What inspired you to pursue a career in law?First, I have always had a deep-seated belief in the need for justice in all aspects of life, both domestically and internationally. Second, I have always enjoyed the capacity to make moral arguments.
Can you share a memorable experience from law school that shaped your perspective on legal practice?I took a trial advocacy course in which students participated in an actual trial, and I learned that all aspects of law matter, including total transparency. For example, my client in the course wore shaded glass on the witness stand, which impacted the jury’s deliberations. Accordingly, the jury wondered if he had something to hide.
What area of law are you most passionate about, and why do you find it compelling?I am most passionate about constitutional law. I participated in the legal cases brought by Deep State operatives who sought to prevent President Donald Trump’s name from being placed on the ballot in Colorado, Maine, and other states. These cases determined if the full sweep and force of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment disqualified Donald Trump from the presidency.
The ACLJ’s legal team emphasized that the original, public meaning of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment was difficult to discern. However, based on our reading of the Constitution, Mr. Trump could not be disqualified. We made legal arguments on the Sekulow broadcast and in legal briefs that we filed with the various courts. The Supreme Court ultimately agreed with the ACLJ and others who argued on behalf of President Trump. Hence, President Trump was able to successfully run for office despite the widespread legal effort to weaponize the justice system.
How do you stay motivated and focused during challenging cases?I enjoy participating in intellectually challenging cases. Indeed, the more challenging the case, the better.
Who has been a significant mentor or influence in your legal journey, and what did you learn from them?Two individuals have been significant mentors on my legal journey. The first is Professor John Dolan, one of my most challenging law professors, who was known as “D+ Dolan” for
his willingness to hand out low grades. However, I was one of his best students, and he helped me become a law professor. The second is ACLJ Chief Counsel Jay Sekulow. I’ve always been impressed with his commitment to the pro-life cause and his forceful defense of the Constitution. Both Professor Dolan and Chief Counsel Sekulow provided brilliant examples of how to practice law.
What skills or experiences from your past are most beneficial in your role?From a practical perspective, what is most beneficial to the practice of law is my capacity to examine virtually every legal argument with a great deal of skepticism until and unless every argument is backed up by the Constitution, U.S. Supreme Court precedent, and facts.
How are you contributing to the ACLJ’s mission?My contribution to the ACLJ’s mission is grounded in my extensive experience in policy, law, and economics. Second, as I mentioned earlier, I examine virtually every legal argument with a great deal of skepticism until and unless each argument is backed up by both the Constitution and U.S. Supreme Court precedent. Third, I am able to support controversial arguments based on hard-headed analysis. Fourth, I have written over 60 law review articles and written or contributed to three books. In addition, I have written nearly 100 articles, many of which are on behalf of the ACLJ.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work to maintain a work-life balance?Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, traveling, and reading a wide range of subjects, from law to theology.
What advice would you give to recent law graduates who are just starting their careers?Focus foremost on gaining interesting legal experience while learning as much as possible. Then your legal career will take care of itself.
