
Judge Rivas shares his advice on what students interested in legal careers can do to prepare.
What are you doing now?
As the assignment judge, I am responsible for the operation of the court. I supervise 30 judges and over 500 employees. I also maintain a docket of cases that I handle including detention hearings and orders to show cause.
What do you like most about this position?
It draws on all my experiences both legal and nonlegal.
What advice do you have for a student exploring career options in your field?
Best advice is to intern for a judge.
When you think about your Princeton experience, what was helpful in preparing you for your career?
Learning to work hard and quickly assimilate information.
What advice do you have for students interested in becoming an assignment judge?
Take law-related courses, attend events where judges and lawyers are presenting. I do not hire until after law school graduation so that has to be completed first.
What do you look for when hiring new graduates?
Writing skills, good interpersonal skills and interesting people.