Ruth Ruggero Hughs, former Texas secretary of state, has joined Kelly Hart's Austin office as a partner in the firm's public law practice, Kelly Hart said.
Hughs was Texas' 113th secretary of state when Gov. Greg Abbott appointed her in August 2019. Hughs was previously chair and commissioner representing employers at the Texas Workforce Commission. She formerly was director of defense litigation at the Texas Attorney General's office, where she managed and oversaw the civil litigation divisions representing agencies statewide. Hughs also is a former small business owner.
"Ms. Hughs brings her wealth of government and legal experience to Kelly Hart to assist our clients in dealing with state government and international issues," Kelly Hart said.
Hughs will join Andrew Weber, former Texas first assistant attorney general, in the firm's public law practice.
"Ruth is a tremendous lawyer, and she is greatly admired for her years of public service at the highest levels," Marianne Auld, Kelly Hart managing partner, said in a release. "Ruth brings an unmatched wealth of experience working with businesses already in Texas as as well as those seeking to locate or work in Texas. Her extensive international and state government experience will make her a tremendous asset, both to our existing clients and to those who seek her counsel in the future."
Hughs received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin and law degree from Rutgers University. She also holds a certificate in leader development from the U.S. Army War College's National Security Seminar.