
Mary T. Costigan is a highly experienced and respected principal attorney at Jackson Lewis P.C.’s Berkeley Heights, New Jersey, office, specializing in navigating the increasingly complex landscape of privacy and cybersecurity law. With a dedicated focus on protecting businesses and individuals from data breaches, regulatory scrutiny, and litigation, Ms. Costigan provides invaluable legal counsel to multinational, national, and regional companies facing challenges related to data protection and security. Her deep expertise and proactive approach make her a trusted legal partner for organizations seeking to proactively manage their data privacy risks and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.
Ms. Costigan’s career is built on a foundation of litigation experience and a keen understanding of legal strategy. Starting as a litigation associate, she honed her skills and developed a strategic mindset, later transitioning to senior litigator and advisory roles within government. This background provides her with a unique perspective on both the legal and operational challenges faced by organizations today. Prior to joining Jackson Lewis, her role as a global privacy manager at KPMG further solidified her expertise in data protection and privacy matters, particularly concerning software applications.
She is a certified Information Privacy Professional/US (IP/US) from the International Association of Privacy Professionals (iapp), reflecting her commitment to staying at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field. Ms. Costigan’s proactive work includes advising clients on compliance with the **General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)** and crucial U.S. privacy and data security standards, such as HIPAA/HITECH, demonstrating a thorough understanding of both domestic and international legal requirements. Her services extend beyond simple compliance; she helps clients build robust data security programs and mitigate potential risks.
Specifically, she assists clients with critical aspects of data protection, including:
- Data Breach Preparation and Response: Ms. Costigan provides strategic guidance on developing comprehensive data breach preparedness plans and assisting clients in responding effectively to breaches, minimizing damage and legal liability.
- Biometric Data Collection Policies: With the growing use of biometric technology, she develops and implements robust policies ensuring ethical and legally compliant data collection practices.
- Vendor Security Assessments: She conducts thorough security assessments of vendors' systems and processes to ensure that third-party data is protected.
- Data Security Agreements, including Business Associate Agreements: Ms. Costigan drafts and negotiates comprehensive data security agreements, including Business Associate Agreements (BAAs) required under HIPAA, safeguarding sensitive information.
Ms. Costigan's experience extends beyond regulatory compliance. She possesses a nuanced understanding of the legal and technical challenges involved in managing data security, enabling her to provide practical, actionable advice. Her skills are invaluable for organizations seeking to establish strong data governance frameworks and minimize their risk exposure. She specializes in assisting clients in navigating the complexities of **privacy and data security law**, offering strategic guidance to minimize liability and enhance data protection measures.
Education & Credentials:
- Practice Areas: Employment Law – Management, Privacy and Data Security Law
- Awards: Recognized: Employment Law – Management, Recognized: Privacy and Data Security Law
- Recognized Since: Recognized in Best Attorney USA since 2024
- City: Berkeley Heights, State: New Jersey, Country: United States
- Legal Expertise: Certified Information Privacy Professional/US (IP/US)
If you are seeking expert legal counsel in privacy and data security matters, Mary T. Costigan at Jackson Lewis P.C. offers a strategic and proactive approach to protecting your organization’s data and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. She is committed to delivering exceptional legal representation and providing invaluable guidance to navigate the ever-changing world of data protection.
