The Delaware Court of Chancery stands as one of the most prestigious and influential courts in the United States, particularly in corporate and business law. For law students with an interest in corporate law, externing at the Court offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with some of the most complex and high-stakes cases in the nation.
Law students who secure an externship at the Court are given the chance to observe and even contribute to the resolution of disputes that shape the legal framework for United States corporate law. The Court’s decisions influence not only Delaware law but also the national corporate landscape, making this externship an invaluable experience for students seeking to make their mark in the business law world.
One of the most significant aspects of this externship is the immersion in judicial decision-making. Externs work closely with law clerks and under the supervision of the sitting Vice Chancellors who oversee some of the most complex and high-profile business cases in the country. Students gain an insider’s view of how the Vice Chancellors analyze legal arguments, apply statutory and case law, and consider the broader implications of their decisions on both the legal system and the economy at large. This level of engagement not only enhances students’ legal research and writing skills but also sharpens their ability to think critically about the law and its impact on the business world.
Julianna Simpson ‘25 externed with Vice Chancellor Fioravanti ‘97 at the Delaware Court of Chancery during the Fall 2024 semester. Simpson shared her experience:
“During my time at the Delaware Court of Chancery, I was able to gain firsthand experience into some of the largest corporate litigation in the country. I worked under the supervision of Vice Chancellor Fioravanti and his law clerks and helped draft court orders, rulings, and opinions, and I was able to observe numerous court proceedings. My work during the externship was very much self-led, so I was able to see issues from start to finish, and I felt that this helped me gain a close understanding of each case.
The research and writing practice that I gained at Chancery will be invaluable in practice; however, I believe that the most valuable experiences I gained were the in-chambers conversations with the team. These discussions provided insight into the nuances of litigation beyond just the black-letter law, and they provided an opportunity to build confidence in my own legal judgment. By discussing potential outcomes with the clerks and the Vice Chancellor, I was able to get a real taste of the types of decisions that I will have to make in practice. This experience has made me more confident in making legal judgments and communicating them to others.
This experience has also given me a clearer understanding of litigation strategy, which I am confident will be an asset in my practice. Working with some of the best law clerks and judges in the country was truly an incredible experience, and I feel that I have developed a professional community for life. Overall, my time at the Chancery Court was the highlight of my law school career thus far.”