Baleigh Weidenhamer ’25 Secures Clerkship with Texas Criminal Court of Appeals

Home Law School News Baleigh Weidenhamer ’25 Secures Clerkship with Texas Criminal Court of Appeals

Meet Baleigh Weidenhamer ’25, and learn more about her story at South Texas Law in this Student Spotlight by the Career Resource Center. 

Why did you choose to attend South Texas College of Law Houston?

I am originally from Indiana and attended Indiana University. I wanted to move somewhere new and to a bigger city. When searching for schools, South Texas College of Law Houston stood out to me because of its location in downtown Houston. Being in a city with a dynamic legal market, I knew this school would offer invaluable access to internships, networking, and hands-on experience. 

Where are you working after graduation?

I have accepted a judicial clerkship with the Honorable Bert Richardson on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

How did you secure that opportunity?

I originally participated in the Career Resource Center’s Judicial Internship resume collection, where I secured two internships with district court judges in Houston. I recognized my love for clerking with judges. This led me to secure another clerkship with the First Court of Appeals. This opportunity put me in the same room as a judge for the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, which led to my applying for a post-graduate clerkship with the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

How did the Career Resource Center help you successfully navigate the recruitment process?

The CRC helped me discover my love for clerking. Once I applied to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and secured an interview, Marie made sure I prepared for the interview by sending me helpful material. She also called me to discuss interviews and always had great advice on communicating with judges. 

What are your career goals?

I would like to secure another clerkship following my time at the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. I also would like to become a prosecutor in the future and potentially a professor. 

What advice would you share with future law students going through recruitment?

Never give up on yourself! The recruitment process can be long, and many times we strike out. Rejection can be hurtful but ultimately can lead you to where you are meant to be. When one door closes, another one opens! It’s also important to continue to encourage your friends and classmates when they receive an opportunity that you may not have yet received. You will want them rooting for you when your opportunity comes around.

Which professors have influenced you and or your career path the most?

Professor Sharon Finegan has given me so much support. She assisted me in becoming the managing editor of South Texas Law Review, she is the advising professor on my law review comment, and she helped me secure my position at the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals by writing a letter of recommendation. She has always encouraged me and believed in me! Tony Zamora also has supported me since I was a 1L. He is always encouraging, is always willing to help with any class I am taking, and he offers great career advice. He cares deeply about his students, and he has always kept me humble!  

What student organizations have you been involved with?

I am the managing editor of South Texas College of Law, vice president of the Environmental Law Society, and a member of the Phi Delta Phi Legal Honor Society.  

How has the South Texas Law community supported your growth?

I have experienced tremendous personal and professional growth over the past three years in law school. South Texas Law has taught me how to work harder than I have ever had to work, whether in my classes or joining law review. It has provided me with opportunities, such as clerkships with law firms and judges, that have given me hands-on legal experience. It has been the hardest and most rewarding three years, and I am grateful for the community of people I now have around me. 

What is something interesting about you we can’t learn from your resume?

I gained an interest in public service when I was at Indiana University, specifically when I volunteered at a domestic violence shelter. This led me to a job as a social worker the year before I began my law school journey. This further sparked my interest in criminal law and becoming a prosecutor. It taught me that every adventure we take has a purpose and meaning!   

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