AUGUSTA - Gov. John Baldacci's chief legal counsel, Michael Mahoney, will leave the administration to return to private practice next month.

Mahoney, of Cape Elizabeth, joined the administration in December 2006, replacing Tom Federle. Mahoney had been a partner with Portland law firm PretiFlaherty.

Mahoney and Federle are joining to create a new private practice firm, FederleMahoney. The firm will be based in Hallowell.

"I will miss Mike's expansive knowledge and expertise. He has served my administration and the people of Maine with distinction, providing key guidance in critical legal and policy issues during challenging economic times," Baldacci said in a statement today.