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Lauren Godfrey, Shaun Goodfriend Pen Article for ABA’s Student Lawyer Blog on Beginning a Career in Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Law

Pittsburgh, Penn. (March 2, 2021) - Pittsburgh Partner Lauren D. Godfrey and New York Associate Shaun G. Goodfriend recently published an article for the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Student Lawyer blog titled “How to Land a Job in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Law.” The article discusses strategies for law students who seek to work in the area of cybersecurity and data privacy.

The authors begin by noting that cybersecurity and data privacy “are two of the fastest growing and exciting areas of the law” today. They point out that unlike other subject matters for which laws have been created over several decades, laws and regulations concerning data privacy and cybersecurity are constantly changing and emerging to respond to current issues. The authors assure students who may not have vast technical knowledge that employers “care more about your ability to show your passion for this field than your scientific background.”

The remainder of the article sets forth the author's specific recommendations for students pursuing a career in cybersecurity law. For example, they explain the benefit of taking certain courses, including Emerging Technology, Criminal Procedure, and Insurance Law. They also emphasize the importance of networking. “Networking while in law school is most likely the single most valuable thing a student can do,” the authors write. Finally, the authors advise that students should consider becoming a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP), describing this certification as “so ubiquitous that many employers demand you have it before even considering your resume.”

Ms. Godfrey is a member of Lewis Brisbois’ Data Privacy & Cybersecurity Practice. She possesses the ANSI-accredited CIPP/US credential from the International Association of Privacy Professionals and regularly counsels clients across business sectors as to best practices in information privacy and data security.

Shaun Goodfriend is also a member of the firm's Data Privacy & Cybersecurity Practice. He graduated from William & Mary Law School last year, earning a concentration in intellectual property law. While in law school, he founded the Data Privacy & Cybersecurity Legal Society and served as president of the organization.

Read the full Student Lawyer post here.

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