Sami Pfeffer Chahi ’25 worked to contribute meaningfully both in and outside the classroom during his time at Fordham Law. As part of the Federal Litigation Clinic, he helped draft a brief and prepare an oral argument for the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. He was also involved in the Law School community as a journal editor, a board member of a competition team, a club president, a tutor, and a member of Fordham’s Student Bar Association. After graduation, he will clerk in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.
Where did you grow up and go to college?
I was born and raised in New York City. I graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School and later earned my B.A. with a double major in political science and philosophy from Vanderbilt University.
Why did you pick Fordham Law for Law School?
Growing up in New York City, I always knew I wanted to practice law in my hometown. Fordham’s powerful reputation and network laid the foundation for achieving that goal. If that wasn’t enough, my mother, Maxine S. Pfeffer, a federal prosecutor who passed away in 1998, once taught at Fordham Law. This connection made it all the more meaningful as it allowed me to retrace her footsteps at this institution.
What was one of your favorite experiences at Fordham Law?
Competing in the 2024 William M. Tendy Federal Criminal Trial Advocacy Competition was a highlight of my time at Fordham Law. I had the privilege of working with my exceptional co-counsel, Dani D’Annunzio, and teammates Vince Cahill and Cal Mullan under the mentorship of Oliver Phillipson ’19 and Victoria Pascullo ’22. Together, we honed our advocacy skills and learned to think like trial lawyers. Arguing in the Southern District of New York was both exhilarating and personally significant to me, as my mother argued cases in that same courthouse before her passing. But, beyond the courtroom, the camaraderie our team developed made the experience unforgettable. From late-night debates over case theory to weekend practices fueled by bagels and coffee, we built bonds that transcended the competition. More than a test of advocacy, it was a testament to teamwork, resilience, and friendships that I hope will last long after graduation.
What events, activities or organizations were you involved in at Fordham Law?
As a Notes & Articles Editor for the Fordham Urban Law Journal, I was fortunate to markedly improve my legal writing and editing skills, explore cutting-edge scholarship, and write my own note entitled,”Rehabilitating Compassionate Release: An ‘Extraordinary and Compelling’ Case for Increased Judicial Discretion.” As a Business Editor for the Brendan Moore Trial Advocacy Center, I’ve been able to support an organization that is deeply meaningful to me. Outside of academics, as co-president of the Fordham Non-Traditional Law Students Association, I maintain a space for students who, like me, bring diverse backgrounds and experiences to our law school community.
As a student advisor, tutor, and peer mentor, I’ve been humbled to support and more deeply connect with fellow classmates. My involvement in the Student Bar Association and the International Refugee Assistance Project allowed me to advocate in service of others. My participation tethered me to my passion for public interest, reminding me of the difference I can make.
Are there particular professors or mentors you will remember?
To name a few, Professors Andrew Kent, Bruce Green, Caroline Gentile, and Daniel Capra left an indelible mark on my time at Fordham, not only through their brilliance in the classroom but as steadfast mentors. Their guidance—whether discussing complex legal questions, offering career advice, or providing research opportunities—has been invaluable. I am deeply grateful for their support. Beyond Fordham, I am especially thankful to Judge Paul A. Engelmayer, whose mentorship during my 2023 summer internship instilled the importance of preparation, kindness, and intellectual curiosity—lessons I will not soon forget.
What will you be doing after graduation?
This fall, I am deeply honored to be clerking in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. While I plan to enter private practice after my clerkship, my long-term goal is to pursue a career in public service, specifically in government. I look forward to using the skills I continue to develop to “defend those who cannot defend themselves” and meaningfully contribute to our criminal legal system.
What advice do you have for an incoming law student?
My advice to an incoming law student is to seize the meaningful opportunities that come your way, but never at the expense of your mental and physical well-being! While law school offers abundant resources, connections, and experiences that can profoundly shape your future, balance is key. Always remember to extend kindness to your classmates. Everyone is on their own journey. Supporting one another can make all the difference!
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