There are situations where good outcomes can blossom from terrible developments. In the precipitous downfall of Eric Schneiderman Monday evening, news that Barbara Underwood, then the state solicitor general, would be taking the helm of the attorney general’s office was just such a situation, according to observers familiar with her background.

“Barbara Underwood is a brilliant lawyer who has devoted her professional life to serving the criminal justice system,” New York City Corporation Counsel Zachary Carter said in a statement Tuesday. “Her north star has always been doing the right thing under all circumstances. I cannot think of a more appropriate steward for the position of NY Attorney General.”