Hon. Frank P. Geraci, Jr.

Segment Synopsis: Geraci grew up in Rochester in an Irish/Catholic neighborhood. He has four sisters, an immigrant father from Italy, and a stay-at-home mom. He loved his neighborhood and had a lively childhood. He graduated from McQuaid Jesuit High School, then went to the University of Dayton in Ohio. He applied his academics to the real world and it began his interest in public service. He wasn't exposed to many lawyers or attorneys growing up. He admired John Kennedy and his inaugural address message.

Keywords: Community Service; Family; Neighborhood; Peers; Role Models; Undergraduate Education; Value of Education

Subjects: EDUCATION; FAMILY HISTORY

Segment Synopsis: Geraci decided to go to Dayton Law School after being influenced from his favorite professor. After taking a year off, he served as a deputy clerk in city court for a year, then returned back to law school. He loved being in the courtroom, and that interested him in civil and criminal trials. Geraci was the first college graduate in his family, but going back to law school was a sad time because his father had passed months before. His family supported and encouraged his decision to go back and continue studying law. He relied on part-time jobs and scholarships to financially support himself.

Keywords: Choice of Law; Criminal Law; Employment / Jobs / Wages; Family; Financial Support; Law Professor; Other Law Schools general

Subjects: EDUCATION; FAMILY HISTORY; LAW

Segment Synopsis: After graduation, Geraci became as assistant district attorney, US Attorney, and a mediator before going into private practice. After more jobs, he became the head of the organized crime drug task force and handled extensive drug cases. He left his role as a prosecutor with the US Attorney's office to become a judge because he formed his own firm with best friend and co-lawyer, John Feldman. They wanted to try out their own litigation. Eventually, they moved to a bigger space and kept expanding. After a few years working together, they split up the practice and applied for other jobs that created a more successful outcome.

Keywords: Being a Lawyer; Choice of Law; Employment / Jobs / Wages; Government jobs; Law Firms; Litigation; Practice; Relationships; Trial Practice

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Segment Synopsis: Geraci made many significant contributions and breakthroughs to the law enforcement. He learned and taught others about the hardships of alcohol and drugs in young cases. He created a program that helped teenagers stay on the right path, and it has been in service for twenty years.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Admiralty Law; Civil Service; Community Involvement; Contributions; Teaching Law

Subjects: LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; TEACHING

Segment Synopsis: Geraci is appointed for life as US District Judge for the Western District of NY by President Obama and named Chief Judge. His personal life is intertwined with his professional career. He goes to the gym every morning, then work, then goes home. He even goes in on Saturdays and Sundays because he is a part of one of the busiest districts. He doesn't let his hours impact the relationship with his family.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Family; Government jobs; Judiciary; Values

Subjects: CAREER: LEGAL; LAW; PERSONAL ISSUES; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Segment Synopsis: Geraci is very active in his community and finds it vital for aspiring lawyers to do the same. He believes that working and influencing youth can prevent dangerous or illegal behavior. Role modeling and mentoring is very important to Geraci. "Word is your bond" is the advice he gives to everyone, including his lawyer son.

Keywords: Accomplishments; Community Involvement; Community Service; Continuing Role; Role Models

Subjects: LAW; PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE; TEACHING

Segment Synopsis: Geraci golfs, cooks, and attempts to learn the guitar. Family and activities keep him busy when he isn't working. He is honored to be recognized by UB and thinks it is encouraging to individuals listening.

Keywords: Family; Relationship with UB Law; Social Life

Subjects: PERSONAL ISSUES