Lucas Girardi (2L) brings a strong interest in transactional law, shaped by his 1L summer internship at MetLife Investment Management. As an Associate Editor of the Seton Hall Journal of Legislation and Public Policy, he continues to sharpen his legal writing while exploring the evolving intersection of law, technology, and business.
What inspired you to pursue a legal career, and what led you to choose Seton Hall Law?
I have always had a passion for writing, which motivated me to pursue a career in law. As an undergraduate, I studied political science and journalism at Boston College, where I developed transferable skills in legal writing. I chose Seton Hall Law because of its strong sense of community among students and faculty, its highly ranked health law program, and its powerful alumni network in the New Jersey legal community.
Can you describe your 1L summer internship at MetLife Investment Management and the types of projects you worked on?
My 1L summer internship with MetLife Investment Management exposed me to various areas of transactional law and the dynamics of an in-house legal team. As a law clerk, I worked on projects in securities law, real estate, and private equity. I researched European anti-money laundering regulations and presented my findings to attorneys to ensure that derivatives trade parties were acting in compliance. On the real estate side, I drafted and reviewed assignments of commercial real estate mortgage loans. I also assisted the debt and fixed income team by reviewing private credit documents for transferability restrictions.
How did your work on the AI matrix tool and other corporate projects shape your understanding of the intersection of law and technology?
During the internship, MetLife provided the law clerks with licenses for a legal AI tool. I learned how to leverage large language models through effective prompt engineering. Using the software, the law clerks and I created an internal AI matrix tool that could extract complete and accurate information from complex private equity documents in a matter of seconds. This experience was valuable, as AI and technology will play a crucial role in the legal field as they continue to evolve.
How was your internship with Mazawey Law Firm different from your in-house internship with MetLife Investment Management?
By working at both a law firm and an investment management firm, I was able to see the practice of law from both a litigation and a transactional perspective. At Mazawey Law Firm, I gained exposure to motion practice, the discovery process, client consultation, and legal research. In my in-house role, I worked on a range of transactional matters, including contract review and redlining, regulatory compliance research, and reviewing private placement documents for potential secondary purchases.
How has your role as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Legislation and Public Policy influenced your analytical and writing skills?
Since joining the Journal of Legislation and Public Policy, my legal writing, research, and Bluebooking skills have improved tremendously. The teamwork and collaboration involved in the editing process have shown me the importance of multiple perspectives in drafting legal scholarship. My time with JLPP has been instrumental in developing my writing skills. Recently, I was honored with the Best Appellant Brief award in my Appellate Advocacy course.
In balancing internships, journal work, and extracurricular leadership roles, what strategies have helped you manage your time effectively?
While juggling many responsibilities in law school, I have found that making time to relax and reset between commitments is key to my success. Although the busy schedule can be difficult to manage at times, I am grateful for all the opportunities available at Seton Hall Law. Approaching my obligations with appreciation has allowed me to maintain balance and still enjoy my interests and social life.
What skills from your undergraduate studies and prior work experiences have been most valuable in law school?
Academically, my journalism background has helped me naturally gravitate toward the structured and methodical style of legal writing. Professionally, working in private practice helped prepare me for law school, as I came in with exposure to areas such as criminal law, family law, and real estate.
How have your extracurricular involvements, such as the Health Law Forum or Rodino Society, enhanced your professional development?
My involvement in student organizations at Seton Hall Law has taught me a great deal about collaboration in leadership roles. As Secretary for the Health Law Forum and Treasurer for the Rodino Society, I have learned that clear communication is essential to effective operations. I will also be participating in a national health law competition at Loyola University Chicago School of Law this spring. Stepping outside my comfort zone with these extracurriculars has significantly contributed to my professional growth.
Looking ahead, how do you see your experiences shaping your post-graduation goals or career path?
As I look toward my legal career, I believe it will be beneficial to have both firm and transactional experience. Additionally, I will be externing with the New Jersey Appellate Division this spring, where I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the court system. I continue to expand my network through classes, student organizations, and professional experiences, and I hope to maintain these relationships as I carve out my legal niche.
What advice would you give to students who want to try many things or are uncertain about what type of law they want to practice?
My advice would be to try as much as you can to see what resonates with you. I was initially hesitant to get involved at the start of 1L, but now I am motivated to keep exploring new opportunities. While I am primarily interested in health law and employment law, I know there is still plenty of time in my career to explore other areas. The bottom line—and something many professors emphasize—is to never rule anything out as a potential career path.
