NYC Gazette

Daniel Ganopolsky, a Straus Scholar majoring in political science at Yeshiva University (YC ’24), recently completed an internship at the New York City Family Court. Supported by a grant from the Straus Center’s Impact Office, Ganopolsky interned during the spring of 2024 and worked under Judge Pamela Sheininger.

Reflecting on his experience, Ganopolsky shared insights into his role and the skills he developed. "My internship at the New York City Family Court for Judge Pamela Sheininger involved administrative and observational tasks, which enabled me to gain a deeper understanding of the legal and social aspects involved in cases related to family law," he said. His responsibilities included assisting court staff with filing paperwork, organizing case materials, and scheduling appointments. He also observed court proceedings related to child custody, child neglect, and adoption cases.

Research played a significant part in his internship. "I assisted the judge with case law research by organizing evidence, contacting other courts, and summarizing large documents and investigative material," Ganopolsky explained. This experience provided him with an in-depth understanding of court procedures and their impact on families. It also offered insights into how judges, attorneys, and social workers interact within the courtroom.

Ganopolsky noted that his research allowed him to analyze how Halakha (Jewish law) might inform or contrast with decisions made in family court regarding Jewish families. The emotional weight of court proceedings was another surprising aspect of his internship. "Witnessing families navigate these difficult situations highlighted the importance of empathy and the availability of meaningful social support within the family court system," he remarked.

The internship affirmed Ganopolsky's desire to uphold court integrity and pursue legal accountability. As a Straus Scholar committed to studying Torah and Western thought, he found that this experience challenged him to reconcile these principles in a real-world setting. He encouraged other Straus Scholars and YU students to pursue similar internships to understand better the legal issues facing families and children within their communities.

Ganopolsky plans to work as a paralegal after graduation before attending law school.