Our Interview With Jordan Assaraf, Associate at Gluckstein Lawyers

Jordan joined Gluckstein Lawyers in 2012 as an articling student and became an associate lawyer in 2013. He holds a Juris Doctor from Bond University in Australia and completed his Canadian accreditation in 2012 after earning his undergraduate degree from York University. His practice focuses on all areas of personal injury litigation, including motor vehicle accidents, class actions, mass torts, occupier’s liability, product liability, medical malpractice, and accident benefit claims. Beyond his legal work, Jordan is deeply committed to supporting individuals with disabilities, serving as Chair of the Brain Injury Society of Toronto’s Board of Directors and holding leadership roles with Variety Village Children’s Charity, ParaSport Ontario, and the American Association of Justice.

1. What motivated you to pursue a career in law?

During my gap year, the work I was doing didn't seem to actively engage my mind or help me continue to develop my skills. This led me to consider an industry where I could challenge myself intellectually while also leveraging a talent I believed I possessed.

2. What do you wish you had known about the law school application process before you applied?

The application process can be lengthy and overwhelming, so it's important to begin your preparations as early as your first year of undergrad.

3. A lot of students struggle with the law school personal statement. What did your brainstorming, writing, and editing process look like, and what do you think made yours stand out from the crowd?

I went to a law school that didn't require one. Of course, the easier the application was, the more the school stood out for me.

4. What was the biggest challenge that caught you off guard when you sat down to write the LSAT?

The length of the LSAT certainly caught me off guard.

5. How much work experience did you gain before applying to law school? What opportunities did you pursue, and what helped you the most during the application process?

Taking a gap year allowed me to explore various interests and gain a clearer understanding of my goals. This period of reflection and exploration was instrumental in steering me towards a career in law. I realized that law offered the intellectual challenges I sought and aligned with my desire to make a meaningful impact.

6. Did you have any setbacks or rejections during the law school admissions process, and what did you learn from those experiences?

Since I hadn't prepared for or shown interest in law school during my undergrad, the application process was harder. I realized I should have put more effort into my undergrad to help with any post-grad plans.

7. What led you to specialize in Class Actions and Mass Torts? What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue your specialty? What

activities/events/opportunities would you recommend for students wanting to pursue Class Actions and Mass Torts/Personal Injury law?

Networking is crucial in the legal profession. When I was exploring my options, I made it a point to have coffee with every lawyer I knew. These informal conversations were invaluable, providing me with insights into the realities of various legal specializations. I asked as many questions as possible, ranging from the day-to-day responsibilities to the long-term career prospects in each area of law.

Additionally, I sought out internships and volunteer opportunities in different legal settings. This hands-on experience allowed me to see the practical applications of the theoretical knowledge I gained during my studies. It was through these experiences that I was able to identify my passion for personal injury litigation. For anyone considering a career in law, I highly recommend getting as much practical experience as possible before making a decision. This not only helps in choosing the right specialization but also strengthens your application by demonstrating your commitment and proactive approach to your career development.

8. How do you think AI is affecting law school admissions?

I believe AI is having a substantial impact on law school admissions. Admissions committees are likely noticing a surge in similarities among cover letters and personal statements that have been edited or rewritten by AI. While AI tools can help candidates refine their narratives and present their experiences more compellingly, they also run the risk of making applications appear generic. This technological influence underscores the importance of authenticity and personal touch in application materials. Candidates must strive to infuse their unique voices and individual experiences to stand out in a sea of AI-assisted submissions.

9. What are some emerging fields of law that you would recommend potential students to start thinking about if they want to future-proof themselves in the industry?

For students looking to future-proof their careers, focusing on emerging fields such as technology law, environmental law, and international arbitration can provide a competitive edge. These areas are growing rapidly due to global digital transformation and increased regulatory scrutiny. Engaging in courses, internships, and networking opportunities related to these fields can prepare aspiring lawyers for the evolving demands of the legal market and position them at the forefront of legal innovation.

10. What are the biggest sacrifices you’ve had to make to pursue a career in law?

One of the biggest sacrifices I've had to make to pursue a career in law was the sheer amount of time and effort I dedicated to my studies and professional development. Working my rear end off to get where I wanted meant countless long nights, giving up on social events, and missing out on family gatherings. The intensity of the workload was relentless. Balancing my academic responsibilities with internships, networking, and other extracurricular activities left little room for a personal life. However, each sacrifice was a stepping stone towards achieving my goals. Persevere to get where you want.

11. Bonus question: How much would we have to pay you to take the LSAT again?

I wouldn't do it. I would be a TikTok influencer; that doesn't require even a B.A. The idea of leveraging social media platforms to build a career without the traditional academic paths is increasingly appealing, as we can all bear witness to changing times.

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Juris Education is proud to interview experts like Jordan to help future lawyers understand the challenges and rewards of a legal career. Learn more about how our experts can help you get into law school today.