A Passion for Legal Advocacy: Madeline (Maddy) Abadin ’27 Follows the Mission of the Citizen Lawyer
Growing up in Los Angeles, first-generation American and law student Madeline (Maddy) Abadin ’27 heard plenty of stories from her father about the Cuban revolution and the importance of democracy. Not surprisingly, those stories shaped her future ambition to enter the legal profession.
“His story of overcoming adversity and building a life for our family showed me the importance of the rule of law and has been a constant source of inspiration for me in pursuing law school,” Abadin says.
Leaving LA for the other LA (Louisiana), Abadin attended Tulane University in New Orleans, majoring in Legal Studies in Business & Management. Her path to law school was shaped by both academic and hands-on experiences that confirmed her passion for legal advocacy.
“During my undergraduate studies in Legal Studies in Business, I found myself deeply engaged in case analysis and hypothetical scenarios, fascinated by how subtle factual distinctions could dramatically alter legal outcomes,” Abadin says. “The analytical challenge of applying legal principles to diverse fact patterns sparked my intellectual curiosity and reinforced my desire to pursue a legal career.”
Abadin credits her work as a law clerk at Bet Tzedek Legal Services, the largest pro bono law firm in Los Angeles County, as transforming this academic interest into a concrete mission. Over two summers, she served as a bridge between the legal system and vulnerable community members, primarily Spanish-speaking clients seeking legal assistance.
“This role gave me firsthand exposure to the barriers many face when accessing legal services,” Abadin says. “Whether directing clients to legal staff or connecting them with other pro bono firms throughout Los Angeles, I witnessed how language, economic status, and cultural barriers can significantly impact one’s ability to navigate the legal system effectively.”
Abadin is committed to using her legal education to help build a justice system that truly serves all members of society, regardless of their background or circumstances, in whichever practice of law she pursues. Right now, she is considering something in civil/business litigation or maybe general counsel for a corporation.
No matter what field she chooses, she believes William & Mary Law is the right place to get her there.
“I chose to go to William & Mary Law because the mission of the citizen lawyer aligned with my passion for using the power that comes with a legal education for the good of the world/society, despite what kind of law I may choose to practice,” Abadin says. “I believe that as future lawyers, we have the responsibility to hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, as our decision will implicate others as advocates.”
Abadin also believes that as a first-generation American and child of a Cuban immigrant, she can bring a distinctive lens to the classroom. Growing up in Los Angeles, one of America’s most diverse cities, and later studying in the Deep South, she witnessed firsthand how different communities navigate the legal system and how cultural contexts fundamentally shape their experiences.
“My background has given me unique insight into the ways legal systems can both empower and marginalize vulnerable populations,” Abadin says. “This perspective, combined with my undergraduate studies in Legal Studies and Business at Tulane University, has deepened my understanding of how law intersects with social justice and business interests.”
Community, too, played a strong role in her choice of law school. During Admitted Students Weekend, she noticed that everyone she met was welcoming, supportive, and kind. And the surrounding community was just as interesting. Abadin enjoys walking around/hiking in Williamsburg, Waller Mill Park, and Colonial Williamsburg for a study break. She also likes to listen to true crime podcasts, cycle at the gym, and catch up with friends.
She has also found plenty to do outside the classroom, currently serving as the outreach chair for the Latinx Law Students Association and as a member of the Women’s Law Society. She hopes to join the Public Service Fund this semester and hopefully Law Review during her 2L year. She is also interested in pursuing Moot Court and the Immigration Law Clinic.
“I am excited to get to know more of my classmates and learn about different topics,” she says.”