Jessica M. Laird

Education

Pace University School of Law, J.D. magna cum laude with an advanced certificate in Environmental Law – 2020
St. Joseph’s University, B.S. in Biology & Environmental Studies and Sustainability minor – 2016

Admitted to Practice

New Jersey – 2022
New York – 2020

Relevant Experience

Pace Energy and Climate Center-Staff Attorney & Intern Coordinator
New Jersey Attorney General, Division of Law, Environmental Enforcement Section-Legal Intern
Pace Food and Beverage Law Clinic-Student Attorney and Pro Bono Scholar
Periconi, LLC-Summer Associate
Pace Environmental Litigation Clinic-Student Attorney

Current Affiliations

NJSBA – New Jersey State Bar Association
NYSBA – New York State Bar Association

Questions

Q. What inspired you to become an environmental lawyer? 
A. Growing up at the Jersey Shore I’ve always had an affinity for the outdoors. I was fortunate enough to spend much of my time digging for critters along the shoreline or spotting fins over the horizon. When I went to college, I began to learn about the threats of climate change and the depleting health of our oceans due to anthropogenic activities such as plastic pollution and unsustainable fishing practices. Because of my love for the beach, I wanted to pursue a career that would give me a meaningful role in protecting my childhood home.

Q. What excites you most about the field of environmental law? 
A. What excites me the most about environmental law is that it provides an avenue by which contaminated properties that have been abandoned, or that are otherwise not in use, can be safely remediated and redeveloped. Doing so is not only a win for the environment, but also a win for surrounding areas by enhancing economic growth and spurring additional development.

Q. How do you connect with your clients? 
A. I believe the best way to connect with clients is through communication. To me, it is important to provide an environment that allows the client to openly and comfortably voice their legal problems and personal concerns in order to assess potential solutions available to them and to effectuate the best outcome possible for their personal circumstances.

Q. What are your interests outside of the office (hobbies, activities)?
A. Outside of the office I enjoy taking my dog for walks on the beach, and spending time with friends and family. I also enjoy antique shopping and refurbishing old furniture.