Joseph Gagliardi '26

My summer internship at the Suffolk County Courts was an extremely fruitful and enlightening opportunity that broadened my understanding of the legal process. I was able to intern under three judges across the matrimonial, family, and district courts. Across the courts, I was able to observe divorce cases, child custody cases, criminal proceedings, and veterans court proceedings. I was able to gain first-hand experience in how judges have to handle the law in sensitive situations. I was also able to help edit court documents and brief cases under the supervision of the judges' law clerks.

Honestly, what impacted me most was being able to watch and meet with so many different practicing attorneys. I was able to meet dozens of attorneys while sitting in for attorney conferences, and a few while observing the court. To be able to see how they speak, argue, and present themselves differently was a very interesting experience which helped me understand how every attorney handles the law differently. The whole process helped me realize how I can shape myself into the exact attorney that I want to be, while I was also able to gain advice from experienced ones.

I would like to send a deep thank you to the Letros and the UB Law School donors for making my summer experience possible. I have gained invaluable experience at the courts this summer and I would not have been able to do it without you; I would not have been able to work this internship 5x a week without the scholarship. This experience has given me a real feel for the law that I was unable to get in class. I am truly appreciative and hope that I can one day return the favor to a UB Law student in a similar situation to me.