Christian Gladish (3L) has built a strong litigation foundation through judicial internships with the Honorable Michael Noriega and the Honorable Esther Salas, along with firm experience at O’Toole & Scrivo. As a future law clerk to Judge Maritza Berdote Byrne, he continues refining his advocacy, research, and writing skills.
What initially drew you to pursue a legal career, and what led you to choose Seton Hall Law?
I chose Seton Hall Law based on the school’s reputation in New Jersey. I pursued a legal career because I was inspired by individuals who stood up for what was right and fought on behalf of their communities. I believed that a legal career would equip me with the skills to become like them.
You have completed multiple judicial internships at both the state and federal levels. What first sparked your interest in judicial work?
My interest in judicial work sparked during my gap year while working at the Elizabeth Immigration Court. I gained valuable insight from the judges I worked alongside and realized how beneficial it would be to understand what moves the needle during litigation—what works, what doesn’t, and what to avoid when appearing before a judge.
How did your 1L summer experience with the Honorable Michael Noriega influence your approach to legal research and writing?
I learned how essential the standard of review is. Even if a judge wants to rule in your favor, they cannot unless you meet that standard. It is important to understand the applicable standard of review and marshal the facts to support it in order to achieve a favorable outcome.
During the Spring 2025 semester, you interned with the Honorable Esther Salas in the U.S. District Court. How did that experience differ from your state court work?
The experience differed because it was at a federal trial court, whereas I had previously interned at a state appellate court. At the appellate court, I reviewed briefs describing what happened before or during trial. At the trial court, I saw proceedings firsthand. These experiences gave me two different perspectives: making a decision and reviewing a decision. Both were equally valuable and connected me with great judges and clerks, whom I still keep in touch with.
What insights did you gain from your 2L summer at O’Toole & Scrivo, and how did firm practice complement your judicial experiences?
Two major aspects of firm practice that complemented my judicial experience were: (1) depositions and mediations, and (2) client interaction. I had little exposure to clients in my prior internships because I worked with the court and the government, but at the firm, I saw what it was like to communicate with clients and keep them informed about their cases. I also observed depositions and mediations, which are key components of litigation. One highlight of my summer was watching a mediator settle a case that could have taken 4–5 years in just 4–5 hours.
You will be clerking post-graduation for the Honorable Maritza Berdote Byrne. What are you most looking forward to about this role?
I am looking forward to several things, but especially: (1) working with and receiving feedback from the judge; (2) improving my legal research and writing skills; and (3) gaining exposure to a variety of legal issues.
As an Associate Editor and Digital & Technology Editor for the Journal of Legislation and Public Policy, how has journal work shaped your analytical and editing skills?
The first thing that comes to mind is that Journal helped me navigate the Bluebook and become more comfortable with citations. I am by no means perfect, but I feel confident that I can cite—or figure out how to cite—most sources as a result of my experience.
Looking back, what has been the most challenging aspect of law school, and how have you navigated it successfully?
The most challenging aspect has been managing stress, academic performance, and interpersonal relationships. Law school can be an emotional rollercoaster and sometimes brings out the worst in people. I’ve found it important to do my best, celebrate my wins, and remember that my classmates are peers—not competitors. I came into law school hoping to build lifelong friendships, and I hope those connections continue throughout my career.
What advice would you offer to students interested in pursuing judicial internships or clerkships during and after law school?
A few key pieces of advice: (1) apply early; (2) apply and let them reject you—don’t reject yourself; (3) talk to other students about their experiences; and (4) carefully review your application materials before submitting them.
