Name: Mei de Laperouse
Class Year: 2027
Major: Political Science
Minor: Sociology
Internship Organization: New Jersey Courts
Internship Title: Legal Research and Learning Undergraduate Fellow
Location: Superior Court of Monmouth County, NJ
What’s happening at your internship? We would love to hear what kind of work you are doing!
This summer, I have had the privilege of interning for the Honorable Natalie S. Watson in the Criminal Division of the Monmouth County Superior Court. Every day has provided a unique opportunity to observe the judicial process from the inside and gain a deeper understanding of how the courts function.
Photo of Judge Watson and me
Throughout the internship, I have attended a wide range of criminal proceedings, including sentencing hearings, conferences, and Megan’s Law tier classification hearings. Observing these proceedings has allowed me to see firsthand how judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and court staff work together to ensure that each case is considered carefully and fairly. It has also given me a greater appreciation for the preparation, professionalism, and collaboration required behind every courtroom decision.
Beyond observing proceedings, I have also assisted with legal research and writing. I have researched issues involving evidentiary standards and drafted Statements of Facts for judicial opinions, experiences that have strengthened my legal writing, analytical reasoning, and attention to detail. Combining courtroom observation with substantive legal research has allowed me to better understand not only how legal principles are applied, but also how judicial decisions are developed through careful analysis of the law and the facts.
Why did you apply for this internship?
I applied for the Legal Clerkship Internship because it combined my academic interests with my commitment to public service. Throughout college, I have become increasingly interested in government, the judiciary, and the role courts play in resolving complex legal and social issues. At the same time, my experiences outside the classroom have shown me how deeply the legal system affects people’s lives.
What has been your favorite part of this internship?
My favorite part of this internship has been observing Judge Watson preside over hearings and conferences. Before this experience, my understanding of the law came primarily from textbooks and judicial opinions. Watching legal arguments unfold in real time has shown me the complexity of trial court decision-making and the careful judgment required to resolve each case.
One experience that particularly stood out was a sentencing hearing in which Judge Watson carefully considered not only the seriousness of the offense but also whether incarceration alone would best serve the defendant or whether additional resources could better promote rehabilitation. What struck me most was that this thoughtful approach was not unique to one case; it reflected the care, preparation, and empathy she brings to every matter before the court.
That same philosophy is evident in the way Judge Watson interacts with everyone who enters her courtroom. She speaks directly to defendants with honesty and respect, holding them accountable while reminding them that one mistake does not define their future. She also recognizes individuals who have made meaningful progress toward rebuilding their lives. At the same time, she demonstrates genuine compassion toward victims and their families, ensuring they feel heard while acknowledging the lasting impact that crimes have had on their lives.
Outside the courtroom, Judge Watson has been an exceptional mentor. She has encouraged me to seek opportunities that challenge me, shared her experiences navigating the legal profession as a woman, and emphasized the importance of supporting future generations of women entering the field.
Watching Judge Watson lead her courtroom with integrity, empathy, and professionalism has been the most rewarding part of this internship. Her example has reinforced my desire to pursue a career in law and has shown me that effective advocacy and leadership require not only legal knowledge, but also compassion, humility, and respect for every person who comes before the court.
What has been the biggest challenge you have faced at your internship?
The biggest challenge I have faced during this internship has been learning how to approach emotionally difficult cases with the objectivity required of legal research and judicial decision-making. Working in the Criminal Division has exposed me to serious offenses, and balancing empathy with professional responsibility has been an important skill to develop.
One experience that has stayed with me was the first sentencing hearing I observed. The defendant was the same age as I am, which prompted me to reflect on how two people can arrive at such different circumstances despite being at similar stages of life. Listening to the discussion of the defendant’s background highlighted how factors such as opportunity, family support, and life experiences can shape an individual’s path long before they enter a courtroom.
Conducting research on Megan’s Law matters has presented a similar challenge. Many of the cases involve disturbing subject matter, requiring me to separate my emotional reactions from the legal analysis needed to evaluate statutes, precedent, and the factual record. Over time, I have learned that remaining objective does not mean becoming indifferent but rather it means carefully applying the law while recognizing the real people whose lives are affected by every decision.
Perhaps the most important lesson I have taken away is a greater appreciation for the responsibility judges carry each day. Observing Judge Watson has shown me that every decision requires not only careful legal analysis but also sound judgment, patience, and an awareness of how a ruling can affect victims, defendants, their families, and the broader community. This experience has deepened my respect for the judiciary and given me a far more nuanced understanding of the challenges and responsibilities that come with administering justice.