TRENTON, N.J. (Legal Newsline) - Paula Dow was sworn in as New Jersey's attorney general Tuesday, making her the first African-American woman to hold the position.

Dow was nominated by new Gov. Chris Christie, under whom former Attorney General Anne Milgram declined to work. Dow has been serving as the acting attorney general since Jan. 19 and was approved by the state Senate Monday.

Christie nominated the Democrat even though he is a Republican. The two worked together when Christie was a U.S. Attorney.

Dow has worked as the Essex County prosecutor since 2003, and was sworn in as president of the state's County Prosecutor's Association last year.

She received her law degree from Pennsylvania University.

While serving as acting attorney general, she has announced a pair of settlements regarding the fall of the auction rate securities market -- one with Bank of America and one with RBC Capital Markets.

"The Attorney General leads a department with many vital responsibilities - responsibilities that are crucial to the safety and quality of life of those who live, work and travel in New Jersey," Dow said.

"I am humbled by the faith Governor Christie and the Senate have shown in my ability to do the job. I look forward to working with them - as well as our law enforcement partners at every level - to protect the public and carry out all aspects of the department's mission with a commitment to even-handedness, efficiency and excellence."

From Legal Newsline: Reach John O'Brien by e-mail at jobrienwv@gmail.com.