May 05, 2025

Joseph Lopes

Why did you choose to go to law school?

Before attending law school, I studied development economics and had the opportunity to visit regions with diverse and pressing needs. Through my interactions in those places, I observed a remarkable resilience and ability to tackle challenges among people experiencing displacement. However, I also noticed that a place where people seemed to need special support was in navigating complex and highly specialized legal systems. This realization inspired me to pursue a career in law, recognizing that even small legal interventions could create a meaningful impact. This desire to empower others and make a difference is what ultimately drew me to the legal profession.

Why Catholic Law? (prior to attending)

Joseph Lopes at orientationWhen I began exploring law schools, I also made the decision to join the Catholic tradition. A spiritual director at the University of Delaware strongly recommended Catholic University as a place where I could grow both intellectually and spiritually. Inspired by this advice, I applied, and from the moment I arrived, I immersed myself in the Church and embraced the intellectual and spiritual depth of the Catholic faith. I joined the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA); began attending the 10:00 p.m. daily Mass (which quickly became my preferred destination after a long day in the library); and found encouraging friends as I grew in the faith.

What also attracted me to Catholic Law was its strong connection to regulatory agencies and the diverse pathways it offers into public service law. During my time here, I’ve had the opportunity to study market regulation, immigration law, and comparative and international law. The faculty in these programs are outstanding—seasoned experts who bring both academic rigor and practical, real-world insights to their teaching.

What Externships or other practical experiences did you do at Catholic Law?

Joseph Lopes on Lumpkin tripDuring my first year of law school, I had the opportunity to travel to Lumpkin, Georgia, over spring break to assist individuals pursuing immigration relief in the United States. This experience was transformative, offering me, as a first-year student, an early understanding of the gravity and privilege of practicing law in the immigration field. That summer, I interned with a Superior Court judge in Delaware, a Catholic Law alumnus, where I gained invaluable insights into the judiciary. Additionally, I dedicated two terms to the Immigration and Refugee Advocacy Clinic, further deepening my commitment to serving vulnerable communities through the legal profession. I spent my second summer of law school interning for an immigration advocacy group that I had connected with at the University.

What experiences at Catholic Law were highlights for you?

My time in the clinic was a defining experience. Working on real cases gave me invaluable insight into the realities of being a lawyer and the profound responsibilities that come with the profession. It deepened my understanding of the impact legal services can have on individuals and highlighted the critical role law plays in shaping lives.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to take the following two months to prepare for the July administration of the Delaware Bar Exam. After that, I plan to enter practice in the public sector of the law.

Why Catholic Law now?

Joseph LopesCatholic Law has equipped me to serve with both humility and competence in my vocation. The school’s academic rigor, exceptional staff and faculty, and deeply human-centered culture make it an outstanding institution. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone pursuing a legal career. My hope is that others entering the field of law will gain from these qualities, and bring both valuable insights and well-rounded perspectives to the profession.