Jillian Riedel (3LW), a school social worker with the Parsippany-Troy Hills School District, brings a unique perspective to Seton Hall Law. This summer, she interned with Judge Petrillo in the Complex Business Litigation Program, and next summer she will continue her journey in business law at Lowenstein Sandler LLP.
What inspired you to pursue a law degree after building a successful career in social work?
I bought my first LSAT book the year I graduated from college, and I started to study several times over the next decade. When the pandemic hit, I realized I wanted to be in a position with more flexibility to do remote work. With the support of my husband and family, I decided to dive in, and I’m so grateful that I did.
How has your background as a school social worker influenced your perspective as a law student?
Being a social worker has shifted my worldview in many ways, and I think that has helped me in law school to look at problems from a broader angle. This doesn’t necessarily help me on finals, but it has helped me recognize different aspects of a case that may not be written in a judgment or brief. I think it helps me read beyond the information and remember that there are people behind every case.
Can you share a memorable experience from your summer judicial internship with Judge Petrillo?
Judge Petrillo moderated a panel of judges who spoke about their paths to the bench. Every judge emphasized the importance of building relationships, and they explained how those relationships had helped them get to where they are. I thought this was a great reminder to look beyond grades and papers and focus on the people we meet in law school, since those relationships will matter in the future.
What drew you to the Complex Business Litigation Program, and what skills have you been able to strengthen through this work?
I knew I wanted to do a judicial internship, and I also knew I wasn’t interested in criminal or family law. When I was introduced to Judge Petrillo and heard about the types of cases he handled, I was intrigued. Since I was already interested in corporate law, I thought this would be an excellent opportunity to be exposed to different areas.
You’ve already secured an internship with Lowenstein Sandler LLP for next summer — what are you most excited to learn or experience there?
Next summer, I hope to narrow down the area of business law I want to pursue. I’ll be doing some litigation as well as real estate and contract work. I’m excited to experience the life of an associate and to make connections.
You’ve achieved notable academic honors and moot court competition success — what has been the most rewarding part of these achievements?
Part of my delay in attending law school was that I wasn’t sure if I really had what it took to be a lawyer. Each accomplishment, especially winning Gressman, has reinforced that I made the right decision in coming to law school. It makes all the sacrifices feel worth it and confirms that I’m on the right path.
How do you manage to balance your demanding career, law school, and family life?
Flexibility, determination, and time management. No two weeks look the same when it comes to kids’ schedules, work, and school assignments, so keeping up with everything is a constant exercise in flexibility. I’m determined to do my best in all these areas, and if I get it all done, I’m happy. I also work whenever I can. It may be an hour here or there, but a lot can get done in small chunks.
What advice would you give to other students juggling professional work and law school?
Prioritize and keep going. Some weeks will be tougher than others, but keep doing your best and moving forward. And celebrate your accomplishments!
Outside of your professional life, you enjoy fitness, travel, and time with your family — how do these interests help keep you grounded?
Fitness and time with my family keep me present. They reduce my stress (most of the time!) and keep me level-headed. Travel gives me something to look forward to during busy times. I love knowing there’s a trip waiting at the end of a hard semester.
Looking ahead, how do you envision combining your social work background with your legal career to make an impact?
My sincere hope is that I will never forget the roots of my social work background and will always treat my peers and clients with the knowledge that we are all human and facing challenges. Meeting with a lawyer can be extremely stressful, so I hope to use my social work skills to make the experience a little less overwhelming for the people I work with.
