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Students considering careers in law received firsthand guidance on April 14 when Highlanders for Criminal Justice hosted a panel featuring former federal prosecutor Lawrence Leiser and trademark attorney Erik Pelton.

The event introduced students to different legal careers, the responsibilities involved and the paths lawyers take to reach their positions. It also gave attendees an opportunity to ask questions about the LSAT, law school and professional opportunities.

Sophomore Rebecca Sarmiento said the discussion provided useful career information and connections while helping her better understand what pursuing law could involve.

Founded in October 2025, Highlanders for Criminal Justice promotes advocacy around criminal justice issues.

Leiser spent 43 years as a prosecutor, including service as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia within the Department of Justice. After retiring from that position, he began teaching at George Mason University.

He told students that a legal education can lead to widely varied work, from criminal prosecution to corporate law. Leiser also emphasized the unusual responsibility carried by prosecutors, whom he described as gatekeepers responsible for protecting a potential defendant’s rights even when that person may have committed a crime.

Pelton approaches the profession from a different direction. At his own firm, he represents clients in trademark disputes and assists entrepreneurs seeking to protect their brands. He used the panel to explain how trademark practice differs from other legal fields.

Despite their contrasting specialties, both attorneys stressed that aspiring lawyers need strong analytical and advocacy abilities. Pelton encouraged students interested in law school to concentrate on critical thinking, reading and writing as foundational skills.

Pelton also said the justice system benefits from lawyers with a broad range of backgrounds, abilities and perspectives.