Jake Gilboy ‘20

When Jacob Gilboy enrolled at Widener Law Commonwealth, he was already balancing a full-time career as a high school teacher, serving as department head, and raising a growing family. Now, five years after graduation, he has fully transitioned into private practice as a professional liability defense attorney at Marshall Dennehey.

Gilboy quickly made the shift from education to law after earning his juris doctor in 2020. While he spent some time practicing personal injury law, he has dedicated most of the past four years to professional liability defense. His practice focuses on school leaders' liability, employment law, municipal liability, and civil rights litigation.

“The scope of my practice focuses on, among other things, representing school districts and school leaders in various types of civil litigation,” Gilboy said. “It is nice to see things come full circle.”
His time in education gives him a unique perspective in his legal work. With nearly two decades in the classroom, he understands the challenges school administrators face, which helps him provide informed and strategic representation.

Reflecting on his time at Widener Law Commonwealth, Gilboy emphasized the skills that continue to shape his career.

“Critical legal review and analysis, patience, and attention to detail—skills which are all honed in law school—remain invaluable,” he said.

Managing a demanding workload in law school has also prepared him for the pace of civil litigation.

“Those days have helped me to continue to succeed in a busy and demanding civil litigation practice,” Gilboy said.

“Recognizing what I have accomplished in the past provides a steady baseline reminder when present-day challenges arise.”

Gilboy’s hard work and commitment have not gone unnoticed. He was named a Pennsylvania Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2024 and again in 2025, an honor recognizing top young attorneys.

“These recognitions have meant a great deal, especially coming into the practice of law as a seasoned professional and father of four,” he said.

One of the most unexpected aspects of his legal journey was the strong job market he encountered after graduation.

“I do believe that being a nontraditional law student, balancing many responsibilities, aided in this process,” he said.

Gilboy understands the challenges that come with balancing work, family, and law school. His advice for current or prospective extended division students?

“Most importantly, you must be committed to the cause,” he said. “Secondary to only that is the need for a strong support system.”

Gilboy remains engaged with his Widener Law Commonwealth network and appreciates the connections he made during law school.

“Yes, it is nice to engage with folks on cases or otherwise,” he said.

He also credits the law school’s curriculum with preparing him well for the bar exam.

“I felt very prepared for Barbri prep and the Pennsylvania bar exam thanks to Widener Law Commonwealth,” he said.

Looking ahead, Gilboy hopes to continue building his legal practice and professional reputation while remaining active in his community. He serves on the board of directors for Friends of the Poor in Scranton and enjoys coaching youth sports.

“Widener Law Commonwealth helped me get here,” he said. “And I’m looking forward to what’s next.”

This interview was conducted in Spring 2025.